Unlike other no-code platforms, Bubble.io is essentially a programming language in its own right. While it empowers users to build without traditional coding, the platform's complexity means applications can be built either in a way that's scalable, secure, and maintainable, or in a way that leads to technical debt and future problems. This makes choosing the right Bubble expert crucial for your project's success.
As more developers claim to be Bubble experts, it's essential to know how to evaluate their expertise. This comprehensive guide will help you identify true Bubble experts through a series of questions and what to look for in their answers.
In This Post:
- Database knowledge and best practices
- Security and privacy expertise
- Performance optimization skills
- Application architecture and organization
- Design and User Experience mastery
- Testing and Quality Assurance proficiency
- Development process and methodology
- Beyond technical skills
- Making the right choice
1. Database knowledge and best practices
The foundation of any successful Bubble application lies in its database structure. A poorly designed database can lead to performance issues, scalability problems, and maintenance nightmares down the road.
Think of your database as the blueprint of a house. Just like you wouldn't start building without proper plans, you shouldn't start developing without a solid database design. This is where a true Bubble expert shows their worth.
Many developers rush into building features without considering how data relationships will affect the application as it grows. An expert understands that taking time to plan the database structure properly will save countless hours of refactoring later.
A true expert thinks beyond just making features work. They consider how the application will perform when user numbers grow from 100 to 10,000, or when the database expands from 1,000 to 100,000 records.
Question:
How do you approach database design in Bubble, and what considerations do you make when structuring data types?
A true Bubble expert should mention:
- Starting with database design before building in the editor: This foundational approach prevents costly restructuring later and ensures scalable applications.
- Avoiding list fields for more large datasets: Lists become inefficient with large datasets and can significantly impact performance and consume more Workflow Units.
- Creating proper data relationships instead of using lists for scalability: Proper relationships make the database more maintainable and allow for better querying capabilities.
- Considering privacy rules when designing data types: Early privacy consideration ensures secure data access patterns and prevents major restructuring later.
- Adding necessary fields for efficient querying: Strategic field placement reduces the need for complex searches and improves application performance.
Red flags:
- Suggesting to build the database as they go.
- Recommending storing large lists in single fields.
- Not mentioning scalability considerations.
2. Security and privacy expertise
In today's digital landscape, security isn't just an option – it's a necessity. With data breaches making headlines regularly, protecting user information has never been more critical.
A Bubble expert knows that security goes far beyond setting up login pages and password fields. It's about understanding the platform's security model, implementing proper privacy rules, and protecting sensitive data at every level.
The difference between a novice and an expert often shows in how they handle security. While a novice might rely on front-end solutions, an expert understands the importance of server-side security and knows how to implement it effectively.
Question:
How do you ensure application security in Bubble, particularly regarding data access and API exposure?
A competent expert should discuss:
- Starting with restrictive privacy rules and gradually adding access: This "secure by default" approach prevents accidental data exposure.
- Server-side vs. client-side security checks: Understanding this distinction is crucial as client-side checks can be bypassed.
- API workflow security considerations: Proper API security prevents unauthorized access and data breaches.
- Proper handling of sensitive data: Encryption and secure storage practices protect user information.
- Authentication and authorization best practices: Robust user authentication prevents unauthorized access and maintains data integrity.
Red flags:
- Not implementing privacy rules from the start.
- Not understanding the implications of enabling the Data API.
- Suggesting that Bubble's default security is sufficient without additional measures.
- Not understanding the security implications of public API workflows.
They should emphasize the importance of not relying on client-side checks alone.
3. Performance optimization skills
Speed and responsiveness can make or break your application. Users expect instant responses, smooth interactions, and quick page loads. When these expectations aren't met, they leave.
Performance optimization in Bubble is an art that combines technical knowledge with practical experience. It's not just about making things faster – it's about making them smarter.
A true expert knows that performance isn't something you bolt on at the end. It's a consideration that should influence every decision, from database design to workflow structure.
Question:
What strategies do you employ to optimize Bubble application performance?
The expert should mention:
- Minimizing advanced filters and nested searches: These operations are slow and can significantly degrade the user experience.
- Proper use of reusable elements: Reusable elements improve maintainability and reduce page load times.
- Efficient data loading strategies: Smart data loading prevents unnecessary server requests and improves user experience.
- Workflow optimization techniques: Efficient workflows reduce server load and improve response times.
- Understanding of client vs. server operations: Knowing where operations should run optimizes both performance and security.
Red flags:
- Suggesting to increase capacity as the first solution to performance issues.
- Not mentioning workflow optimization or data loading strategies.
- Overusing lists for large datasets instead of proper data structures.
They should demonstrate knowledge of both front-end and back-end optimization techniques.
4. Application architecture and organization
Building a Bubble application is like conducting an orchestra. Each component needs to work in harmony with others, and the conductor (the developer) needs to ensure everything stays organized and efficient.
Good architecture isn't about following a rigid template – it's about creating a structure that can grow and adapt with your application. This is where many developers fall short, creating solutions that work today but become unmaintainable tomorrow.
A Bubble expert approaches architecture with both current needs and future scalability in mind.
Question:
How do you organize and structure a complex Bubble application?
They should discuss:
- Modular design principles: Modularity makes the application easier to maintain and scale.
- Use of reusable elements: Reusability reduces development time and ensures consistency.
- Workflow organization and naming conventions: Clear organization makes the application easier to maintain and debug.
- Page structure and navigation design: Good structure improves user experience and application performance.
