Unmasking Popular Myths About Staff Augmentation
Staff augmentation and traditional outsourcing models are often confused and used interchangeably, which is a mistake. Staff augmentation is a modern hiring method, particularly suited for IT-focused businesses.
FatCat Coders
Staff augmentation and traditional outsourcing models are often confused and used interchangeably, which is a mistake. Staff augmentation is a modern hiring method, particularly suited for IT-focused businesses. It does have significant similarities with traditional outsourcing, however it is a whole different concept on its own.
Moreover, misconceptions and biases surround this model, due to its less frequent mention in everyday conversation compared to outsourcing and freelancing.
In this text, we aim to briefly address prevalent myths linked to staff augmentation services and provide candid insights for each, describing the peculiarities of this specific model of working.
Myth No. 1: There Is Still Not Enough Control Over the Process!
Contrary to popular belief, staff augmentation offers a lot of control over the working processes.
This marks the initial significant departure between traditional outsourcing and staff augmentation. The pivotal distinction lies in your direct oversight of the processes and the extent to which these specialists integrate into your team and workflows.
For instance, consider a scenario where a project manager hails from your own company. In the staff augmentation model, they would have direct interaction with staff-augmented developers, who would usually participate in regular daily meetings. This dynamic fosters prompt communication and heightened command over your project's trajectory and evolution.
In contrast to the freelance or outsourcing framework, the collaborative synergy between your company's team and the staff-augmented team cultivates camaraderie and a deeper understanding. This, in turn, fuels enhanced productivity on both fronts, minimizing the need for prolonged exchanges.
Myth No. 2: But, You Do Not Save Much Money, It Is an Expensive Service.
Actually, it is a money-saving service in contrast to other business-to-business (B2B) models of working.
When considering staff augmentation, there are internal expenditures that can be circumvented compared to alternative B2B models.
Financially, employers gain by sidestepping fixed salaries, legal and employment perks, premiums, and social security contributions. Moreover, this approach economizes time and resources during recruitment.
For example, the freelance work model requires increased dedication to recruitment procedures, potentially leading to costs, particularly when technical evaluations are included. In sharp contrast, staff-augmented teams offer scalability through their seasoned, proficient, and adept units, primed to seamlessly assimilate into projects.
Myth No. 3: There Are No Long-Term Benefits to It
Staff augmentation collaboration can easily lead to long-term partnerships that can help you enhance your business in general.
While staff-augmented teams can be engaged on a project basis, this collaboration has the potential to transcend, creating a more profound impact. Initially, it empowers your core team to dedicate itself to the crucial aspects of your company's growth. Simultaneously, you would be able to leverage the expertise of diverse, experienced colleagues from augmented teams, thereby focusing on substantial projects.
Yet, one of the most underestimated advantages of this working model is knowledge sharing. Given the distinct dynamics, new members from augmented teams can infuse your core business with novel ideas and fresh perspectives, potentially fostering your long-term advancement.
Myth No. 4: You Cannot Avoid Time and Culture Challenges
We cannot change the cultural and time differences if such occur, however, we can make the best of them.
Undoubtedly, diversity holds paramount significance, particularly in fostering distinct perspectives and innovation within the realm of IT. Cultural diversity, in particular, can engender a more inclusive and harmonious atmosphere among team members.
Regarding time-related challenges, adept management and flexibility can even transform them into assets. Notably, in the realm of customer support services, the need to cover a multitude of time zones is apparent. In this context, staff-augmented teams demonstrate their prowess, providing a scalable and seasoned team equipped to address all necessary time zones.
A parallel phenomenon is observed in software development, where offshore service providers operate across various shifts, acclimating to their specific work hours and time zones. This adaptation not only facilitates the process but also injects a fresh and alternative perspective into proceedings, as previously stressed.
We have you covered on that challenge as well, drawing from our experience of collaborating with international teams across various time zones. We are delighted to share some of the most valuable tips to facilitate seamless remote work in diverse time zones.
Myth No. 5: In the End - It Is Just a Fancy Name for “Outsourcing”
Considering all the points discussed earlier, staff augmentation stands as a unique and distinct service.
Unveiling the misconceptions, this approach provides enhanced flexibility, particularly in terms of team scalability, along with increased dependability and expertise. This ultimately translates to reduced expenses, particularly in the realm of administrative and recruitment costs.
Backed by our substantial history of successful staff augmentation partnerships, we're always eager to share our stories and are open to starting new chapters.
In this regard, don't hesitate to get in touch with us. We'd be delighted to connect, learn more about your current requirements, and explore the possibilities ahead.
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