Outsourcing web development involves hiring third-party experts to create secure and efficient web solutions.
It’s more cost-effective than hiring in-house teams and ensures faster time-to-market and access to a much wider pool of experts.
For example, a startup launching a marketplace platform might outsource the entire web development process—from initial wireframing and UI/UX design to back-end development, testing, and deployment. Or, a company launching a subscription-based platform might outsource the development of its payment gateway and user dashboard to a skilled team.
By partnering with the right team, you gain the flexibility to build high-quality software quickly and cost-effectively.
Let’s explore how web development outsourcing works, its benefits, the factors affecting costs, and proven steps to find the right team.
Also, discover how Distillery can be your best web development partner.
| Further Reading: Explore the Benefits of Custom Software Development and how to make it work. Evaluate whether IT Outsourcing is Right For Your Business, which IT functions you can outsource, and more. |
This Article Contains:
What Is Web Development Outsourcing?
What Web Development Services Can You Outsource?
What Does a Web Development Outsourcing Team Look Like?
What are the Steps Involved in a Typical Web Development Project?
When Should You Outsource Web Development?
3 Ways to Outsource Web Development: Onshore, Nearshore, Offshore (Pros & Cons)
The Best Nearshore Web Development Outsourcing Partner – Distillery
8 Convincing Reasons to Outsource Web Development Services
How Much Does Web Development Outsourcing Cost?
8 Steps to Finding the Right Web Development Outsourcing Team
What Red Flags Should You Watch Out For When Hiring a Web Development Outsourcing Team?
How to Ensure Your Web Development Outsourcing Strategy Is a Success
What Is Web Development Outsourcing?
Web development outsourcing involves hiring third-party service providers to handle web design and development projects.
From crafting bespoke websites to developing intricate web applications, businesses can leverage external expertise for custom web development, eCommerce solutions, mobile app creation, and more.
It includes front-end and back-end development, engaging user experiences, and robust server-side functionalities. Services could extend to API development, SaaS projects, quality assurance, and even digital marketing strategies to enhance online presence.
What Web Development Services Can You Outsource?
Some of the web development services you can outsource are:
Front-end Development Services
- Front-end development
- Responsive design implementation
- Progressive Web App (PWA) development
- UI/UX design
Back-end Development Services
- Back-end development
- Database design and management
- API development and integration
- Payment gateway integration
- Security auditing and implementation
Full-Stack and Custom Development Services
- Full-stack development
- Custom web application development
- E-commerce development
- Content Management System (CMS) development
Maintenance and Optimization Services
- Website or web application maintenance and support
- Performance optimization
- Migration and upgrade services
Quality Assurance and Hosting Services
- QA testing and debugging
- Cloud hosting setup and management
Technical SEO
- Technical Search Engine Optimization (SEO) implementation
What Does a Web Development Outsourcing Team Look Like?
The composition of a web development outsourcing team will vary depending on the project’s size, complexity, and specific requirements.
A typical team may consist of one or more of these specialists:
- Project Manager (PM): Oversees the project, communicates with stakeholders, and makes sure timelines and goals are met.
- Business Analyst (BA): Gathers requirements, defines project scope, and ensures the final product meets business objectives.
- UI/UX Designer: Creates user-friendly and visually appealing designs, wireframes, and prototypes.
- Front-end Developer: Develops the visual elements and optimizes them for responsiveness across devices.
- Back-end Developer: Develops server-side logic, databases, and APIs for seamless functionality.
- Full-Stack Developer (Optional): Handles front-end and back-end development for smaller or integrated projects.
- Quality Assurance (QA) Specialist: Tests the product for bugs, functionality, and performance issues for a flawless release.
- DevOps Engineer (Optional): Manages deployment, hosting, and cloud infrastructure for scalability and reliability.
- SEO Specialist: Optimizes the site for search engines.
- Security Specialist: Makes the web solution secure from vulnerabilities and complies with security standards.
- Data Analyst (Optional): Works on analytics integration and performance tracking.