- Version control and collaboration approaches: Proper version control prevents conflicts, facilitates development with teams, and maintains code quality.
Red flags:
- Hardcoding values instead of using option sets.
- Lack of naming conventions or documentation practices.
5. Design and User Experience mastery
Great design isn't just about making things look pretty. It's about creating interfaces that are intuitive, responsive, and enjoyable to use. This is especially true in Bubble, where design decisions can impact both user experience and application performance.
An expert understands that design in Bubble requires a unique approach. They know how to balance aesthetic appeal with technical constraints, ensuring that beautiful designs don't compromise functionality.
Every design decision should serve a purpose and enhance the user's journey through your application.
Question:
How do you approach responsive design and user experience in Bubble?
The expert should mention:
- Consistent styling using style guide: Consistency improves user experience and reduces maintenance effort.
- Proper element spacing and organization: Good spacing improves readability and user interaction.
- Loading states and user feedback: Proper feedback keeps users informed and improves perceived performance.
- Performance considerations in design: Design choices significantly impact application performance.
- Mobile-first design principles: Mobile-first ensures compatibility across all devices.
Red flags:
- Not considering mobile responsiveness.
- Not considering proper loading states or user feedback as developer work.
- Overcomplicating interfaces unnecessarily.
They should emphasize the importance of scalable layouts and consistent user experience.
6. Testing and Quality Assurance proficiency
Testing is often the unsung hero of successful applications. While it might not be the most exciting part of development, it's crucial for delivering reliable, bug-free software.
A Bubble expert knows that testing isn't just about clicking through features to see if they work. It's about systematically verifying every aspect of the application, from user flows to edge cases.
They understand that thorough testing can prevent costly mistakes and ensure a smooth user experience.
Question:
What is your testing methodology for Bubble applications?
They should discuss:
- Systematic testing approaches: Structured testing ensures comprehensive coverage of functionality.
- Edge case considerations: Edge case testing prevents unexpected failures in production.
- Real data testing: Testing with realistic data reveals potential issues that test data might miss.
- Performance testing: Regular performance testing ensures the application remains responsive as it grows.
- Security testing: Regular security testing identifies potential vulnerabilities before they can be exploited.
Red flags:
- Lack of systematic testing approach.
- Not testing with real or realistic data.
- Not comments about edge cases.
7. Development process and methodology
The journey of building a Bubble application is just as important as the destination. A structured development process can mean the difference between a successful project and a chaotic mess.
An expert doesn't just dive into development – they follow a methodical approach that ensures consistency, quality, and efficiency. This includes proper planning, documentation, and version control.
They understand that good processes lead to better outcomes and happier clients.
Question:
How do you manage and organize the development process of a Bubble application?
A true bubble expert should mention:
- Planning and documentation practices: Good documentation ensures knowledge transfer and maintenance efficiency.
- Bubble version control and deployment strategies: Proper version control prevents lost work and enables collaboration.
- Collaboration with team members: Effective collaboration improves project outcomes and reduces errors.
- Maintenance considerations: Forward-thinking maintenance planning reduces long-term costs.
Red flags:
- "Jumping right in" without proper planning.
- Not documenting important decisions or complex workflows.
- No clear version control strategy.
- Not considering maintenance and future updates.
- Lack of organized development stages.
8. Beyond technical skills
Technical expertise alone doesn't make a great Bubble developer. The best experts combine their technical knowledge with essential soft skills that make projects successful.
Communication, problem-solving, and business understanding are just as important as knowing how to build workflows. An expert should be able to translate technical concepts into language that non-technical stakeholders can understand.
They should also be able to see beyond the code and understand how their technical decisions impact business outcomes.
Remember that technical expertise is just one aspect of a great Bubble expert.
Look also for:
- Clear communication skills: Good communication prevents misunderstandings and ensures project success.
- Problem-solving ability: Strong problem-solving skills enable efficient resolution of complex issues.
- Project management experience: Project management skills ensure timely and organized delivery.
- Understanding of business requirements: Business understanding ensures solutions meet actual needs.
- Commitment to best practices: Following best practices ensures long-term application sustainability.
Red flags:
- Unable to explain technical concepts in simple terms.
- Not asking questions about business requirements.
- Promising unrealistic timelines.
- Not providing regular updates or communication.
- Resistance to following established best practices.
9. Making the right choice
Choosing the right Bubble expert is a critical decision that can impact your project's success for years to come. While technical expertise is essential, the final decision should be based on a comprehensive evaluation of both technical and professional qualities.
When making your final decision, focus on these key aspects:
- Track Record:
- Review their portfolio of completed projects.
- Ask for client references and follow up on them.
- Look for experience in projects similar to yours.
- Professional Approach:
- Evaluate their communication style and responsiveness.
- Assess their project management methodology.
- Check their documentation practices.
- Technical Assessment:
- Use the questions from previous sections to evaluate their expertise.
- Ask about their approach to specific challenges in your project.
- Verify their understanding of Bubble's latest features.
Red Flags to watch for:
- Inability to provide concrete examples of past work.
- Reluctance to discuss potential challenges.
- Vague answers about technical implementation.
- Unwillingness to provide references.
- Lack of transparency about development process.
Remember: The most cost-effective solution isn't always the cheapest one. Look for an expert who demonstrates both technical proficiency and professional maturity, someone who can not only build your application but also guide you through the development process while considering your business objectives.
Want to explore working with a professional Bubble developer?
If you're looking for professional Bubble developers, we can help: hire us as your full-service Bubble agency or hire individual Bubble freelancers through our Flex program.
