Small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) are always finding ways to improve their IT (information technology) teams without breaking the bank. One effective strategy is combining roles that traditionally require separate skill sets, such as database management and coding or application development.
This approach streamlines operations and provides flexibility, especially when leveraging remote staffing or offshore IT teams. In this blog, we’ll explore why combining or cross-skilling these roles makes sense, the benefits for SMEs, and how remote and offshore solutions can help businesses thrive.
Why Combine Database Management and Coding Roles?
In many information technology (IT) environments, especially those focused on back-end development, the lines between database management and coding often blur.
Developers frequently interact with databases, writing SQL queries, designing database schemas, and even performing basic database administration tasks.
For example, a developer building an e-commerce platform might need to create a database schema to store product information, write queries to retrieve customer data, and optimize database performance.
For SMEs, hiring a dedicated Database Administrator (DBA) may not be feasible due to budget constraints. Businesses can ensure that their IT teams are versatile and capable of handling multiple responsibilities by cross-skilling database management and coding roles.
This approach is particularly beneficial for companies with limited resources, as it allows them to maximize the value of each hire.
Benefits of Combining These Roles for SMEs
Let’s explore how cross-skilling IT roles such as database management and coding into a single position offers a range of advantages for SMEs to stay competitive.
- Cost Efficiency
Hiring one professional who can handle both database management and coding tasks can significantly reduce payroll expenses. Instead of paying two salaries—one for a developer and another for a DBA—businesses can invest in a single, multi-skilled individual. This is especially advantageous for SMEs operating on tight budgets.
- Streamlined Communication
When one person or a small team handles both database and coding tasks, there are fewer handoffs between departments. This streamlined communication can lead to faster project completion and fewer errors, as there’s no need to coordinate between separate databases and development teams.
- Flexibility
Developers with database skills are more versatile and can adapt to a wider range of tasks.
For instance, if a project requires both application development and database optimization, a single professional can handle both without the need for additional resources.
- Remote Staffing Advantage
Remote staffing has made it easier than ever to access professionals with combined skill sets. SMEs can hire remote developers who are proficient in both coding and database management, often at a lower cost than hiring locally. This is particularly useful for businesses looking to scale their IT capabilities without breaking the bank.
Companies like iSWERK offer comprehensive remote staffing solutions, providing access to skilled English-speaking professionals in the Philippines, a country renowned for its cost-effective and skilled workforce.
Challenges and How to Overcome Them
While cross-skilling database management and coding roles offers numerous benefits, it’s not without its challenges. Here are some potential hurdles and how to address them:
- Finding Candidates with Both Skill Sets
Not all developers have experience with database management, and not all DBAs are proficient in coding. To overcome this, businesses can:
Train Existing Staff: Invest in training programs to upskill current employees.
Hire Remote Professionals: Look for remote or offshore candidates who already possess the required combination of skills.
Outsource to Specialized Teams: Partner with IT staffing agencies or offshore teams that specialize in providing multi-skilled professionals.
- Managing Workload
Cross-skilling roles can lead to an increased workload for individual employees. To prevent burnout, businesses should:
Set Clear Priorities: Ensure that tasks are prioritized based on business needs.
Leverage Automation: Use tools and software to automate repetitive tasks, such as database backups or code testing.
Hire Additional Support: If the workload becomes too heavy, consider hiring part-time or freelance professionals to assist.
How Remote Staffing and Offshore IT Roles Fit In
Remote staffing IT) roles have revolutionized the way businesses approach staffing, especially for SMEs. Here’s how they can help businesses optimize their IT teams:
- Access to a Global Talent Pool
By hiring remotely or offshore, businesses can tap into a global talent pool of professionals with diverse skill sets. This makes it easier to find candidates who are proficient in both database management and coding.
- Cost Savings
Offshore IT professionals often come at a lower cost compared to local hires, without compromising on quality. This is particularly beneficial for SMEs looking to reduce expenses while maintaining high standards of work. iSWERK offers access to a pool of highly skilled experts from the Philippines, helping businesses stay ahead of competitors.
- 24/7 Productivity
Offshore teams in different time zones can provide round-the-clock productivity. For example, while your local team is offline, your offshore team can continue working on database optimization or coding tasks, ensuring faster project completion.
- Scalability
Remote and offshore teams offer scalability, allowing businesses to quickly scale up or down based on project requirements. This flexibility is invaluable for SMEs that experience fluctuating workloads.
Summary and Insights
Cross-skilling database management and coding or application development roles is a smart strategy for SMEs looking to optimize their information technology (IT) teams. It offers cost efficiency, streamlined communication, and flexibility, making it an ideal solution for businesses with limited resources.
Additionally, remote staffing and offshore IT roles provide access to a global talent pool, cost savings, and scalability, further enhancing the benefits of this approach. By partnering with companies like iSWERK, SMEs can leverage these advantages to build a versatile, cost-effective IT team that drives their business forward.
Ready to optimize your IT team?
Contact iSWERK to learn how you can access skilled professionals who combine database management and coding expertise at a fraction of the cost.