What are the Steps Involved in a Typical Web Development Project?
The development plan can vary depending on the software’s complexity, security requirements, etc. But here are the typical steps:
Planning and Requirement Analysis
- Define project goals and objectives.
- Gather and document requirements from stakeholders.
- Conduct market research and competitor analysis.
- Create a web app development plan that includes features, tech stack, project timeline, milestones, resource allocation, budget, and key performance indicators (KPIs).
Conceptualization and Design
- Develop wireframes and mockups for key pages.
- Design UI/UX for user-friendly and visually appealing interfaces.
- Finalize the design after client feedback and approval.
Development
- Build the user interface with a responsive design.
- Create server-side logic, databases, and APIs.
- Connect the front-end and back-end, and integrate third-party tools or APIs.
Testing and Quality Assurance
- Conduct functionality testing (form submissions, buttons, etc.).
- Perform performance testing to guarantee speed and scalability.
- Run security testing to identify vulnerabilities.
- Cross-browser and cross-device compatibility testing.
Deployment
- Set up hosting and domain configurations.
- Deploy the website/application to a live server.
- Verify that all integrations are functioning in the live environment.
Maintenance and Updates
- Monitor the website for bugs or errors.
- Optimize performance periodically.
- Update features or add new ones based on user feedback.
- Maintain regular security updates and backups.
An experienced web development outsourcing team like Distillery will follow this seamless flow from planning to delivery while addressing quality, performance, and long-term maintenance.
When Should You Outsource Web Development?
Working with an outsourced web development company could be a total game changer for your company in the following cases:
- When you want to control web app development costs by minimizing the expenses related to traditional/in-house hiring and training.
- When your in-house team lacks specialized expertise in current web design technologies or frameworks.
- When you need to meet tight deadlines or respond to market demands swiftly.
- When you need to scale development efforts rapidly due to business growth or web development project complexity.
- When you prefer to focus on core business functions, outsourcing can offload the workload of web design and development, and project management.
- When you seek enhanced quality and reliability in your web projects through an advanced tech stack and innovative solutions.
- When you want to reduce scalability and maintenance risks by partnering with an outsourced web development company with the necessary infrastructure.
Now, there are three geographical models you can choose from when outsourcing web design and development.
3 Ways to Outsource Web Development: Onshore, Nearshore, Offshore (Pros & Cons)
Here’s a close look at each and their benefits and challenges:
1. Onshore Web Development Outsourcing
Onshore outsourcing involves hiring external development teams or outsourcing companies within the same country or geographic region.
Companies with large software development budgets wanting to prioritize real-time collaboration and local compliance frequently choose onshore website development.
Pros of Onshore Web Development Outsourcing
- Ease of communication and understanding due to shared culture and language.
- No time difference fosters real-time collaboration and updates between teams.
- Ensures legal compliance as software development teams have a better understanding of local laws.
Cons of Onshore Web Development Outsourcing
- Labor and operational costs are higher due to the high costs of living.
- Economic fluctuations in the US market can impact business costs and stability.
- Limited talent pool since you’re solely relying on local software development experts.
- Fierce local competition for top talent makes it difficult to retain skilled professionals.
2. Nearshore Web Development Outsourcing
Nearshore outsourcing involves outsourcing web development to a nearby country or a neighboring geographic region. For example, if a US company outsources to Distillery, we can easily assemble a top-notch development team based in Mexico.
Nearshore outsourcing offers a cost-effective solution, cultural alignment, and easy collaboration with your outsourcing team.
Pros of Nearshore Web Development Outsourcing
- Lower labor and operational costs than onshoring.
- Ease of travel allows for in-person meetings and better relationship building.
- Similar time zones and cultural compatibility foster real-time communication and a shared understanding of work ethics.
Cons of Nearshore Web Development Outsourcing
- Compared to big offshore hubs like India or China, you can access only a limited talent pool of software development professionals.
- Language barriers may cause communication challenges and delays—unless you partner with a reputed web development outsourcing company.
