Choose an agency that can show relevant past work, explains its process in plain language, gives a clear scope and price for a first phase, agrees in writing who owns the code, and communicates on a regular schedule.
Ten questions to ask
Ask every agency on your shortlist:
- Can you show relevant projects, and can I speak to a past client?
- Who exactly will work on my project?
- How do you handle requirements and changes?
- Can I see something working early, not only at the end?
- What is the price for a small first phase?
- Who owns the code and the data?
- How do you test and secure what you build?
- What happens after launch: support, updates, hosting?
- How often will we talk, and who is my contact?
- What happens if we want to stop or switch agencies?
Warning signs
Be careful when an agency cannot show any real work, promises a fixed outcome without understanding your process, avoids talking about ownership, or pushes for a large upfront payment.
How AUZMS answers
We work in short cycles, show working software early, quote a fixed price for a first version and agree ownership in the contract. Ask us the same ten questions.
Questions we hear a lot
Should I pick the cheapest agency?
Rarely. Compare scope and what is included. A low price with unclear scope often costs more later.
Is a small agency a risk?
Not by itself. Check proof of work, references and how knowledge is documented, so you are never dependent on one person.