July 7th, 2009
3 Factors to Consider Before Becoming a Freelance Software Developer
As more and more people around the world understand how they can use software to grow their business, the demand for custom software continues to grow. Individuals and small businesses cannot afford to hire companies to develop software for them. Due to this, they prefer to hire individual freelance software developers to do the work for them. People with good software development and marketing skills can become freelance software developers and be their own boss. Though this looks like a good option initially, you must consider the following three factors before taking your first step as freelance software developer.
Difficulties in working alone: Freelance software developers work from their home as a single person army. Apart from developing software, they have to manage other tasks like investigating new prospects, getting requirements and project management. This might look exciting initially but after some time, people tend to get bored of doing one or the other task. For example, if you are a good programmer, you might get bored of work related to marketing. Thus, if you are thinking of becoming freelancer, then it’s very important for you to learn different ways to have fun at work and keep yourself active.
Lack of knowledge support: When you work in any medium sized organization, you can always approach any senior member in your team for help if you are facing some technical difficulties. While working as a freelance software developer, you may not find this kind of support as you would be working alone. You must be good at finding out solutions to all the problems yourselves. In other words, you should know how to use different forums and search engines effectively. It’s also a good idea to keep contacts with your old colleagues and friends who have worked on similar domain.
Money: In the game of business, cash is the king. You have to pay your bills and support your family too. It is very important to know that becoming a freelance software developer and becoming your own boss doesn’t mean that you will become rich overnight. Also, you will not be flooded with lots of good paying clients for the first few months. You need to have enough of saving (cash in your bank account) to support all your financial needs during this time period. Also, be extremely careful while spending your money as during this initial time period, money in account is your limited resource.
If you like solving puzzles or know when to take break and how to enjoy it, you won’t have any problems in working alone. It’s a good idea to take breaks in between and play some indoor or outdoor games. Participate in forums and get yourself involved in some open source projects. This will help you to learn how to handle some of the technical issues. Also, if you want to become freelance software developer, then plan well in advance. Don’t leave your current job until you have at least one paying client or have enough money in your bank account to support your financial needs for the first few months.