How to work with freelancers in an area you know nothing about
A nonprofit unicorn’s perspective on what you ask for vs. what you need.This article was written by featured writer Janice Chan.
To this day, I remember is what it felt like to ask a question, anticipate getting some super expensive or horribly complicated answer, and get laughed at by the web developer. (see accurate reenactment gif below).
The first time I worked on a website redesign, it was not pretty. Not the design of the site but the process. I had copy and pictures and figured we’d need to review layouts. So the button that leads to the donation page should be — wait. Who is making sure the donation page will work and be connected to all the right accounts after we change web hosts? Does the vendor do this? Will the project still be on time? What on earth is a merchant account or payment processor and why do we need two?!
Thankfully, I’ve worked with many more freelance developers (graphic designers, printers, consultants) who listened to my fumbling questions and said, “I hear that you’re concerned about or interested in X, and I can answer that, but I think the question you really want to be asking is Z.”
Here’s how you can make sure you’re asking the right questions, & know you’re dealing with great professionals who will help you and your team realize it’s goal.
