A strong freelancer can outperform a weak agency, and a specialised agency can be better when the project requires a larger multidisciplinary team.
When a freelancer makes sense
Direct contact, focused scope, faster decisions and one person who understands the full context can be valuable, especially when an internal developer or team can execute part of the work.
When an agency makes sense
An agency can fit projects that simultaneously require SEO, development, design, content and paid acquisition at a scale one person cannot reasonably cover.
Evaluate these criteria
- Who actually works on the account?
- Who implements recommendations?
- How quickly can priorities change?
- How is progress measured?
- Who owns the data and relationship?
A hybrid model can work well
A consultant can lead strategy and measurement while a developer, writer or specialist agency executes defined tasks. Responsibilities must be explicit.
Start by defining the scope and missing capabilities.
Discuss the project