Do you have to use RedGard?
In respect to this, do you need to use RedGard over cement board?
As long as it's Cement Board & not some crappy "almost" cement board stuff. You really don't need the RedGard, but the more protection the betterso go for it. And yes, you can do the boards beforehand. But, hit the filled seams & screws (your weak points) as soon as a panel is ready to give it some time to setup.
Also question is, do I need to use RedGard over Hardibacker?
Either you use a vapor barrier behind the hardi, or you can use a waterproofing system (like redgard) over the hardi, but you should not do both. As Vic mentioned, hardi isn't waterproof, so no sense in being concerned with the seams. Hardi, while not waterproof will not be affected by water. Water will do it no harm.
RedGard Creates a Waterproof and Crack Resistant Membrane Applying RedGard to any surface is super easy. If you can paint a wall you can use RedGard no problem.