So you need to hire a Drupal developer. Should be a straightforward process, right? Not necessarily.
The first step in hiring a Drupal developer is determining exactly what you are looking for. The term Drupal developer encompasses a wide range of skills.
Drupal is an open-source content management system for websites with code written in PHP. It is a complex platform. Each developer will have strengths and weaknesses when it comes to areas such as developing modules, custom themes and building sites. Each requires different skill sets.
What to do before hiring a Drupal developer
Before you hire a Drupal developer, you need to determine what strengths the candidate you hire needs to have and target those skills. Is the candidate familiar with your Drupal version? What modules has the candidate worked on? A developer should have a curious mind to create unique solutions. Make sure to check a candidate’s innovative skills.
You then need to should check to see if the candidates you are considering have any specific certifications required for your project. The Acquia certification shows a developer’s proficiency in a particular area of the Drupal platform. You also want a candidate proficient in third-party application integration.
You should make sure that the developer is comfortable working on the latest version of Drupal and has the skills to provide regular maintenance and updates for support post projects, or to address any issues that were to occur during the project. How much experience do they have? The more versions the candidate has worked with, the better they’ll understand Drupal’s complexities.
A Drupal developer must be able to adapt
Make sure the candidate you are hiring is willing and able to learn because the field is always evolving. A Drupal developer also must be able to adapt to your business needs and have good communication skills. Expert skills are no good if the person you hire can’t understand what you want.
So what to look for when hiring a Drupal developer? Look for a candidate that has the skills that fit what you are looking for and a personality that fits in with your team.
Dojo Creative is a web, print, branding and digital marketing company that can help your business if it needs help with Drupal development.