Outsource to a Freelancer or Web Development Company?

When running an online business or website these days most people can get a site or product created for them at a reasonable cost. The real question is who do hire.

Personally I have used both freelancer’s and software development companies whether it was for design, php or html coding, or any other thing I needed done. I found a few things to be true and false about each of the two options.

Freelancers Advantages
• Can easily find reviews on the freelance marketplaces.
• Services are generally much cheaper in almost all aspects.
• Money is usually safe with escrow type services provided by freelance websites.
• Most freelancers like what they are doing therefore will work hard to see the goals of your project to be seen through.

Freelancer Disadvantages
• You are relying on one person to do the work without chain of command. Therefore if problems arise it could be much worse then if working with a entire company.
• Limited flexibility again because you are working with one person. Always make sure you extensively review the freelancers past works.

Web Development Company Advantages
• You are dealing with multiple people which can bring new prospective to your project.
• Usually your experience will be more professional
• If you don’t like the work of one person at the company another team member could possibly take over the project.
• The possibility of faster response time to your problems and concerns.

Web Development Company disadvantages
• Generally higher prices than freelancers.
• Time frame may be longer due to more clients being handled at a time.
• Risk of wasting time and money as most companies won’t be using escrow services for payment.
• Chances to be billed by the hour.
• Fixes or Additional work will cost more money.

It is really hard to recommend either one as you can see both have there advantages and disadvantages. It really depends on the project at hand and what your budget is. You should always check out both options and make sure that the freelancer or company you are planning to work with has a good portfolio and great references. Otherwise you will be wasting your time and Time = Money!