// FDE BUILD VS. BUY
Choose the model that matches the ownership problem.
Hiring is usually the right long-term answer. The question is whether production should wait. A Build-to-Hire pod bridges that gap when the work is urgent, measurable, and transferable.
Decision rule
Use a pod only when delay costs more than the bridge, there is a clear production outcome, and a permanent ownership path exists.
| Model | Best for | Delivery starts | Outcome ownership | Main risk |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Permanent hiring | Long-term ownership and durable internal capability | After sourcing and onboarding | Your permanent team | Production work waits unless internal capacity exists |
| Contract staffing | Adding an individual to an already well-managed backlog | After sourcing and onboarding | Usually the customer manager | Capacity without accountable delivery or transfer design |
| Traditional consultancy | Broad transformation, strategy, or multi-workstream programs | After discovery and procurement | Shared, often partner-led | Heavy process and potential long-term dependency |
| Build-to-Hire FDE pod | Urgent production work that must transfer to a future team | After focused scope validation | Solertiq during delivery, then your named owner | Requires access, sponsor attention, and explicit exit criteria |
// USE A BUILD-TO-HIRE POD WHEN
An active customer or production initiative is waiting
The blocker has a measurable acceptance test
A technical sponsor can provide context and access
The customer intends to own the system permanently
// DO NOT USE A POD WHEN
The request is strategy-only with no implementation owner
There is no system, workflow, customer, or measurable outcome
The work is indefinite staff augmentation
The customer cannot provide access or an ownership path
Want to model the economics first?
Open Cost Calculator Compare hiring delay, recruiter cost, and a temporary bridge scenario.
// DECISION ASSESSMENT
Get a recommendation grounded in the actual blocker.
The assessment can recommend hiring only, a production sprint, a Build-to-Hire pod, or no engagement.