Are you a non-technical founder with a big idea, ready to turn your vision into reality? If you’ve decided on Bubble.io as your platform of choice, congratulations; you’ve picked a powerful no-code tool to build your product.

But now comes the difficult part: finding the right developer.

Hiring the right Bubble developer is a critical step, and it’s not just about finding someone who can “build things.” You need someone who understands your vision, translates it into a well-structured app, and delivers a product that meets your business goals.

In this 3-part series, we’ll explore the key factors to consider when choosing a Bubble.io developer. In Part 1, let’s focus on the foundational elements: technical skills, experience, and cost.

1. What Technical Skills Should You Be Looking For?

Bubble.io is unique. While it abstracts traditional coding, it still requires a developer with deep knowledge of its ecosystem to create a robust, scalable app.

What to Look For:

• Proficiency with Bubble Workflows: Your developer should excel in creating efficient workflows, which are the backbone of any Bubble app.

• Database Expertise: Look for someone who understands Bubble’s database structure, including how to handle relationships, optimise queries, and ensure smooth app performance. This is different to traditional databases structures.

• Integration Knowledge: Your developer should know how to connect Bubble with external APIs and third-party tools to extend its functionality.

• Data Security Awareness: Security is crucial, especially when handling sensitive user data. A good developer knows how to safeguard, using Bubble's privacy framework, your app against potential vulnerabilities.

• Efficiency: Because Bubble.io billing is metered, this means every action in the app is chargeable. This means you need a developer who understands this billing model and understands how to create efficient bubble apps.

Why It Matters:

A technically proficient developer can fully leverage Bubble’s capabilities to build a well-functioning, scalable app tailored to your specific needs. Without this expertise, you risk ending up with an inefficient, buggy, or insecure product.

2. How Important Is Experience?

In the world of Bubble development, experience speaks volumes. A seasoned developer brings a wealth of knowledge and problem-solving ability to the table.

What to Look For:

• A Solid Portfolio: Check out the developer’s previous work. Have they built apps similar to what you envision? Look for examples of user interfaces, workflows, and functionality that align with your project.

• Relevant Industry Knowledge: Developers with experience in your industry will have a better understanding of the challenges and user needs you’re facing. If they have worked as a traditional developer all the better. They will have a broad understanding of the wider technical pitfalls.

• Positive Client Feedback: Search for reviews or testimonials that highlight their ability to deliver quality results.

Why It Matters:

Experience ensures the developer is familiar with the nuances of Bubble and knows how to build efficiently while avoiding common pitfalls. An experienced developer is also more likely to anticipate your needs and provide innovative solutions.

3. What Should You Consider When It Comes to Cost?

Budgeting is a key part of any project, but when hiring a Bubble developer, it’s important to think about value, not just cost.

What to Look For:

• Balance Between Cost and Experience: A highly skilled developer might charge more upfront, but they often work faster and deliver higher-quality results. On the other hand, a less experienced developer might seem cheaper but could take longer or require more revisions.

• Project Value: Think about the developer’s contribution to your project’s success, not just their hourly rate. A great developer can add long-term value to your business and understand your vision.

Why It Matters:

Paying for quality can save you time and money in the long run. A more efficient developer will complete tasks faster and build an app that’s easier to maintain, ultimately reducing your total cost of ownership.

Final Thoughts:

Finding the right Bubble.io developer involves more than just technical aptitude—it’s about aligning skills, experience, and cost with your project’s needs. By focusing on these key factors, you’ll be well on your way to hiring a developer who can turn your vision into a successful, high-quality product.

Stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll discuss whether to hire a freelancer or an agency and explore the importance of problem-solving skills in a Bubble developer.