The real difference is not in quality but in what happens when someone gets sick.
A freelancer is usually cheaper and more direct: you speak to the creator himself. An agency offers continuity and multiple disciplines, at a higher rate. The decisive question is how critical your site is: if there is turnover involved, then continuity outweighs rates.
NEXT TO EACH OTHER
The differences at a glance
| ASPECT | Freelancer | Desk |
|---|---|---|
| Rate | Typically lower | Higher, more overhead |
| Contact | Directly with the maker | Often via a project leader |
| Continuity | Vulnerable in case of illness or crowds | Replacement possible |
| Disciplines | One specialism, strong | Several under one roof |
| Speed | Often faster, short lines | More process |
| For large projects | Risk of failure | More resistant to size |
WHEN WHAT
When which
For a well-organized site with a clear scope, a good freelancer is often the best price-quality ratio, and you speak to the person who really makes it.
As soon as your site generates turnover, or the project runs for several months, the question of 'what if this person drops out' weighs more heavily than the hourly rate.
- Freelancer on a defined project — clear scope, short process.
- Freelancer on a limited budget — less overhead in the rate.
- Freelancer if you want direct contact — no intermediate layer.
- Do ask: what in case of failure — and whether there is a backup appointment.
- Office at mission-critical sites — downtime then really costs money.
- Desk for long journeys — continuity over months.
- Office in multiple disciplines — design, construction and technology together.
- The question is: who really builds it? — and whether it is outsourced.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
More about the choice
What are you?
Small and technical, with the directness of a freelancer and recorded agreements about transfer and documentation. The latter is exactly the point at which small parties are vulnerable, so we have explicitly arranged it.
Is an agency always more expensive?
Usually per hour. Not necessarily per project: if an agency works more efficiently or prevents mistakes that will be expensive later, the overall result can be more favorable. Compare project prices, not hourly rates.
How do I prevent dependency?
By ensuring that your domain, code and documentation are yours and that it runs on standard technology. Then another party can take over, regardless of who you started with.
CONTINUE READING
Of course, continue reading about this subject.
Who suits this project?
Tell us what you want to build and how critical it is. We say honestly whether we are the right party.