Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to common questions about SM Web Systems, our model, processes, and policies.

About Our Model

How does SM Web Systems work?

We build real products for clients while providing hands-on experience for emerging developers. Clients get quality software at accessible pricing, and developers get real portfolio pieces, mentorship, and professional experience.

Why is your pricing accessible?

Our model is designed to create value for everyone involved. By working with emerging developers (who gain experience) and building reusable systems (that make us more efficient), we can offer quality development at rates that are accessible to startups and small businesses.

Is this an internship program?

It's similar but not exactly. We treat all team members as professionals, not interns. Everyone contributes meaningfully to real projects and receives appropriate compensation for their work.

What makes you different from a traditional agency?

Traditional agencies charge premium rates for senior developers. We offer a different value proposition: motivated, mentored developers working on real projects with experienced oversight. You get quality work, and our developers get growth opportunities.

For Clients

Who owns the intellectual property?

You do. Clients retain 100% ownership of all product-specific code, designs, and assets. We only retain rights to generalized, reusable components that couldn't be used to recreate your product. This is documented clearly in our agreements.

What kind of projects do you take on?

We build web applications, APIs, Web3 projects, mobile-responsive products, and more. We're best suited for projects with clear requirements, reasonable timelines, and clients who value collaboration. We don't do rush jobs, one-off landing pages, or ethically questionable work.

How long do projects take?

It depends on scope, but most projects run 2-6 months. We'll provide timeline estimates during the review process based on your specific requirements.

How do I know the quality will be good?

Every project has experienced leads who review all code and ensure quality standards. We use industry-standard practices including code reviews, testing, and documentation. Plus, you'll have regular check-ins throughout the project.

Can I hire the developers who worked on my project?

Yes! We encourage this. If you've worked with us and want to bring a developer onto your team permanently, we'll facilitate that transition. We don't charge placement fees.

For Developers

Is this paid work?

Compensation varies based on project scope, your experience level, and your role. We're transparent about compensation expectations upfront. We don't believe in unpaid work.

Do I need prior professional experience?

Not necessarily. We welcome self-taught developers, bootcamp graduates, and career changers. What matters is your commitment to learning, ability to work collaboratively, and dedication to quality.

How much time do I need to commit?

Most roles require 10-20 hours per week, though this varies by position. We're flexible and work with your schedule, but we do need consistent availability to maintain project momentum.

Can I use this work in my portfolio?

Yes, with appropriate permissions. We want you to showcase your work. The specific terms (what can be shown, how it should be credited) are outlined in our agreements and discussed with clients.

What kind of mentorship is provided?

Every developer works with experienced leads who provide code reviews, technical guidance, and career advice. We also have structured office hours, pair programming sessions, and regular check-ins.

Is this remote?

Yes, we work fully remotely. We use asynchronous communication and scheduled sync meetings to coordinate across time zones.

Legal & Ethics

Is this model legal?

Yes. All our arrangements comply with applicable labor laws. We document all terms clearly, provide appropriate compensation, and maintain transparent agreements with all parties.

How do you prevent exploitation?

We have explicit ethical guidelines, fair compensation expectations, clear agreements, and opt-out clauses. We treat junior developers as professionals, not free labor. Our ethics policy is public and we take concerns seriously.

What happens if I want to leave a project?

Team members can leave with reasonable notice (typically 2 weeks). We never lock anyone into unfair commitments. We understand circumstances change.

Who can I contact if I have concerns?

Still Have Questions?

Can't find what you're looking for? Get in touch and we'll help you out.