Checklist
- Define the role precisely: stack, seniority, responsibilities, overlap hours.
- Choose a model: staff augmentation, dedicated team or project.
- Vet the partner: references from clients your size, security practices, attrition rates, who you’ll actually work with.
- Interview every developer yourself: a technical discussion plus a short paid task beats puzzles.
- Test communication: written English, clarity in standups, how they flag blockers.
- Start with a 2-week trial on real tickets.
- Contracts: IP assignment, NDA, data protection, replacement guarantees, notice periods.
- Onboard properly: access, docs, a buddy, and the same rituals as your local team.
Red flags
- You can’t meet the actual developers.
- Rates far below market for “senior” talent.
- No written process for replacing someone who isn’t working out.
