Setting up a distributed team is not as easy as it might seem. It requires time, patience, and a certain level of commitment. For instance, we can consider the example of a startup. It can only succeed if the first few people give it their best effort. A similar concept applies to a distributed engineering team. The first step to take is to fully analyze and scrutinize your hiring practices.
Building a distributed engineering team can be as complex as organizing an in-office team. Before picking the right people to become a part of your team, you should keep a few qualities in mind. A software engineer who has already done remote work would be ideal. The ability to manage things on their own is an essential characteristic.
Communication is another aspect which is very important. Since it is a distributed engineering team, the members will be from various areas. This means differences in the time zones and routines of individuals. Being able to communicate and network will keep the team stable.
Promoting virtual water cooler culture can also be beneficial. It encourages sharing of feedback, views, and generation of ideas. This is crucial in developing an understanding between teammates. Therefore, it will result in growth.
Now coming to the advantages of choosing to build a distributed engineering team, we shall discuss some.
A Cost-Effective Solution
In terms of saving extra expenses, distributed engineering teams prove to be a better solution. The money that could’ve been spent on utility bills, office space, transportation, etc can be utilized somewhere else. For instance, a startup can focus more on marketing and growing its team. All sorts of businesses, especially small ones, can save on additional costs. These include training programs and finding the right staff.
Larger Recruiting Pool
One of the biggest advantages of a distributed engineering team is the options you can find online. A startup leader or a business owner is exposed to a diverse group of people. This includes experts in the most remote locations that can work at a reasonable hourly rate. When we talk about living expenses, many tech locations tend to be pricey.
By focusing on the option of outsourcing, you do not have to worry about the issue of relocating. The staff will be available according to the company’s needs without any extra hassles. It does not only improve the variety of software developers or engineers available. The opportunities available for educated people in less-developed areas also increase.
Productivity
The myth here is that distributed employees might not be as productive as an in-house team. This is not correct at all. First of all, by being a part of a distributed team you can also give time to other tasks. Having multiple forms of work can be useful for many. In fact, it entirely depends on the person who’s part of the team. In addition, some companies offer flexible working hours. This proves to be beneficial for many.
Plus, the employees do not have to worry about things such as dealing with traffic in the morning, commute, and lunch expenses. According to the Huffington Post, long commutes are big hits on health and productivity. With these types of costs significantly reduced, productivity becomes better. Another thing is that the employee has the freedom to choose where to work. This decreases stress levels thus maximizing focus and concentration.
Quality of life
Facing long commutes can be bad for mental health. One can stay connected with family and friends yet work at the same time. This is a huge benefit especially for parents with young children, new mothers, and disabled employees. It means they do not have to shift locations according to their workplace or struggle to find transport on a daily basis.
For employees who are part of distributed engineering teams, their daily schedule becomes more flexible. Time can be devoted to other activities such as exercise, childcare, or care of the elderly. Once you choose the option of working in a distributed team, there is no going back. The pros definitely outweigh the cons.
