The world is changing, and so is the way we do business. These days, more and more companies are outsourcing their software development needs to third-party vendors.
Most people prefer to work with freelancers because they are more affordable and flexible. The flexible part is especially appealing because it allows businesses to get the product they want without committing to a long-term contract.
Freelance software development is a great option for companies with limited budgets and who want to get a product to market quickly.
On the other hand, software development companies offer a more comprehensive solution. They have the resources and expertise to handle complex projects requiring many workforces. Plus, they can provide support and maintenance services down the road.
So, which is better? Well, it depends on your needs and budget. This article pit freelancers against software development companies so you can decide for yourself.
Article Contents
Scope Of The Development Project
Freelancing is trending in the market and has been for a while. It is not uncommon to want to work with someone on a project who is not in the same room or even in the same country as you are.
This can be done through freelancing websites that allow you to post your project and have developers from around the world bid on it.
Software development companies have a team of developers who work on the project from start to finish. In recent years, the scope of the project has been changing.
The client now wants to see the project completed as soon as possible, with new features and updates being added regularly. This has put pressure on the development companies and seen a fall in the popularity these companies.
Software development companies usually demand long-term work instead of a single project and have a higher price for the project.
Flexibility In Working Hours
Freelancers offer much flexibility in working hours as they can work according to their own time and schedule. They are not bound by the traditional 9 to 5 working hours.
This is one of the main reasons why people prefer to work with freelancers. The time frame in which the project must be completed is negotiable and can be decided according to the client’s convenience.
Software development companies have a set working schedule, and they cannot deviate from it. This inflexibility is one of the main reasons why clients prefer freelancers over these companies. The working hours of these companies are usually from 9 to 5, which is not convenient for everyone.
Guaranteed Completion Of Project
In outsourcing work to freelancers, there are only words that the project will be completed on time. There is no guarantee that they will do it. The client has no control over them, and if they do not meet the deadline, there is nothing the client can do about it.
Some scam artists pretend to be freelancers and take the money without doing any work. Some freelancers also overpromise and under-deliver.
On the other hand, software development companies guarantee the completion of projects within a given timeframe. Contracts bind them, and they face legal consequences if they do not complete the project on time.
The client also has more control over them as they can monitor work progress and take action if required. For example, to create an NFT game, one would need an ERC-721 token.
A software development company can easily create this, but a freelancer might not have the expertise or be unable to deliver on time.
Quality Of The Work Provided
The quality of work provided by freelancers can vary. It depends on their skills and experience. Many talented freelancers can provide high-quality work.
However, many do not have the required skills and end up providing low-quality work. You cannot be sure of the quality of work that you will get from a freelancer.
The quality of work provided by software development companies is usually good as they have a team of experienced professionals. They also have quality control measures to ensure that the work meets the required standards.
Before the workpiece is delivered to the client, it undergoes a quality check to ensure it is up to the mark. Clients can also be assured of the quality of work as these companies have a good reputation to maintain.
Cost Of The Services
Freelancers usually charge less than software development companies. This is because they do not have the same overhead costs, such as office space, equipment, etc. They can also work from home, which further reduces their costs.
These savings are passed on to the clients through lower prices. The price charged by software development companies is usually higher as they have to recover their overhead costs from the client.
The client must bear the office space, equipment, and other expenses. In some cases, these companies also charge for their support services. There are also hidden costs, such as maintenance and updates, that the client has to pay for.
Customer Care And Support
Most freelancers do not offer customer care and support. Once the project is completed, they are not interested in it. The client is on their own if there are any issues with the work delivered.
Some freelancers charge more if the clients ask for support. On the other hand, software development companies offer customer care and support even after the project is completed.
They want to maintain a good relationship with their clients and build a long-term business relationships. These companies are also interested in the success of their projects as it reflects on their reputation.
