Next.js is one of the best frameworks based on React that supports full-scale web application development for all sizes of businesses. Its features like server-side rendering and enhanced SEO fueling its popularity. In May 2023, Vercel released Next.js 13.4. This brought with it the stable version of App Router, which allows Next.js developers to use it in production.
However, to employ the abilities of the framework, you have to Hire the best Next.js professionals. The shortage of experienced developers and the hefty cost associated with them make it difficult to hire a developer.
Hiring remote Next.js developers is the best way to leverage the framework’s functionalities. They allow you to access a global talent pool, reduce costs, and maintain your project within the timeline.
How can you select the right Next.js developers for your project? In this blog, we’ll talk about the tips that you should consider.
So, let’s get started with the basic ones.
Determine the Scope of Your Project
This might seem the most prominent step, but still, many businesses failed to do so. According to a report by KPMG, 20% of the 10,000 projects reviewed were unsuccessful in delivering the results anticipated.
Another report from Gartner says the same, 51% of them failed to deliver their benefits targeted.
The data says that the failure of the project is common, and the biggest reason behind it is the unclear scope of the project. So when you design your own software using Next.js emphasize determining the scope of the project.
Here is the list of the factors to consider when defining the scope of your project;
- Establish clear objectives and goals: Be specific about the objectives and goals that you want to achieve with your project.
- Collect project requirements: Involve all your stakeholders to gather input from them. They are the best resources to understand your requirements like your scaling Next.js app should be compatible with both Android and iOS.
- Create Constraints: Also document the information out of your project scope such as the budget for your project and the deadline.
- Get buy-in from stakeholders: Once the project scope is documented, it is reviewed by the stakeholders to ensure they agree with the objectives and constraints.
- Establish a change control process: Be prepared to meet the uncertainties with confidence. Set up a change control process to ensure you can handle the change request.
Identify the Specific Skills Needed (e.g., Front-end, Back-end, Full-stack)
This is another important factor to consider. When you hire the best Next.js programmer, it is a must to have a deep understanding of their skills. Here are skills that you can consider;
1. Front-end Development Skills
Front-end developers focus on the user interface and user experience of the application. They work on the visual aspects and ensure that the application is responsive and user-friendly.
- HTML/CSS: Command in HTML and CSS is a must for developing structured and styled web pages.
- JavaScript: Expert knowledge of JavaScript is required for building interactive and dynamic web applications.
- React.js: Since Next.js is built on top of React, an understanding of React.js is necessary for front-end development.
- Responsive design: Ability to develop responsive designs that function perfectly across various devices and screen sizes.
- UI/UX design: Knowledge of user interface and user experience design principles to build intuitive and captivating interfaces.
2. Back-end Development Skills
Back-end developers manage the server-side logic, databases, and application integration. They ensure that the application works appropriately and successfully behind the scenes.
- Node.js: Expertise in Node.js is necessary for server-side development with Next.js.
- API development: Experience in building and integrating RESTful APIs and GraphQL for data exchange between the server and client.
- Database management: Knowledge of databases such as MongoDB, PostgreSQL, or MySQL for storing and managing data.
- Authentication and authorization: Knowledge of authentication and authorization mechanisms to secure the application.
- Server-Side Rendering (SSR): Familiarity with server-side rendering processes to enhance performance and SEO.
3. Full-stack Development Skills
Full-stack developers have both front-end and back-end skills. They can manage the entire development process, making them adaptable to projects that need a broad skill set.
- Combination of front-end and back-end skills: Full-stack developers should have a good knowledge of both front-end and back-end technologies cited earlier.
- DevOps: Knowledge of DevOps practices, including continuous integration and continuous deployment (CI/CD), to simplify the development process.
- Version control: Expertise in version control systems like Git to manage code changes and collaborate with other developers.
- Problem-solving: Robust problem-solving skills to handle challenges that occur during development.
Communication: Effective communication skills to work with team members and stakeholders, particularly in a remote work environment.
4. Set a Realistic Timeline
The realistic timeline has an important role in not only setting the expectations for the stakeholders but also helping in effective resource allocations. Several factors influence the timeline such as;
- Complexity of the project: As a general rule of thumb, the more complex the project, the more time it will need to get done. Complex projects have involved advanced features, complex designs, and numerous integrations.
- Features and Integrations: The number and complexity of features and integrations needed can adversely affect the timeline. For example, integrating third-party APIs, payment gateways, and unique functionalities will need more time.
- Implementations: Implementing specific technologies, frameworks, and tools can impact the timeline. For instance, including server-side rendering, authentication mechanisms, and responsive design might take longer.
- Resource Availability: The availability of dedicated Next.js developers, designers, and other resources can affect the timeline. Limited availability of key resources causes delays.
- Testing and Quality Assurance: Rigorous testing and quality assurance are a must to secure a bug-free Next.js web application development. This phase can take a significant amount of time, depending on the complexity of the project.
If you’re sure about hiring Next.js developers but unsure how to collaborate with IT staff augmentation agencies or development partners, this guide helps you augment your team with IT experts. Learn when and how to do it effectively. Augmenting Your Team with IT Experts: When and How to Do It?
How to Create a Timeline that Aligns with Your Project Requirements?
Here are the steps that will you create a timeline that aligns with your project requirements;
- Define Your Hiring Needs: Clearly outline the skills and expertise needed for your project. Specify whether you need to hire front-end developer, back-end, or full-stack developers. This choice helps you identify the right candidates and makes hiring easier.
- Plan the Hiring Phases: Break down the hiring process into steps, such as job posting, candidate screening, interviews, and onboarding. Set aside time for each phase to guarantee a successful hiring.
- Integrate Hiring Timeline with Project Milestones: Align the hiring timeline with your project milestones. Ensure that you have the required resources in place before beginning each phase of the project. This will allow you to sidestep uncertainties and stay on schedule.
- Set Buffer Times: Have buffer times in your timeline to account for unanticipated uncertainties and challenges. This will deliver versatility and assist you in managing any unexpected issues that may appear during the project.
- Regularly Review and Adjust: Regularly monitor the progress of the project and the hiring process. Regularly review the timeline and apply adjustments as required to ensure that the project is on track.
Why Is Hiring Next.js Developers From CyanicLab A Good Idea?
Hiring a remote Next.js developer is the best way to access the global talent pool, cost-saving, and flexibility to pave the way to success. CyanicLab is a renowned Next.js development company helping both startups and enterprises alike. We have a team of highly experienced Next.js developers to take on any challenge. Whether you want to improve the existing application or want to build one from scratch, we’re your go-to resource for scalable, and bug-free applications.
Let’s connect with us for an obligation-free consultation to find out how we can employ Next.js in your project to build next-gen products.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much does it cost to hire a Next.js developer?
Next.js developer cost is subject to multiple factors. From the engagement model to the complexity of the project to the level of experience, each has an important role in determining the cost. The best way to get free estimation of the cost is to consult with a Next.js development company like CyanicLab.
2. What are the benefits of hiring a remote Next.js developer?
Hiring a remote Next.js developer enables you to tap into the global talent pool, cost-feasibility, and scalability to increase team size or reduce according to the needs. Additionally, remote developers often have experience working on geographically dispersed teams, making them adaptable to different work environments and communication styles.
3. How long does it take to hire a remote Next.js developer?
On average, the timeframe for hiring remote Next.js developers is anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. The timeframe is influenced by factors such as finding a IT staff augmentation company, screening resumes, conducting interviews, and completing the onboarding process.