(Part 2 of 2) Fractional Tech Resource | the risks attached and how to do it right

In part 1 we discussed how fractional part-time resources offer many benefits to companies in the technology sector. This type of resource helps with reducing costs, providing flexibility, accessing specialised skills, and increasing productivity. With fractional resource on demand companies can build a more effective and efficient workforce that can adapt to the ever-changing demands of the industry.

In part 2 of our newsletter I'm going to give you an overview of the risks attached to hiring fractional resources for bespoke part-time projects and steer you in the right direction so that you can avoid first-time mistakes and secure the best resource for your business.

There is risk attached to hiring fractional resource when you use freelance sites like Upwork or Fiverr:

Quality of Work

As Upwork and Fiverr are open platforms where anyone can create an account and offer their services, there is a risk of the quality of work delivered by freelancers. Not all freelancers on the platform are equally skilled or experienced, so there is an increased risk that you might end up hiring someone who is not capable of delivering high-quality work.

Communication Issues

Communication is a crucial aspect of any project, and when you hire freelancers through platforms like Upwork or Fiverr, there can be communication issues due to language barriers, time zone differences, or lack of clarity on both sides. This can lead to misunderstandings, delays, and ultimately affect the quality of work.

Dependability

Freelancers on Upwork and Fiverr are not your staff, so you can't control their work schedule or monitor their work hours. There is a risk that a freelancer may disappear in the middle of a project, miss deadlines, or deliver subpar work due to their lack of accountability.

Intellectual Property Theft

Upwork and Fiverr are open platforms, and there is a risk that a freelancer might steal your intellectual property, such as your trade secrets, copyrighted material, or confidential information, and use it for their own benefit.

Security Issues

Upwork has experienced security breaches in the past, which exposed sensitive information of its users. Although the platform has taken steps to enhance its security measures, there is still a risk of your data being compromised.

Hidden Costs

While Upwork and Fiverr offer transparent pricing systems, there may be hidden costs associated with hiring a freelancer, such as project management fees, payment processing fees, or additional taxes. These costs can add up and make the project more expensive than anticipated.

How to remove the risk and hire fractional resource the right way

Find a strategic partner

If you find a good resource and consulting firm they will remove all of the risks above because they're a service led partner that can advise you on these types of services among others. Often you will find that resourcing partners mainly offer full-time contractors, full time staff augmentation models or permanent recruitment options so it will be tough to find the right partner.

Case studies and referrals

If someone is good at what they do and is experienced to the level you need they will be able to provide case studies and introductions to previous clients. Be confident in asking for case studies and referrals so you can build trust before making the investment.

Introducing a trusted partner - BrightBox Group

BrightBox is a trusted tech resource and capability consultancy dedicated to providing innovative IT resourcing solutions to tech-enabled businesses. With a team of top-tier onshore, nearshore and offshore associates, and a focus on customer satisfaction, BrightBox continues to deliver exceptional resource and flexible solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of each client.

BrightBox has developed a fractional nearshore service to help organisations effortlessly scale their technology capability by providing highly skilled professionals available for bespoke part-time schedules. The nearshore piece behind it means that you can access pre-vetted, trusted and reliable part-time resource in a more cost effective way.

This new service offers two tailored options: a specified number of hours daily (up to 4 hours) or a specified number of days each week (up to 3 days).

Here, you can read more on BrightBox Group or if you would like to learn more about these resourcing services you can contact me on [email protected]

Overall, fractional part-time resources offer many benefits to companies in the technology sector but with any business decision there is risk. In the current economy you'll find yourself being stricter with budgets and so there's more importance on making the right resourcing decisions for your business. If you do your research on the risks at hand and make informed decisions, no doubt you'll secure the best resources for your business.