3. Offshore Web Development Outsourcing
Offshore outsourcing involves hiring the development services of a third-party service provider located in a far-off country (e.g., Poland in Eastern Europe).
Companies opt to outsource web development to an offshore location to save costs, especially for complex, long-term projects.
Pros of Offshore Web Development Outsourcing
- Offshore hubs (like China and India) have a large pool of skilled software development experts.
- Time zone differences allow for round-the-clock productivity and support.
- Greater cost savings due to lower utility and infrastructure expenses in developing countries like the Philippines and India.
Cons of Offshore Web Development Outsourcing
- Communication issues due to limited English proficiency.
- Time zone differences can complicate shift scheduling and cause disruptions for both parties.
- Cultural disparities and varying work ethics can affect app development work quality and project alignment with business goals.
Clearly, nearshore web development outsourcing offers not only cost-effectiveness but also a cultural synergy with the US and better collaboration, making it the go-to choice for many companies.
So, what’s the easiest way to outsource web development services?
The Best Nearshore Web Development Outsourcing Partner – Distillery
Distillery is a trusted and reputed software development company that offers you the top-tier technical talent and engineering firepower you need to scale your teams.
We support our client’s growth by offering scalable software development services with a team of senior engineers and project leads experienced in various programming languages, tools, databases, and frameworks.
We offer two effective engagement models when you need to outsource web development:
1. Staff Augmentation
In the staff augmentation model, you augment your in-house development team with our talented team members (including software engineers, project manager, UI/UX experts, and more) to bridge skill gaps or alleviate workloads. It helps, especially if there’s a need for specialized skills that your current team lacks.
This model is ideal for short-term projects since payment is based on the time spent on your web development project. It is a flexible way to scale your team up or down as needed when you outsource web development.
2. Agile Development Teams
An agile development team model involves hiring our entire remote software development team to work exclusively on your software project, functioning as an extension of your in-house staff.
It’s suitable for continuous long-term projects and companies lacking time or resources to hire specialists internally.
Here’s our approach to delivering high-quality software development solutions:
- Our tailored Service Delivery Approach (SDA) guarantees swift delivery of outsourcing web development services tailored to your business demands.
- Our rigorous hiring process guarantees a team of experts with advanced skill sets — similar to local specialists. Our teams possess cross-functional skill sets, including cloud computing, QA, project management, and UX/UI design services.
- We maintain open and frequent communication with our clients.
Ready to explore nearshoring?
Contact us today to get started.
Now, let’s examine how outsourcing web development can benefit your business.
8 Convincing Reasons to Outsource Web Development Services
Choosing to outsource web development allows you to achieve high-quality results, faster delivery, and greater flexibility while avoiding the challenges of managing an in-house team.
Here are all the benefits:
1. Cost and Time Savings
Outsourcing web development reduces labor, operational, and overhead costs, especially when talent is sourced from countries with lower living expenses, like Argentina or Mexico.
For instance, the cost of hiring an experienced web application developer in Argentina ranges between $2 and $4 per hour, whereas in the US, it can cost $32 to $56.
Additionally, since you’ve outsourced specific web development tasks, your internal team has more time to focus on core business tasks.
2. Access to Expert Talent
Outsourcing web development lets you access a broader talent pool of professionals, offering diverse perspectives and expertise that may not be available in-house.
For example, the Latin American region is well known for its skilled IT workforce, with close to 1 million software developers involved in offshore development.
3. Flexible Team Scaling
Outsourcing web development services allows businesses to scale their development teams based on project needs.
For instance, an e-commerce company preparing for a holiday sales rush can outsource extra web developers from a web development company to manage the heightened traffic. They can then scale down during the off-season to optimize costs.
4. Streamlined Workflows
Outsourcing partners streamline workflows by implementing efficient processes, such as precise planning, systematic development, rigorous software testing, and continuous communication.
These measures accelerate web development project timelines, reduce costs, and boost overall productivity for the outsourcing company.
