Navigating the Challenges of Finding a Reliable Developer as a Non-Tech Founder
As a non-technical founder in the UK, my journey to find a trustworthy developer has proven to be far more difficult than I anticipated. Over the past few months, I’ve had the experience of working with three different developers, and unfortunately, this quest has been fraught with challenges.
My first developer seemingly vanished after just a few weeks, leaving me stranded and with little to show for the time invested. The second developer delivered a project that was barely functional, highlighting a lack of attention to detail and quality. Lastly, I encountered a developer who appeared disinterested in creating a lasting product, focusing instead on completing tasks quickly without regard for long-term objectives. It felt as though they were more concerned with crossing items off a to-do list than crafting a meaningful solution.
While I may not possess a technical background, I have dedicated significant time to learning the fundamentals of development. This knowledge enables me to manage and comprehend the projects at hand, but what I truly seek is a dependable developer—someone who is genuinely passionate about building something of value and who will remain engaged beyond just a few quick tasks.
If you’re a founder or small business owner who has faced similar challenges in hiring a developer, I would greatly appreciate your insights. What strategies or tips can you share to help streamline the process of finding a great developer who aligns with my vision? Your advice could be invaluable as I continue this search.
One Comment
Thank you for sharing your experience—it’s a challenge many non-tech founders can relate to. One strategy that has helped some entrepreneurs is building relationships within communities such as local tech meetups, coding bootcamps, or online platforms like GitHub and Stack Overflow. Engaging with developers in these environments can give you a better sense of their passion, attention to quality, and commitment beyond just completing tasks.
Additionally, consider phased approaches like starting with small, clearly defined projects or milestones before scaling up. This allows you to evaluate a developer’s work style, communication, and reliability firsthand. Building a network of trusted freelance or agency partners, with proven track records and transparent processes, can also reduce the risks of encountering unreliable freelancers.
Lastly, don’t underestimate the value of clear documentation of your project needs and expectations—this helps ensure alignment from the outset and filters out those who lack the necessary dedication or skills. Patience and persistence are key, and leveraging your growing technical understanding will empower you to better manage and select developers aligned with your vision. Wishing you success in finding the right partner for your journey!