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Freelancer or Company – Who’s Better for Your Next IT Project?
Do you possess an outstanding product concept that you’re eager to transform into reality? The decision of who will assist in bringing your vision to life is not always straightforward. Every project is unique, so there’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to choosing between freelancers and software development companies.
Focusing on the pros and cons of hiring both freelancers and software development firms can help you make a more informed decision and select the right professionals for your project.
Project Cost
Freelancer
One significant advantage of hiring a freelance software developer is their generally lower rates. Even if a skilled freelancer’s hourly rates may appear high, you can typically expect to save between 20% and 30% compared to the cost of a development company. It’s important to note that when you hire a freelancer, you’re not covering expenses such as health insurance, office space, or office supplies.
Software Company
The primary drawback of hiring a software development team is that it usually comes at a higher cost. While seeking a software development company in a different region may seem attractive to reduce costs, it’s essential to remember that the adage “you get what you pay for” holds true. Cultural differences and language barriers can be challenging to overcome, so choosing a developer based solely on cost is not advisable.
The Scope of the Project
Freelancer
One benefit of hiring a freelancer is their expertise in a specific area. Since freelancers operate their own businesses, they often strive to become specialists in a particular niche. Therefore, for smaller projects or specific tasks, hiring a freelancer can be advantageous.
Software Company
If you require assistance with a more complex project or if you’re a novice entrepreneur, there are several advantages to hiring a software company. Professional software companies offer comprehensive services, including consulting, project management, business analysis, monetization strategies, and more. If you’re building a startup, engaging a professional team capable of handling all aspects of product development could yield a more substantial return on investment.
Experience
Freelancer
Another advantage of hiring a freelancer is their ability to closely match your specific requirements. For example, if you need a developer with photography skills to build a photography portfolio app, it’s often easier to find an individual freelancer with this particular experience.
Software Company
Software development companies bring extensive experience in handling complex projects and often have well-established workflow processes. Additionally, they stay updated on current software trends and new programming languages, resulting in better, more modern solutions for your project.
If you prefer a more structured and professional approach, hiring a software development company provides the benefit of dealing with project managers, approving completed work, and awaiting the next project phase.
Accountability
Freelancer
Most freelancers strive to deliver excellent work as their reputation relies on word of mouth. However, holding a freelancer accountable can be more challenging than a software development company. Freelancers may become too occupied with other projects, leading to scheduling issues, and not all freelancers prioritize the quality of your product. Furthermore, freelancers often complete a project and move on, which can pose difficulties if you encounter issues or bugs after project completion.
Software Company
One of the significant advantages of hiring a software development agency is their oversight of the project between the client and the developers to ensure smooth operations. They monitor work hours, quality, and client feedback, streamlining the process. It’s more convenient to communicate with one project manager overseeing the entire team of developers than to individually check in with multiple freelancers.
Moreover, reputable agencies are better equipped to handle emergencies and replace personnel if necessary, providing an added layer of security when choosing a software company over a freelancer.
Conclusion
In summary, both freelancers and software development companies have their advantages and disadvantages. If your project is sufficiently small for one person to manage, and you don’t anticipate needing a growing team, or you require a specialized expert, then hiring a freelancer may be the right choice.
However, for complex projects that demand an efficient team, or if you lack prior experience in managing freelancers, selecting a software development company is typically the better option.
For instance, partnering with CodeFirst offers the advantage of leveraging 20 years of experience in the software industry. Our team of skilled developers will consult with you to guide your project to the next level.
Don’t hesitate to contact us for a free in-person or phone consultation to explore how we can work together to achieve your goals.