Technology is booming, and the world is progressing at an alarming rate. The software industry is one of the most in-demand industries right now. There is a constant demand for software developers who can create innovative and user-friendly applications. As Covid hit the globe, the whole world realized the importance of having an online presence. Businesses scrambled to have a digital makeover, and in this process, they realized the importance of software developers. Have you ever heard someone say, “I’m not a people person”? A freelance job is perfect if someone dreams of working in the software industry without social interaction.
In-house developers have particular benefits as well. They get to work with a team and access resources they might not have had if they were working freelance. Hiring is a callous process, but finding the right candidate that suits your company’s culture and values is even tougher. Choosing a freelance software developer or an in-house one is a huge decision and depends on various factors like budget, team size, company culture, etc. Let’s take a look at some of the pros and cons of both so that you can make an informed decision.
Provide Increased Specialization
We have seen a trend of the rise of the niche developer. You will have more developers with expertise in one or two languages than the traditional full-stack developer. The in-house team is bound to limited resources, and you will end up with the usual work as they get comfortable with the technology.
On the other hand, a freelance software developer can provide you with increased specialization as they would have already worked on various technologies and could share their insights and knowledge gained from those experiences.
More Productivity And Efficiency
It has been seen that developers working from home are more productive as they can design their work hours at their convenience and do not have to commute. They can take small breaks in between and not worry about office timings. This way, they can maintain a good work-life balance and be more efficient.
In-house developers might get comfortable and take more breaks or extended lunches as they are in the office. They take more time to adjust to new technologies as they are exposed to them less frequently. This way, a freelance software developer can be more productive and efficient.
Direct Supervision And Monitoring
This is one area where in-house developers have an advantage. Their supervisors can closely monitor their work and monitor their progress. They can give them immediate feedback and help them improve their work. If you want to hire mobile apps developer for your business, you should consider an in-house developer as they can get first-hand experience with your company’s work culture and values.
On the other hand, freelance developers are monitored less closely. They are given a project and are expected to complete it within the deadline. This can be both good and bad. It’s good because they can work at their own pace and take as much time as needed to complete the project. But it’s bad because the project can drag on for a long time if they are not self-motivated.
24-Hour Work Cycle
The in-house developer usually work 9 to 5 jobs, they might have to put in some extra hours if the project demands it, but at the end of the day, they can clock out and go home. On the other hand, freelance developers can work any time of the day or night.
This is because a contract does not bind them; they can take on as many or as few projects as they want. This flexibility is one of the main reasons why people choose to freelance. In freelancing, hours are not an issue as long as the project is completed on time. It’s up to the freelancer to decide when they want to work.
Quality of the Project Work
This is tough to call because it depends on the individual developer. Some in-house developers might be better than freelance developers, and vice versa. Some exceptional in-house developers are very talented and can produce high-quality work.
But some bad apples might cut corners and do a subpar job. The same goes for freelance developers; there are some perfect ones out there who will do a great job, and then there are those who might need to be better. It depends on who you hire and how much you are willing to pay for the project.
Your Budget And The Cost Of The Project
It is another essential factor when hiring a developer. If you have a limited budget, you might be unable to hire an in-house developer. In-house developers usually cost more because they are paid a salary and get benefits such as health insurance and paid vacation days.
On the other hand, freelance developers are usually cheaper because you only have to pay them for the project, and you don’t have to provide them with benefits.
You also have to consider the cost of the project itself. A freelance developer might be a better option if it’s a small project. An in-house developer is a better choice if it’s a large project because they can work on it full-time and get it done faster.
