What Questions Should You Ask Before Hiring a SharePoint Developer?

Introduction: Why Hiring the Right SharePoint Developer Matters

Your business runs on information. Every day, your teams create documents, manage projects, share updates, and collaborate across departments. When that flow of information becomes scattered, slow, or difficult to manage, productivity suffers and growth stalls. That is where SharePoint comes in.

Microsoft SharePoint is one of the most widely used platforms in the world for business collaboration, document management, and internal communication. Thousands of companies rely on it every day to store files, build internal websites, automate workflows, and keep teams connected. But here is the truth: SharePoint is only as powerful as the person who sets it up for you.

Hiring the wrong SharePoint developer can lead to wasted budgets, missed deadlines, poor security, and a system that simply does not work the way your business needs it to. On the other hand, the right developer builds something that feels tailor-made for your team and delivers real, measurable results.

So before you post a job listing or sign a contract, take a step back. This guide walks you through the most important questions to ask a SharePoint developer before making your decision. Whether you are a business owner, a project manager, or a decision-maker with no technical background, this article gives you the confidence to make a smart, informed choice.

What Does a SharePoint Developer Do?

Before diving into the questions, it helps to understand what a SharePoint developer actually does. In simple terms, a SharePoint developer builds, customises, and maintains SharePoint environments for businesses.

Think of SharePoint as a large, flexible office building. The building itself is Microsoft’s product. But a developer is the architect and interior designer who decides where the rooms go, how the doors connect, what each space is used for, and how everything flows together to serve your specific business needs.

A skilled SharePoint developer can:

Build intranet portals where your employees can access news, resources, and company updates from a single place.

Create document management systems that allow teams to store, search, and collaborate on files without confusion or version conflicts.

Design custom workflows that automate repetitive tasks like approvals, notifications, and form submissions.

Integrate SharePoint with other tools your business already uses, such as Microsoft Teams, Power BI, Dynamics 365, or third-party applications.

Set up role-based access controls so the right people can see the right information and sensitive data stays protected.

Migrate data from older systems into SharePoint without losing any files or history.

Maintain and update the platform so it continues to run smoothly as your business grows.

Understanding this scope helps you evaluate whether a developer has the range of skills your project actually requires.

Why Businesses Hire SharePoint Developers

Many companies start using SharePoint through their Microsoft 365 subscription without fully realising its potential. They use it as a basic file storage tool, much like a shared drive. But that barely scratches the surface of what SharePoint can do.

Businesses bring in dedicated SharePoint developers when they are ready to unlock real value from the platform. Here are some of the most common reasons companies decide to hire:

They need a professional intranet that serves as the digital headquarters for their company.

Their document management is out of control, with files scattered across email, desktop folders, and shared drives.

They want to automate manual processes that are eating up employee time and causing errors.

They are going through a digital transformation and need SharePoint to be the backbone of their new infrastructure.

They have outgrown their current system and need a scalable, enterprise-grade solution.

They want to improve collaboration between departments, especially for remote or hybrid teams.

They need SharePoint to connect with other software systems in their technology stack.

If any of these situations sound familiar, you are in the right place. Now let us get into the questions that will help you find the developer who can deliver what you need.

Important Questions to Ask Before Hiring a SharePoint Developer

The following questions are organised into key areas that every business should evaluate. Do not feel pressured to ask all of them at once. Think of this as a checklist that you work through during your conversations with potential candidates or development companies.

1. How Much Experience Do You Have with SharePoint Projects?

Experience is the foundation of everything. A developer might know SharePoint’s features on paper, but real-world project experience teaches them how to handle unexpected challenges, manage client expectations, and deliver results on time.

When exploring this area, go deeper than just the number of years. Ask the following:

How many SharePoint projects have you completed from start to finish?

Can you show me examples of past work or a portfolio?

Have you worked with businesses in my industry before?

What is the largest or most complex project you have delivered?

A developer who has genuinely worked across industries and project types will have sharper instincts for problem-solving. Ask for case studies or references from previous clients. A confident, competent developer will have no hesitation sharing them.

2. Do You Work with SharePoint Online or SharePoint On-Premises?

This question matters more than most people realise. SharePoint comes in two main versions, and understanding the difference is essential for choosing the right developer.

SharePoint Online is cloud-based. It is part of Microsoft 365 and is hosted entirely by Microsoft. Your team can access it from anywhere, on any device. Updates happen automatically, and you do not need to manage any physical servers. This is the more modern and increasingly popular option, especially for small to mid-sized businesses.

SharePoint On-Premises means the software is installed and managed on your company’s own servers. This gives you more control over your data and allows for deeper customisation, but it also requires more maintenance and technical overhead. Large enterprises or organisations with strict data residency requirements often prefer this option.

Make sure your developer has strong expertise in the version that fits your situation. Ideally, look for someone who is comfortable with both, especially if you are planning a migration from on-premises to the cloud in the future.

