smartData follows two common approaches for engaging clients in project development: Fixed Cost or Time and Materials. However, we also recommend another, often overlooked method: the Full-Time Equivalent model (FTE).

What is an FTE model?
A Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) is a unit that indicates the total workload of a single team member across various contexts, often measuring a person’s involvement in a project. An FTE of 1.0 is equivalent to one full-time person, and an FTE of 0.5 equals half of a full workload.

It is common for FTEs to be available for commitments of half-time (80 hours/month) or full-time (160 hours/month). If a client needs additional FTEs, they can be provided with a mutual agreement and proper notice. Other team members, such as a frontend developer, UI/UX designer, tester, network support, or solution architect/consultant, could be available on an uncommitted basis and billed per hour.

Benefits of FTEs:

Consider investing in an FTE if you have:

• A robust and trustworthy relationship with the partnering Web development org.
• A large, in-depth project in your hand that will keep 1-2 people busy for at least 6-12 months.
• Considered hiring employees to do the work

When software projects require resource expansion, the FTE model minimises the risk. Especially when fluid and agile requirements are the way to go- having an extra pair of hands-on board for a defined timeline and price is a good option. The person will be under contract and client team direction like any of the client’s employees. At the end of the project, with proper notice of 30-45 days to smartData, you can reduce your team without the hassle and negative effect of laying off an employee.