Posted by: Ainsley McWilliams
19 May 2023
Consider working with an Umbraco Partner if you are starting a new project or need support, maintenance, and hosting. Here are some reasons why:
Expertise and experience
An Umbraco Platinum Partner has a team of experts with web development and extensive platform knowledge. They work with various clients and can provide valuable insights and recommendations based on their experience.
A partner pays an annual fee for credits. Users exchange credits for services like training.
The partnership provides official verification of their skills and expertise. This is an indicator of the good relationship they have with the software.
Faster development
Working with a partner can speed up web development. Team members understand the platform and can identify solutions to problems that arise.
Access to the latest features and updates
The project team has access to features and updates from Umbraco HQ. This means they can help you stay ahead of the curve and ensure your website is always up-to-date. Partners get early experience with new Umbraco products and releases, allowing our engineers to build you the correct solution.
Ongoing support and maintenance
An Umbraco Partner can provide website support and maintenance to ensure stability and security, saving time and money. There is no need to maintain the site yourself. HQ support and efficient handling of code issues in the Umbraco core, enabling a partner to find solutions faster.
Partnership and collaboration
Working with a Platinum Partner is a true partnership. They understand your business and goals and develop a website that meets your needs. This collaboration leads to better results and a positive working relationship.
Umbraco Platinum Partners commit to the continuous education of their developers through mandatory training courses.
Risks of Working with a Freelance Umbraco Developer or an Agency that employs contractors
Yes, developers can indeed self-certify, and many freelancers and contractors exist. Working with a freelance Umbraco developer can be cost-effective, but knowing the potential risks is essential.
Lack of accountability
Freelance developers may not complete your project to the expected results.
Lack of experience or expertise
It is unlikely that a freelance developer will have the same level of knowledge and experience as a highly trained Umbraco team.
Multiple projects
A freelancer or contractor may be managing multiple projects without the support of a team. Project teams consist of project managers, user experience specialists, a team of developers, quality assurance, and infrastructure engineers.
Security
Access to sensitive information and code may be a concern when working with a freelance developer or an agency that hires contractors.
Shared knowledge
Working with freelancers or contractors means that when they complete work on your project the knowledge of the project often leaves with them.
Minimising risk
To minimise these risks, vet potential freelance developers and agency contractors. Establish clear communication channels, and protect your intellectual property through contracts and non-disclosure agreements.
Choosing a partner, you work with a team of highly skilled developers to deliver the best solution for your project. Good agencies make sure to share the knowledge of your solution across the team. This avoids silos and knowledge gaps.
Thoroughly vet potential freelance developers and agency contractors, establish clear communication channels, and protect your intellectual property through contracts and non-disclosure agreements.
Why is GrowCreate an Umbraco Platinum Partner?
Good question. We have been an Umbraco agency since 2012. Over that time, we have invested heavily in our Umbraco capabilities, and the group is keen to continue to do so.
The new Umbraco Platinum Partnership offering enables us to exchange credits for training, which can only be good. It means we get to double down as Umbraco-certified developers and upskill our team through Continuous Professional Development.
Umbraco training
Extending the Umbraco back office
Do you have a question about Umbraco Partners?
GrowCreate is the UK’s first Umbraco Gold Partner and is here to support digital teams with Umbraco development, support and maintenance. Contact Ainsley McWilliams and ask anything.