5. Access to the Latest Technology
Outsourced teams invest in and keep up with the latest web technologies, frameworks, and libraries. So, your projects will benefit from cutting-edge tools without you having to invest in them.
This will speed up the web development process and improve the efficiency and quality of your final product.
6. Enhanced Security
Outsourcing companies implement stringent security protocols to reduce the risks of cyberattacks and IP (intellectual property) theft. These protocols include data encryption, secure coding practices, and regular security audits.
This way, you can rest assured that your confidential data is protected, instilling trust and confidence among all stakeholders.
7. 24/7 Support
Outsourcing companies usually offer 24/7 support, ensuring timely assistance and issue resolution regardless of time zones.
This puts out fires swiftly and gives your users a seamless experience.
8. Faster Time-to-Market
Outsourcing web development can help you launch your product faster because:
- You can avoid lengthy recruitment processes.
- You can side-step learning curves since the external development team is highly experienced with the required tools, technologies, and processes.
- Your in-house app development team can work with the external one, picking up where the other left off on a working day.
Now, let’s look at another important consideration—the potential costs of outsourcing.
How Much Does Web Development Outsourcing Cost?
The cost of outsourcing website development depends on many factors, such as the location, web app development features, and the complexity of the web design services.
For example, depending on its complexity, a customized real estate website can vary quite a bit—between $1,000 and $15,000 or more.
Similarly, an e-commerce website can cost $10,000 — $250,000, while a custom medical website can range from $5,000 — $10,000.
Other factors that affect the web development cost include:
- Type of advanced app development technology used
- Non-functional web app requirements, like security and scalability
- Duration of the development process
- Number of team members in the app development team
- The skill level and expertise of the web developer team
With that aside, the next challenge in outsourcing web development services is to find the right team to execute your project.
8 Steps to Finding the Right Web Development Outsourcing Team
Follow this step-by-step action plan to find and hire your preferred outsourcing team:
1. Define Services Based on Your Project Complexity and Needs
Outline the app development services required for your web project, including website design, back-end integration, software testing, and ongoing maintenance.
2. Thoroughly Research the Potential Outsourcing Partner
Conduct thorough research on the web development outsourcing company and its industry reputation by reviewing its portfolio, client testimonials, case studies, and online reviews.
Also, evaluate their certifications and industry experience for credibility. Chat with previous clients to better understand their track record in app development, specifically inquiring about the technical challenges faced and how they overcame them.
Inquire about the technologies, tools, and methodologies the outsourcing provider uses and how they stay updated with the latest trends in web development.
3. Conduct a Discovery Call and Interview the Team
Schedule a discovery call with the potential outsourcing partner for a web project requirement discussion.
During the call, assess their:
- Understanding of your web project
- Quality assurance protocols (As for their quality assurance process, testing, and handling project hurdles.)
- Clarity and effectiveness in communication
- Technical expertise and relevant experience (Propose a technical app development challenge or problem, ask for their approach to solving it, and discuss the technical stack they recommend for your project and why.)
- Cultural fit and alignment with your company values
4. Select the Right Model and Type for Your Project Needs
Choose an outsourcing model that fits your web project requirements. For instance, you may want to choose an Agile web development team for projects like creating custom WordPress plugins.
Also, consider the geographical location of the outsourced team based on your time zone, project scope, and budget.
5. Sign an NDA to Prevent Data Leaks and IP Issues
Communicate and document security expectations with your outsourcing development partner to avoid ambiguity.
Ask about their data security measures, including encryption practices, data storage, and access protocols.
Always sign an NDA (non-disclosure agreement) with your outsourcing vendor before sharing sensitive information.
6. Outline the Time Frame and Budget
Be realistic and clearly define the expected web development project timeline.
Also, develop a thorough budget that accounts for hidden costs and encompasses all web development project elements, from the development process to testing and contingencies.
8. Implement SLAs to Enhance Accountability
Service-level agreements (SLAs) define web development project scope, deliverables, quality standards, and timelines.
