Outsourcing vs Freelancing: Why is outsourcing still better?
Freelancing is an okay option, though I would have to say that it’s not the best option out there. Even though it helps a lot in cutting costs initially, the risks and uncertainties with regards to the quality and the achievement of your project can cost you more in the long run.
In addition to that, here are some very common problems that clients face when working with freelancers:
#1: Fake resumes and overstated capabilities
Unfortunately, there are freelance workers who do this. Not everyone, but some. These freelancers tend to exaggerate their profiles and skill set in order to attract clients, sometimes to the point of showcasing false portfolios.
There’s no way for clients to confirm the validity of their claimed skills and expertise—not until they’re already in the middle of the project. In worst cases, the work quality received is not of the standard; clients end up spending twice to hire someone to fix the mess.
#2: Difficulties in communication
Freelancers tend to become difficult to get a hold of. They become unreachable while the project is underway. Unread messages, unanswered mails—and there’s nothing that clients can do about it. The project may even be halted indefinitely, and the client is left wondering where the freelancer went—along with his money.
#3: Difficulties in tracking progress
In relation to point #2, there’s also the difficulty of tracking the progress of freelance workers. Clients often have a hard time assessing the performance of the freelancer and making sure they are clocking in the required hours to work on the project.
#4: Slow completion of a project
Freelancers, most of the time, is working on multiple projects at a time—and this definitely affects their performance and dedication to your project. They also work on their own time, so clients are often at the risk of having their project dragged on and on. This may eventually cost the client a lot more than they intended to spend.
Fortunately, it’s possible to avoid these risks and added costs—by hiring with outsourcing service providers. These providers often have a good business model and a setup that prioritise clients and help them avoid the risks in traditional outsourcing.
Here are some of the benefits and advantages of hiring through an outsourcing company:
#1: Cost reduction
Especially for startups and small to medium enterprises operating on a tight budget, outsourcing helps reduce costs and prevent additional expenses.
Outsourcing service providers help clients find the talent they need with significantly lower labour costs compared to hiring locally. Aside from that, reliable providers also take care of the high-spec equipment, office space, support, HR, and other general administrative tasks. This business model allows clients to focus on growing their business.
#2: Speedy hiring process
Hiring with outsourcing companies is significantly faster. In just a span of 1 to 2 weeks, clients are provided with outsourced candidates that meet their requirements. These outsourced workers are also equipped to work exclusively for the client and jump into the project right away.
This saves startups a lot of time, especially those who are looking to develop a product following strict deadlines.
#3: Flexibility
One great advantage of finding an outsourcing partner is the flexibility that they offer. Outsourcing contracts heavily consider the duration of the project and the team size that’s required for it. Clients can conveniently—and quickly—scale with the help of reliable outsourcing companies, and they only work with them as long as they need them.
#4: Access to more talent
Outsourcing is a smart option, especially for startups and small to medium enterprises in Western countries like the UK, the US, and Australia, where talent shortage is especially felt. Outsourcing companies allow these firms to gain access to a bigger pool of equally (or even better) talented workforce in other countries, giving them more options. This works well, especially for those businesses that encourage a globally diverse workforce.
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