In-House vs Outsourcing Project Manager: What Is a Better Solution for Your Development Team

Project management is the backbone of any successful development team, a statement few would dispute. But here's a twist: traditional project management methods are failing us, with a staggering 70% of projects crashing into failure. The culprit? Perhaps it's the way we hire software project managers.

Our article aims to delve into this topic, providing a comprehensive comparison between in-house vs outsourcing project managers. We'll explore the project manager cons, pros and responsibilities of each, helping you make an informed decision for your dedicated software development team. Let’s start in-house vs outsourcing project managers comparison by understanding in-house project managers.

Understanding In-house Project Managers

In the realm of project management, in-house project managers play a pivotal role. As full-time employees, they are the main lead of the organization, steering projects toward their successful completion.

Interestingly, a study reveals that 93% of organizations use standardized project management practices. This shows the importance of in-house project managers in maintaining and implementing these standardized practices within the in-house vs outsourcing project manager debate.

Moreover, some significant in-house project manager pros include:

• Direct control and supervision: They offer real-time monitoring and immediate feedback, a key factor in the successful execution of projects.

• Deep understanding of the company's culture and processes: This knowledge enables them to make decisions that align with the company's values and goals, leading to more effective communication and decision-making.

• Availability and accessibility: Their physical presence within the organization facilitates spontaneous discussions and quick problem-solving and fosters stronger relationships with the team.

Exploring Outsourced Project Managers

These professionals, external hires often from specialized firms, are brought on board to manage specific projects.

Their mode of operation is distinct, characterized by remote coordination. They leverage technology to stay connected with the team, utilizing a range of software tools for task tracking, communication, and documentation.

As per Go Remotely, more than two-thirds of organizations hire project managers by outsourcing. This data shows how more people outsource project managers in present times due to the unfair advantage they hold against in-house teams.

The primary benefits of outsourcing a project manager are manifold in case you avail of F22 Labs services:

• Access to specialized expertise and experience: Outsourced project managers often bring a wealth of knowledge from various industries and projects. This diversity can infuse your project with unique skills and insights.

• Cost savings and flexibility: This is the biggest reason the directors outsource project managers. Outsourcing can significantly reduce overhead costs associated with full-time employees. It also offers flexibility, allowing you to scale the project management resources based on project needs.

• Objective perspective and fresh insights: An external project manager can provide an unbiased perspective, free from internal politics or preconceived notions. This objectivity can lead to innovative solutions and unbiased decision-making.

Comparing Details: In-house vs Outsourcing Project Managers

Navigating the In-House vs Outsourcing Project Manager debate is like walking a tightrope. Each step, and each decision, can significantly impact your development team's success.

Let's compare practices of hiring in-house vs outsourcing project managers across the five most critical parameters.

1. Cost-effectiveness

2. Expertise and industry knowledge

3. Resource allocation and scalability

4. Time and efficiency

5. Risk management and mitigation

Overcoming Challenges and Concerns

Outsourcing takes an edge in In-house vs Outsourcing Project Managers debate. However, it is also not without its challenges. Communication barriers, time zone differences, cultural mismatches, and lack of direct control can be daunting. In fact, 55% of project managers cite budget overrun, often a result of miscommunication, as a reason for project failure.

However, these hurdles can be overcome. Here are some actionable strategies that you can implement on the go:

• Establish clear communication protocols.

• Schedule regular updates.

• Foster cultural understanding.

• Set detailed project expectations.

In-House vs Outsourcing Project Managers: Bottomline

In the journey of In-House vs Outsourcing Project Managers comparison, the choice, as we've seen, hinges on your company's specific needs, circumstances, and strategic goals. Consider your project requirements, budget, timeline, and the scale of your operations.

However, the outsourcing project manager takes a slight edge due to some added advantages as compared to in-house.

Want expert assistance?

F22 Labs is here for you!