3. What Custom SharePoint Development Skills Do You Bring to the Table?

Out-of-the-box SharePoint is useful, but most businesses need custom solutions built specifically for their workflows. This is where the developer’s technical skills become critical.

Key custom development capabilities you should ask about include:

SPFx (SharePoint Framework): This is the modern way to build custom web parts and extensions for SharePoint. It is the standard approach for SharePoint Online development. A developer without SPFx experience is working with outdated methods.

Power Automate: This is Microsoft’s workflow automation tool that connects seamlessly with SharePoint. It can automate approval processes, send notifications, and trigger actions across different systems.

Power Apps: Custom applications that integrate directly with SharePoint, allowing businesses to build forms and tools tailored to their specific processes.

REST APIs: These are the technical bridges that allow SharePoint to communicate with other software systems. A developer who understands APIs can connect SharePoint to almost any other platform.

PowerShell Scripting: Used for administration tasks, bulk operations, and automating repetitive management activities within SharePoint.

Do not be intimidated by the technical terms. Simply ask the developer to explain what each of these means in plain language. Their ability to communicate complex ideas simply is itself a sign of how well they will work with your non-technical team.

4. How Do You Handle Microsoft 365 and Third-Party Integrations?

SharePoint does not live in isolation. It sits at the centre of the Microsoft 365 ecosystem, which includes Teams, Outlook, OneDrive, Power BI, and Dynamics 365. A truly capable SharePoint developer knows how to make all these tools work together seamlessly.

Ask the developer:

How have you integrated SharePoint with Microsoft Teams for communication and collaboration?

Have you connected SharePoint with Power BI to create live dashboards and reports?

Can you link SharePoint with CRM systems like Salesforce or Dynamics 365?

What experience do you have with third-party tools such as DocuSign, Slack, or project management platforms?

The goal is to find a developer who sees SharePoint as part of your broader digital workplace, not as a standalone product. A well-integrated system saves time, reduces errors, and makes your entire technology investment work harder.

5. How Do You Approach Security and Data Protection?

Data is one of your most valuable business assets. A poorly configured SharePoint environment can expose sensitive information to the wrong people, create compliance risks, or leave your business vulnerable to security breaches. This is not an area where you want to cut corners.

Security-related questions to ask:

How do you manage user permissions and access control in SharePoint?

How do you ensure that sensitive documents are only visible to authorised employees?

What experience do you have with compliance frameworks such as GDPR, HIPAA, or ISO standards?

How do you handle SharePoint security audits and monitor for unusual activity?

What is your approach to data backup and disaster recovery?

A seasoned developer will have clear, confident answers to these questions. If a candidate is vague or dismissive about security, treat that as a warning sign. Data breaches are costly, and prevention is always cheaper than recovery.

6. What Is Your Project Communication and Management Process?

Technical skills are only half the equation. How a developer communicates and manages a project often determines whether it succeeds or fails. You need someone who keeps you informed, listens to your feedback, and delivers on their commitments.

Questions to ask about process and communication:

What project management methodology do you follow? (Agile, Scrum, Waterfall, or a hybrid approach?)

How often will you provide updates on project progress?

What tools do you use for task tracking and communication? (Examples include Jira, Trello, Asana, or Microsoft Planner.)

How do you handle scope changes or unexpected challenges during a project?

Who will be my main point of contact throughout the engagement?

The right developer treats your project as a partnership. They keep you in the loop, explain things clearly, and make sure you feel confident in every decision. Poor communication is one of the top reasons technology projects go over budget and over deadline.

7. Do You Offer Support and Maintenance After the Project Is Delivered?

Your SharePoint environment will need attention after launch. Microsoft regularly updates SharePoint Online, and those updates can sometimes affect custom features. Your business will also evolve, and your SharePoint solution needs to grow with it.

Ask about post-launch support:

Do you offer a support and maintenance retainer after project delivery?

How do you handle bug fixes or issues that arise after launch?

What is your typical response time for urgent support requests?

Do you provide training for our internal team so they can manage basic tasks themselves?

How do you handle Microsoft updates that affect custom SharePoint functionality?

A developer who walks away after delivery and leaves you to fend for yourself is not a long-term partner. Look for someone who offers ongoing support packages and has a structured process for keeping your SharePoint environment healthy and up to date.

SharePoint Developer Pricing: What to Expect and How to Budget

One of the most practical questions businesses ask is: how much does it cost to hire a SharePoint developer? The answer depends on several factors, including the developer’s location, experience level, the complexity of your project, and whether you are hiring a freelancer, an in-house employee, or a specialised development company.

Common SharePoint Developer Pricing Models

Hourly Rate Model:

Developers charge by the hour for their time. This works well for smaller projects or ongoing support work where the total scope is difficult to define upfront. Hourly rates can vary significantly depending on the developer’s expertise and geographic location.

Fixed-Price Project Model:

A fixed price is agreed upon before the project begins. This model gives you budget certainty and is ideal for projects with a clearly defined scope. The developer commits to delivering specific features for a set total cost.