Be sure to outline clearly the penalties for contract breaches, how you’ll resolve disagreements, and ways to tweak the agreement if needed.
9. Include Post-Launch Support Terms in Your Agreement
The agreement with your outsourcing partner should include ongoing maintenance and updates, ensuring your website remains competitive, secure, and functional. This includes regular security patches, feature updates, and performance optimizations.
Establish a clear framework for support, detailing response times, maintenance schedules, and update procedures.
What Red Flags Should You Watch Out For When Hiring a Web Development Outsourcing Team?
These are big non-nos when it comes to hiring your outsourcing team:
- Lack of a clear portfolio or case studies showcasing previous work.
- Poor communication or delayed responses during initial interactions.
- Absence of formal contracts or non-disclosure agreements (NDAs).
- Limited technical expertise in your required technologies or frameworks.
- Inadequate team size or resources to handle your project’s scope.
- No dedicated project manager or single point of contact.
- Inflexibility to scale resources or adapt to project changes.
- Overpromising results without demonstrating a realistic approach.
How to Ensure Your Web Development Outsourcing Strategy Is a Success
These tips will make sure your engagement goes smoothly without any hiccups. They will also help you integrate your outsourcing partners and in-house teams seamlessly.
- Set up regular meetings for updates and feedback.
- Use project management tools for clear progress tracking.
- Designate a single point of contact for smooth communication.
- Test the team’s capabilities and work process with a smaller pilot task before committing to a larger project.
- Treat the outsourcing team as an extension of your business.
- Provide timely feedback and involve them in decision-making.
- Regularly review milestones and test deliverables.
- Confirm adherence to coding standards, security practices, and performance benchmarks.
- Confirm maintenance, updates, and bug-fixing responsibilities.
- Establish a clear support agreement for post-launch services.
Ready To Outsource Your Web Development?
By outsourcing web development, you gain access to a large pool of skilled website development professionals easily.
It also helps you save time, reduce risks, and focus on your core business activities.
Nearshore outsourcing is a standout choice. It’s a cost-effective way to access a huge pool of talented experts. Contact Distillery right away for a smooth and top-notch nearshoring experience.
In case you have more questions regarding this strategy, we’ve got you covered below.
FAQs
1. How Do You Protect Your Intellectual Property When Outsourcing Web Development?
- Start by signing a comprehensive non-disclosure agreement (NDA) and a contract that explicitly grants you ownership of all deliverables, including source code.
- Choose a partner with a track record and emphasize that they use only licensed or open-source tools.
- Use secure collaboration platforms, restrict sensitive data access, and share information on a need-to-know basis.
- Register your IP, such as copyrights or patents, to strengthen legal protection.
- Conduct regular audits and include a clause for IP handover upon project completion or termination to retain full control.
2. What Should a Proposal From a Web Development Outsourcing Vendor Contain?
A vendor’s proposal should include:
- Their technical expertise, team composition, and relevant experience through case studies or portfolios.
- Transparent pricing, including payment terms and any additional costs.
- Details of the development process, tools, and methodologies used.
- A clear communication plan for updates and feedback.
- Legal aspects like intellectual property ownership, confidentiality (NDA), and termination clauses.
- Post-launch support plans, such as maintenance and updates.
3. What KPIs Should You Use To Measure An Outsourced Web Development Project’s Success?
These KPIs will help you evaluate the team’s performance in a well-rounded manner:
- Project Performance KPIs: On-time delivery, Milestone completion rate, Adherence to project scope
- Quality KPIs: Number of bugs/issues detected, Testing success rate, Code quality metrics
- Cost KPIs: Budget adherence, Cost per deliverable, Return on investment (ROI)
- Team Collaboration KPIs: Communication responsiveness, Feedback implementation rate, Client satisfaction score
- Technical KPIs: Website/application uptime, Load time and performance metrics, Security compliance
- Post-Launch KPIs: User satisfaction score, Maintenance request resolution time, Feature adoption rate
If you want to discuss your project requirements with an expert web development company right away, contact Distillery.