Hiring a mobile app developer is one of the most crucial decisions for any business or startup looking to launch a successful digital product. A skilled developer can bring your vision to life with speed, quality, and precision — while the wrong hire can cost you time, money, and momentum.
So, how do you determine whether a mobile app developer is truly good before you make that hire?
Let’s break it down.
1. Evaluate Their Portfolio — Not Just for Looks, but for Functionality
A credible mobile app developer should have a strong portfolio of completed projects. But don’t stop at how attractive the apps look — dig deeper:
- Are the apps live on the App Store or Google Play?
- Do the apps function smoothly and load quickly?
- Are they rated positively by users?
- Do they solve real problems or meet specific business goals?
Pro tip: Try downloading and using a few of the apps they’ve built to see the experience firsthand.
2. Check for Industry Experience
A good developer may be technically skilled, but a great developer understands your industry and business model. Ask yourself:
- Have they built similar apps in your niche (e.g., on-demand, healthcare, fintech, eCommerce)?
- Do they understand user behaviors and regulatory requirements in your field?
If they have relevant domain experience, they’re more likely to build a solution that resonates with your audience.
3. Read Client Reviews and Testimonials
What past clients say matters.
- Look for verified reviews on platforms like Clutch, Upwork, or Google.
- Check if their testimonials include project outcomes, challenges, and how the developer responded to feedback.
- Reach out to previous clients if possible to ask about their experience working with the developer.
Good developers leave behind happy, long-term clients who are willing to vouch for them.
4. Assess Their Communication and Transparency
Before any code is written, pay close attention to how they communicate. Good developers:
- Respond promptly and clearly
- Ask thoughtful questions about your business goals
- Offer suggestions instead of just saying “yes” to everything
- Provide clear project timelines and expectations
- Use collaboration tools like Slack, Jira, Trello, or ClickUp for updates
Poor communication is one of the top reasons app projects fail. Don’t ignore red flags.
5. Test Their Technical and Problem-Solving Skills
If you’re hiring an in-house developer or working with a freelance partner, consider giving them a small paid test task to evaluate:
- Code quality and efficiency
- Ability to follow instructions and meet deadlines
- Creativity in solving unexpected problems
If you’re hiring an agency, ask them to walk you through a technical case study and explain their development process.
6. Ask About Their Development Process
The best mobile app developers follow a structured development approach. A good answer to “What’s your process like?” should include:
- Discovery and Requirements Gathering
- Wireframing and UI/UX Design
- Agile Development Sprints
- QA Testing and Bug Fixing
- Launch and Post-Launch Support
If they can’t walk you through a clear process, that’s a red flag.
7. Ensure They Offer Post-Launch Support
Mobile apps need updates, maintenance, bug fixes, and optimizations after launch. A good developer doesn’t disappear after the app goes live. Ask:
- Do you offer support after launch?
- What does your maintenance package include?
- How quickly do you respond to issues?
You want a partner, not a hit-and-run coder.
8. Evaluate Their Passion and Curiosity
Technology changes fast. The best developers are constantly learning and innovating. Look for someone who:
- Is excited about new tools, platforms, or technologies
- Understands current UI/UX trends
- Can explain why they chose certain frameworks or tools for your project
Passion for quality and innovation is hard to fake — and easy to spot.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Just Hire a Developer — Choose a Partner
A good mobile app developer goes beyond code. They think strategically, communicate transparently, deliver consistently, and care about the success of your business.
If you’re looking for a development partner who checks all these boxes and more, Appfur is here to help. With years of experience building world-class apps for startups and enterprises across industries, we bring a unique blend of technical mastery, business insight, and creative passion to every project.
Thinking of building a mobile app?
Contact Appfur today for a free strategy session, and let’s build something remarkable together.
If you found this post valuable and you're serious about turning your app idea into a real product, let’s take the next step together. At Appfur, we specialize in transforming early-stage concepts into fully functional, user-focused applications.
We’re offering a free 30-minute strategy session to help you:
- Validate your app idea with an expert
- Identify the fastest, most cost-effective path to launch
- Get a clear, actionable plan tailored to your goals
No hard pitches. No fluff. Just real value.
Click the link below to schedule your free call — spots are limited each week.
