The Questions That Reveal Everything
We've worked with dozens of agencies as partners and clients. We've learned what to ask.
Here are the 10 questions that matter most.
1. "What's your experience with [our specific stack]?"
Generic "we know React" doesn't cut it.
Ask about their specific tech stack. If they're vague, they're not experts.
2. "Can I talk to your developers directly?"
If they say no, run.
The people building your product should be reachable.
3. "How do you handle scope changes?"
Good answer: "We document changes, assess impact, and adjust timeline/budget with your approval."
Bad answer: "We handle it as it comes up."
4. "What's your testing process?"
Zero tests = expect bugs. Nobody has zero tests on purpose. They just didn't plan for it.
5. "Show me a live product in your portfolio."
Not screenshots. Not mockups. Real products you can use.
6. "What happens after launch?"
Maintenance, support, updates. What does that look like?
7. "How do you communicate?"
Daily updates? Weekly syncs? Async only?
Match expectations upfront.
8. "Can you meet [specific deadline]?"
Reality check: "We can try" is not "Yes."
9. "What do you do when things go wrong?"
Bugs, delays, misunderstandings. How do they handle crises?
10. "Would you work with us again?"
Ask their past clients. Actually call them.
The Red Flags
- Won't answer questions directly
- Instant quotes without discovery
- Can't show live products
- No testing process
- Developer access denied
- Vague about process
The Checklist
Before signing:
- Live product demoed
- Developer access confirmed
- Testing process documented
- Communication expectations aligned
- Scope change process clear
- Post-launch support defined
- References called
Choosing an agency is hiring a partner. Ask these questions.
