A freelance developer and a software development company can both be suitable choices. The decision should turn on the work involved, the experience needed and who will take responsibility for delivery. Compare the proposed service as carefully as the price.
Explore our custom software development services and examples of our projects.
Start with the work you need done
A defined change to an existing application is a different assignment from building a mobile app, database and office dashboard together. List the design, development, testing and release work. Ask which tasks the supplier will deliver directly and which need other people.
Find out who manages the project
Ask who will translate your business process into a specification, organise feedback and keep track of changes. A business owner can manage an individual developer, but needs to allow time for that role. With a company, check the actual project contact and responsibilities rather than assuming everything is included.
Compare relevant evidence
Look for work with similar users, workflows or integrations. Ask what the supplier personally delivered and how the finished system is maintained. Digital Solutions’ published projects include applications that connect mobile work with office administration, giving you specific examples to discuss.
Agree what happens when people are unavailable
Ask how planned absence, illness or a change of personnel would be handled. Confirm how project information is recorded and who can continue the work. Neither a freelancer nor a company automatically provides continuity; it depends on the arrangements you agree.
Questions and answers
Is a freelancer always cheaper?
Compare quotes for the same scope. A lower initial figure may cover fewer tasks, while a company may also quote narrowly.
Is a company always the better option?
No. Relevant experience, clear responsibilities and a workable delivery plan matter more than the label.
What should I ask about testing?
Ask who prepares the tests, which devices and workflows are covered, and how defects are recorded and resolved.
Should support be discussed before development?
Yes. Agree what support is available, what it costs and who takes responsibility after release.
Discuss your requirements
Tell us the main issue you want to solve, the process that takes the most work and what you would like to improve. We can discuss an appropriate scope and the cost of building it.