Whether you're looking for an individual developer to help you with your software needs, or are shopping around for a software development firm for a large project, there are a few things you want to look for before making your choice.First of all make sure that your developer can meet with you face to face on a regular basis to discuss the project. If your developer is located too far away (another state or country), insist on regularly scheduled phone and/or video conferences. Also, make sure they are available to you on a daily basis through several channels - email, telephone, instant messenger to name a few. Another trait of a good developer is that they will document the entire process, including meeting minutes and notes. If the developer is a group, make sure you are provided with a single point of contact, a "go to" person that you can form a working relationship with to answer your questions and address your concerns