For most startups, software development outsourcing is no longer a question of if, but how. Between tight funding rounds, shifting roadmaps, and limited in-house bandwidth, founders need external help—fast.

That’s where the choice kicks in: staff augmentation or full outsourcing? Both are popular paths for outsourcing software development. Both offer access to talent, flexibility, and scalability. But which one really fits your product vision, hiring pace, and growth pressure?

Let’s unpack it.