Hiring Freelancers vs Outsourcing a Remote Team. Which Is Better?

Hiring a Freelancer

This is always a good option when your workload is small and all you need to complete a task is several part-time specialists i.e. remote designers or coders. Consider the following difficulties before making a final decision.

Pros

• Huge pool of talents. You can find a cream-of-the-crop specialist
• Cost reduction. Hiring freelancers allows you to save more than half of your budget

Cons

• Legal issues. There are certain legal issues to keep in mind when you hire a freelance worker. For example, there is no guarantee that he or she will not trade your sensitive data to your competitor.
• Lack of control. Freelancers are much more independent compared to in-office workers.

Hiring an Offshore Company

If you need to delegate a long-term task with minimum risks, consider this model for your business. Setting up an offshore development agency is more costly, but also safer solution. Unlike collaboration with freelance workers, the outsourcing company provides numerous benefits. At the same time, there are also several drawbacks.

Read also: Outsourcing vs. Outstaffing: What Is The Difference?

Pros

• Absolute control over the performance
• High quality standards imposed by vendors
• Less time on recruiting
• Legal guarantees allow to create transparency and build trust

Cons

• More costly
• Relatively longer process of recruiting

Freelancers vs Agencies

Both freelance workers and remote agencies offer flexibility in hiring. Both models are cost-effective as you do not have to buy equipment, and rent an office. However, the freelancers’ loyalty is inconstant. Furthermore, they do not guarantee that your private information remains secure. In contrast, offshore agencies ensure that your sensitive data remains undisclosed. Thus, hiring freelance professionals is a great solution when it comes to short-term projects. However, when it comes to long-term/medium tasks, only expert outsource agencies are reliable enough to perform it.

Read also: Why Every Big Business Needs IT Solutions?

Are There Any Alternatives?

The combination of freelancers and outsourced team is also popular model due to its productiveness. At the same time, this approach requires strong managers capable of ensuring productivity open communication, setting tasks, and overseeing the workflow.

To sum up, hiring a freelance specialist is riskier and slower, but more cost-effective solution. The advantages of hiring a remote agency are numerous. However, there are also possible negative sides to consider such as higher price and longer process of recruiting. In any case, this choice depends on your business needs. Don't hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.