In-House vs. Outsource - Which is Better?

As a PIO I have regularly contracted outside services, yet this question is fairly simple. In-house is always better. And that's coming from me, a part-time freelancer who values having a side gig.

The truth is both are essential, especially for under-resourced offices. But make no mistake about it, in-house is always the desired method of production. Let's compare.

1. Cost Factor

Firstly, we have to consider the cost factor. While contracted services may (sometimes) be more cost-effective, in-house projects are easier to control fiscally. With in-house production, there are no unexpected additional costs that can arise during creation. This level of financial control can be crucial for organizations working within a tight budget. I often had to review and negotiate contracts, which can get complex. As a manager, it is wise to make sure the contract and the contractor are a fit good fit for your organization.

2. Monitoring

Secondly, the ability to track the progress of a project is essential. Outsourced projects can be more difficult to monitor. Location logistics can hinder progress and potentially cause delays, breaching deadline requirements. In contrast, in-house projects are easily tracked and proximity fosters on-the-fly editing during the production process. An employee working in-house has a direct connection with their manager, allowing seamless communication and adaptability.

3. Audience Connection

Lastly, audience familiarity is perhaps the most important factor to consider. In-house production is organizationally aware and community-centric. Employees working in-house have a deeper understanding of how to convey messaging to their citizens. They can infuse the project with a local flare that resonates with the audience. This connection is crucial in providing the nuances of the project that truly speak to the citizens. In contrast, contracted services may lack this local connection and may struggle to effectively communicate to the audience.

The Wrap-Up: Whether it is photography, social media, writing, or video your employees will provide a better more efficient product. After all, communication is about messaging, and effectiveness is achieved when the messenger has a connection to the audience. Employees have a deep understanding of the organization and community making them ideal for creating impactful and meaningful communication projects. So, when it comes to choosing between in-house creation and contracted services, in my opinion, the clear advantage lies with in-house for its cost efficiency, ease of monitoring, and strong community connection.

You can read more about this topic on LinkedIn.