Fast verdict: Prefer the simplest maintainable solution meeting the commercial need. Custom code is not automatically better than native theme capability.
Define the commercial outcome
Name the customer problem and success signal: a faster product page, cleaner merchandising, a new bundle flow or fewer support issues. List your theme, apps, markets and integrations.
Match the specialist
Theme specialists, app developers, conversion designers and integrators solve different problems. Ask candidates to explain tradeoffs among native settings, apps and custom code.
Evaluate safely
- Use collaborator access
- Duplicate the live theme
- Test cart, search and mobile
- Track recurring app costs
- Require code handoff
Acceptance criteria
| Area | Check |
|---|---|
| Responsive UI | Named mobile and desktop widths |
| Performance | No material regression |
| Commerce | Variants, pricing and inventory tested |
| Handoff | Theme, code and notes delivered |
Red flags
Be cautious of guaranteed conversion lifts, undocumented edits, unnecessary apps and unclear recurring fees.