Web Development: In-House or Hire Out? Which Is Better?
As a business owner, you must make tough decisions. For example, should you hire a Chicago web development agency or build an in-house team?
This article aims to help you answer this question by:
Chicago businesses that want to maximize online exposure to drive web traffic and increase revenues need a solid web development team. Although you can always build websites (and even apps), you cannot place a price tag on the value of expertise and specialization.
Website developers:
One of the biggest motivators for building your team is having the greatest amount of control over the project and its results. Some web development agencies can overstep their boundaries. They might introduce changes and ideas that you do not want because these changes do not align with your brand.
Having in-house developers does not mean that they cannot suggest or contradict ideas. Some of the best innovations happen when opinions clash. However, you have people who respect your final decision.
Another benefit is faster decision-making, partly because of easy communication. Even with some or all of your development team working remotely, you can still collaborate using tools such as Slack and Zoom.
Finally, having an in-house team of website developers who understand your culture can make a difference. They can create a website that reflects your image and values because they are intimately familiar with your vision and message.
On the other hand, managing an in-house team of web developers comes with several drawbacks. It is one of the costliest operations for your business, especially when it comes to hiring and keeping talent. These costs include:
You know what to expect if you build a team, but how does it compare to outsourcing? Such companies are not cheap. For example, a three-month project involving a simple website can cost at least $10,000.
However, working with a Chicago web development agency is often more cost-effective in the following ways:
In the end, one is not always better than the other. The decision depends on many factors when choosing a web developer. Use these questions to further pinpoint your options:
- Sharing the pros and cons of an in-house and outsourced web development team
- Enumerating the factors that can impact your choice
To learn how Digital Authority Partners can create a standout website for you, watch this video!
In-House vs. Outsourcing Web Development Agencies
Chicago businesses that want to maximize online exposure to drive web traffic and increase revenues need a solid web development team. Although you can always build websites (and even apps), you cannot place a price tag on the value of expertise and specialization.
Website developers:
- Understand the fundamental principles of user-friendly, accessible sites.
- Invest in training to keep themselves updated on the latest technologies, innovations, and trends.
- Have the right training and educational background to create professional, flexible websites.
- Foresee the potential issues and risks that can impede the website’s success.
- Keep your pages safe with the best security measures.
Benefits and Downsides of an In-House Website Development Department
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – 100% control over the project and outcome – Faster decision-making – Easy communication – People who fit and understand the organizational culture and vision | – High costs and turnover – Difficulty finding talent – Legal challenges during economic downturns |
- Salaries over $50,000 a year
- Benefits such as healthcare, vision, and dental insurance
- Retirement contributions
- Equipment and software
- Cost of training and onboarding
Why You Should Work (or Not) with a Web Development Agency
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – Cost-effective – Access to specialized talent – Better infrastructure – Focus on your core business operations | – Security risks – Challenges in communication – Possible hidden costs |
- No need to pay salaries, benefits, and overheads.
- Flexibility in contracts and pricing (e.g., get a fixed rate or pay only for the service you need).
- Zero investment in expensive software, hardware, and training.
- Security threats. Most of the time, your confidential data is on their system. Even if you trust them implicitly, what happens if they get hacked or go out of business?
- Communication gaps. It is not unusual to find both parties speaking different languages and/or separated by time zones. Moreover, they may have other clients who often get priority in their workflow.
- Hidden costs. The price on the quote may not include additional services, such as hosting, maintenance, and support. The expenses also go up when you encounter delays and setbacks.
Make an Informed Decision by Asking Relevant Questions
In the end, one is not always better than the other. The decision depends on many factors when choosing a web developer. Use these questions to further pinpoint your options:
- Business type. Are you a tech startup, an e-commerce site, or a medium- to large-sized business?
- Scale of the project. What is your plan -– a one-time website revamp or regular maintenance support? How complex is it? Do you want to add new features or expand its scope?
- Objectives. Why do you need a web development team? Do you plan to make an app later?
- Budget and financial constraints. How much can you spend on web development? For what are you willing to pay?
- Team size. How many developers will you need?
- Timeframe and deadline. When do you need the website up and running? Based on the project, how long is the estimated time for completion?
- Tech know-how. How much do you know about website design or development? Can you realistically manage such a team?
Summing Up
There is no one-size-fits-all formula for website development services. Instead, use all of this information to help you weigh your options and make the best business decision. If you need more information about outsourcing, Digital Authority Partners (DAP) can provide the necessary insights. Contact us to discuss how we can help you.Want To Meet Our Expert Team?
Book a meeting directly here
Related Articles
Marketing & SEO
Oct 6, 2025
Is A Chicago Fractional CMO Worth It?
Chicago thrives on momentum, blending innovation with tradition to create endless growth opportunities. Competition i...
Business Strategy
Oct 6, 2025
Chicago eCommerce SEO: How Local Stores Compete with National Brands
SEO gives local stores a megaphone through visibility, traffic, and monitored growth. With the U.S. eCommerce market ...
Business Strategy
Oct 6, 2025
Strategic Email Marketing For B2B SaaS Companies With A Fractional CMO
B2B SaaS companies can cut through marketing noise with the help of a fractional chief marketing officer, or FCMO. An...
