To make an informed decision, it is important to examine these two alternatives by considering the main aspects of a software project: costs, project management, the team, and its expertise.

Costs

Let's not hide it: developing an application is expensive! Costs are notably the variable that prompts many decision-makers to opt for recruiting an in-house digital team.

However, the decision obviously depends on several factors, but especially on your own business objectives. If the goal is to develop and create your product in parallel with operational activities and by adopting a more progressive approach, recruiting an internal team may prove to be the appropriate and most profitable long-term option.

If the ambition is to quickly create a proof of concept (MVP) that validates the idea with the market without committing too much financially and without having to undertake a time-consuming and expensive recruitment campaign, then collaborating with a development agency could turn out to be the optimal solution.

Project Management

Planning, controlling, and steering a digital project can be complex, especially if it's your first one. Involving a development agency offers the advantage of accessing a team of specialists accustomed to working together who, in addition to having diverse experience and expertise, possess a deep understanding of issues and pitfalls to avoid.

Managing challenges related to design, user experience, software architecture, security, performance, and development holds no secrets for them! This knowledge and skills allow building and maintaining a project on solid foundations by following best practices.

Some might say that no one is better served than by themselves; however, such mastery of the development process requires a lot of time and experience. Developing these skills internally is certainly a long-term investment but, once again, it all depends on the objectives.

360 Expertise

The expertise needed for development, whether it's a mobile or web application, goes far beyond code. To create a product that meets your users' criteria and your own, it is imperative to include strategy, research, design, development, and testing in the creation process. Setting up an internal team with such a diversity of expertise can be complex and lengthy, and ensuring effective synergy among these stakeholders is an even greater challenge.

That's why most specialized agencies offer the majority of services from these different fields. This approach facilitates project management by allowing communication with a single product manager or project manager, who will effectively coordinate interactions with the various stakeholders.

The Team

Attracting, developing, and retaining employees are basic theoretical concepts in human resource management but, in reality, they can quickly become a challenge. While the idea of forming an internal team seems attractive and a long-term investment, one should not underestimate the challenges associated with creating, managing, and growing a digital team—especially if software development is not at the heart of your company's main activities.

Collaborating with a development agency ensures the involvement of an experienced, committed, and motivated team composed of developers and digital experts who work in an environment tailored to their needs and professional ambitions.

Each alternative presents distinct advantages and limitations, requiring a thorough evaluation to make an informed decision. While financial, temporal, and human considerations play an essential role, the decision between an internal team and a specialized agency closely depends on your company's objectives, and unfortunately, there are no right or wrong answers.