We are proud to be part of a professional software design service and IT firm. We develop software for a client’s specific needs, and we are very good. As there are many types of software and infrastructure on which code is run (e.g. Cloud vs Server vs PC vs Mobile vs Electronic device), it often demands multiple software skillsets to successfully deliver the target solution. So we employ a multiskilled team with expertise in developing software for many infrastructure types.
This development work can involve us contributing alongside an existing client team, while in other cases, we take on the whole software/IT job, to deliver a working outcome.
Frequently, the question raised by new clients is:
“why don’t I just hire a contractor?”.
This is a reasonable question when the ongoing cost of building a substantial full-time internal team is not justified for a short-term peak during a product development. An individual contractor could be paid to come onsite and perform allocated tasks. Yes, they could.
So back to the question, what’s the main difference between a design services company and a contractor. Well based on experience, it often comes down to benefits in scope, time, and accountability. See the graphic below, which points to more value add from design services.
| Design Services Company | Individual Contractor | |
| Scope | Solve the problem, with multiskilled team. (Solution-Oriented) | Do what is asked. (Task-driven) |
| Time | Motivated to deliver (Paid to deliver) | Not motivated to conclude. (Paid by the day, full time) |
| Accountability | Seek ongoing support & repeat work. (Builds value add & repeat knowledge) | Typically, one-time only projects. (Not motivated to complete) |
Takeaway: While firms can hire an individual contractor they can expect to pay for much longer. Whereas a design service company is more accountable to an agreed scope and time (read: project budget), where added time brings more value add.
