It isn't clear if this is an exterior or interior wet or dry application, which are all important factors to consider.  If you are installing the backer board for an exterior application or wet application, the backer board has to be suitable for those conditions, and the wood sheathing needs to be isolated with a particular type of moisture barrier.  Then there are questions as to what climatic conditions the tile and its assembly will be subjected to, and what type of tile is being installed.  Is it freeze thaw stable?  Is it going to be subjected to moisture and/or traffic and will it be suitable for the intended use.

If the backer board is suitable for the application it does need to be installed in a staggered pattern, joints have to be open, filled and taped with appropriate materials and it needs to be fastened with the proper fastener and the corrected placement and frequency.  Plus proper movement joints need to be installed and proper installation materials need to be used in terms of adhesive, membrane, sealants, and grout.

Depending on the thickness of the backer board and the underlying substrate normally the proper fasteners are at least 1-1/4" #8x0.375 HD self-drilling corrosion-resistant ribbed waferhead screws or equivalent.

You might want to consider using our quality control services to write the specifications and installation guidelines.  To avoid installer installation errors, you should require that the installers are TITC Certified to verify they understand the industry installation standards and methods.  Go to http://uofcts.org/online-courses/titc-certified/ for more information.