Dedicated Developer Model (Monthly Retainer):

You hire a developer on a full-time or part-time basis for a monthly fee. This is popular with businesses that need ongoing SharePoint development, want a consistent team member, and prefer a predictable monthly cost. It is one of the most flexible and cost-effective options for companies building or scaling SharePoint environments over time.

When it comes to affordable and transparent SharePoint developer pricing, Iqra Technology stands out as a trusted choice. Their pricing models are designed to be competitive and accessible, making professional SharePoint development achievable for businesses of all sizes, without compromising on quality.

You can explore their detailed pricing options and hiring packages at iqratechnology.com/hire-sharepoint-developer/. Whether you need a developer for a short-term project or a long-term partnership, their team offers flexible engagement models built around your specific business goals.

When comparing pricing, focus on value rather than just cost. A cheaper developer who delivers poor results will cost you far more in the long run through rework, delays, and lost productivity. Look for transparent pricing, clear deliverables, and a team that has a track record of delivering quality work on time.

Understanding Your Hiring Options

When it comes to hiring a SharePoint developer, businesses typically have three main options. Each has its own advantages and trade-offs.

Freelancers:

Individual contractors who work independently. They can be a good fit for small, clearly scoped projects. However, they may lack the support structure, availability, and range of skills that a team brings. If your freelancer becomes unavailable mid-project, you could be left in a difficult position.

In-House Employees:

Hiring a full-time SharePoint developer in-house gives you dedicated attention and complete alignment with your business. However, it comes with significant overhead, including salary, benefits, onboarding, and the time it takes to recruit the right person. It is typically the most expensive option.

Specialised Development Companies:

Partnering with a dedicated SharePoint development company gives you access to a team of experts with diverse skills, established processes, and proven delivery track records. Companies like Iqra Technology specialise exclusively in Microsoft technologies, which means their entire knowledge base and experience is focused on delivering the best possible SharePoint solutions. This option often provides the best balance of quality, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness.

Common Mistakes Businesses Make When Hiring a SharePoint Developer

Even with the right intentions, businesses often make avoidable hiring mistakes that lead to project failures. Here are the most common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

Hiring based on price alone: The cheapest option is rarely the best option. Underpriced developers often cut corners, miss deadlines, or deliver work that requires expensive fixing later. Focus on value and track record, not just the lowest quote.

Skipping the portfolio review: Always ask to see examples of real work. A developer who cannot share past projects may not have the experience they claim. Case studies, live sites, and client references are essential.

Not defining the project scope clearly: Entering a development engagement without a clear brief leads to misunderstandings, scope creep, and inflated costs. Before hiring, document exactly what you need, including features, timelines, and expected outcomes.

Ignoring cultural and communication fit: Technical skills are important, but so is how well the developer communicates and collaborates with your team. A developer who struggles to explain their work in plain language will create ongoing friction.

Overlooking post-launch needs: Many businesses focus entirely on delivery and forget to plan for what happens after. Who will manage updates? Who will fix bugs? Who will train new staff? Make sure these questions are answered before you sign any agreement.

Not checking Microsoft certifications: Microsoft certifications demonstrate a developer’s commitment to keeping their skills current. Relevant certifications include Microsoft 365 Developer, SharePoint Application Development, and Power Platform certifications.

Avoiding these mistakes does not require deep technical expertise. It simply requires asking the right questions, taking your time, and choosing a partner who understands your business as well as they understand the technology.

Conclusion: Make the Right Choice the First Time

Choosing the right SharePoint developer is not just a hiring decision, it is a business decision that will shape how your organisation works, collaborates, and grows for years to come. The questions covered in this guide are not technical tests. They are conversation starters that reveal how experienced, transparent, and aligned a developer truly is with your goals.

As we explored at the start of this article, your business depends on the smooth flow of information. A well-built SharePoint environment powered by a skilled developer can transform that flow into a competitive advantage, saving time, reducing errors, improving collaboration, and giving your team the tools they need to do their best work.

Take the questions in this guide into your next conversation with a potential developer. Pay attention not just to what they say, but how they say it. Confidence, clarity, and genuine interest in your business are the hallmarks of a developer who will deliver real results.

Ready to Improve Your Business Operations with SharePoint Development Services?

If your business needs better collaboration, secure document management, and streamlined workflows, professional SharePoint Development Services can help you build a more efficient digital workplace. A customized SharePoint solution allows teams to share information easily, automate business processes, and improve communication across the organization.

With the right SharePoint Development Services, your company can create scalable business solutions tailored to your operational needs using Microsoft 365 technologies. From custom portals and workflow automation to SharePoint integration and migration, the right development approach helps businesses work smarter and grow faster.

Contact Iqra Technology today to speak with a SharePoint expert and take the first step toward building a more connected, productive, and future-ready business environment.

Internal Link References:

Hire SharePoint Developer | SharePoint Development Services

What Questions Should You Ask Before Hiring a SharePoint Developer