You have a bold idea and know how it will help your community or grow your business. But when you think about the technical side of things and how to hire an app developer, you feel stuck.
For many innovators and organization leaders, the search for a technical partner is the most intimidating part of the journey. You might worry about being overcharged, overwhelmed by technical terms, or ending up with a product you can’t use.
If you are wondering how to hire an app developer without getting lost in translation, you are not alone. This guide strips away the jargon to help you find a partner who is transparent, empathetic, and right for your specific needs.
Know What You Need (It’s Less Than You Think)
A common misconception is that you need a 50-page technical specification document before you can even talk to a developer. This often leaves founders feeling immobilized.
In reality, you just need a clear concept. Look for a developer who offers support during the ideation and concept generation stage. The right partner won’t expect you to have all the answers; they will help you refine your bold ideas into a concrete plan.
Hire an App Developer vs. Hire a Big Agency
When you type “hire a mobile app developer” into Google, you usually find two options: massive agencies or independent freelancers.
- Agencies: They have large teams, but they often come with high overhead costs and can feel impersonal.
- Freelance App Developers: This is often the better route for startups and non-profits. A freelancer offers a direct line of communication.
At Bessa, I focus on being both creative and logical, keeping services empathetic and inclusive. You aren’t just an account number; we are building this together.
The “Must-Ask” Questions
To ensure you are hiring a partner who can deliver custom cross-platform solutions, ask these three questions during your initial chat:
“Do you build for both iOS and Android?” Avoid developers who want to charge you double to build two separate apps. Modern mobile app development services should include cross-platform development (iOS, Android, and the web) to expand your digital presence efficiently.
“What happens after the app is built?” Many developers write the code and disappear. Look for someone who offers an end-to-end process, including App Store distribution (handling Apple and Google submissions) and basic ASO (App Store Optimization), so people can actually find your app.
“Can you explain this without the jargon?” If a developer hides behind “jargon walls,” run. A professional partner should always be easy to understand.
Look for Empathy, Not Just Code
Finally, hire someone who cares about the purpose of your app, not just the code.
Whether you are an entrepreneur scaling a solution, an organization improving internal tools, or a community fostering connection, your developer should share your values of innovation and curiosity.
The Bottom Line
Finding a developer doesn’t have to be a scary process. It should be the exciting first step toward launching your vision.
I make the mobile app development process feel non-intimidating. I offer an end-to-end process, from ideation to app distribution, ensuring your bold idea becomes a reality.
Your app idea is great. Now let’s build it.







