To-Do List When You Part Ways With Your Software Developer

What should you do when you part ways with your software developer?

As a business owner, you'll have periods where you work with someone on a software project. Sometimes the project ends, sometimes the needs change, or sometimes reasons arise and you part ways. While this can be unpleasant, being prepared is critical to protecting your business's security and data. So, what steps should you take when you part ways with your software developer?

1. Submission of Source Code and Project Files

The first and most important step: ensuring you receive the complete source code (the original files in which the code was written). A software project is not just a "working site"; it has code written by the developer behind it. Without this code, another developer cannot maintain, update, or improve the project.

• Create a backup of all project files and folders.
• Request the database structure and schema in writing.
• Get a list of all libraries and tools used.
• Check if there is documentation (documentary explaining how the software works).

If you haven't been given the source code, this is a very risky situation for the business. Our guide, titled "What should you demand from a software developer as a business owner in Alanya?", provides detailed information on this topic.

2. Secure Server and Hosting Access

Your website is hosted on a computer; this is called a "server" or "hosting". If the former developer has access to the server control panel (such as cPanel, DirectAdmin), you must immediately revoke that access.

• Change all passwords on your hosting provider's website.
• Remove the former developer from user accounts.
• Update the passwords for your FTP (file transfer) accounts.
• Change database passwords.
• Check the control panel access log (who logged in and when).

If you find yourself asking: "If server administration seems a bit confusing, a professional team can provide support." Alanya IT Services provides full support in server security and management.

3. Maintain Control of Your Domain Name

A domain name is your website address (for example: example.com). This is very important because it's just a copy of your site; the domain name is your identity.

• Check who the domain name owner (registrant) is — is it yours?
• If you know your domain name management password (whois password), verify it; if you don't know it, change it.
• Note the domain's renewal date; set a reminder if it doesn't renew automatically.
• Make sure your contact information with the domain registration company is up-to-date.

Warning: If the domain name is registered in someone else's name, reclaiming it could lead to legal problems. No business owner would want that.

4. Database Security and Data Backup

The database is where all your important data, such as customer information, products, and order history, is stored. This data belongs to your business and must be protected.

• Create a current backup of all databases.
• Change database passwords.
• Check the database users; remove the old developer.
• If it's an e-commerce site, check if the payment information is encrypted.

5. Check Software Licenses and Tools

The software project may use commercial tools, libraries, or plugins. Check if you have the license rights to use them.

• Check the licensing information of all paid software tools being used.
• Find information about subscription-based services (APIs, etc.).
• Keep your license keys in a safe place.

6. Conduct a Cybersecurity Audit

An older programmer might intentionally or negligently leave security vulnerabilities on the site. If you have some money, you can ask a cybersecurity expert to audit your site.

• Check the site for known vulnerabilities.
• Investigate whether there has been unauthorized access to login panels and administration areas.
• Check the server logs for suspicious activity.

7. Update Contact Information and Accounts

Update all communication channels on your site that lead to the previous developer: contact forms, email addresses, live support settings, etc.

• Change the email addresses in the website contact form.
• Renew your technical support email address.
• Update your information to renew your SSL certificate (HTTPS security).
• Check all automated response messages.

8. Archive Documents and Contracts

Keep all contracts, emails, and project files safe in case any legal issues arise in the future.

• Keep a copy of the signed contract in a safe place.
• Receive a written list of the submitted files.
• Document the project completion date and the conditions at the start.

Things to Consider When Choosing a New Software Developer

After a separation, be more cautious when choosing a new developer to continue the project. Opt for established teams like Mubinözdemir Bilişim , which have been operating for many years and guarantee source code delivery and open-source terms. Agencies with their own server infrastructure and engineers are a more reliable choice in case of project interruptions.

Conclusion: Be prepared, anticipate problems.

While the to-do list may seem long when you part ways with your software developer, each step is crucial for protecting your business's digital presence. Act quickly, control all access, and secure data. Remember these lessons when starting new projects in the future. Working with professional agencies, writing clear contracts, and not always requiring you to have the source code will prevent such problems in advance.

Do you have questions about digital services? You can reach us through our Instagram page and learn more about our experience and solutions.