Pros and Cons of a Part-Time DevOps in a Different Time Zone

Pros and Cons of a Part-Time DevOps in a Different Time Zone

Hiring a part-time DevOps in a different time zone can be a good option for companies that need to improve their DevOps practices but don’t have the resources or budget to hire a full-time in-house DevOps. However, there are pros and cons to this approach, especially when there is a time zone difference between the company and the DevOps.

Pros:

1. Cost Savings: Hiring a part-time DevOps in a different time zone can be a cost-effective solution for companies. This is especially true if the cost of living is lower in the DevOps’s location, which can help reduce the overall salary expenses for the company.
2. Availability: With a DevOps in a different time zone, companies can have someone available to provide DevOps support 24/7. This can be especially useful for companies with global customers or operations that need DevOps support outside of regular business hours.
3. Improved DevOps Practices: Having a DevOps in place can help companies improve their DevOps practices and resolve any issues that engineers may be facing. This can help improve the overall efficiency and productivity of the company.

Cons:

1. Communication Challenges: With a time zone difference between the company and the DevOps, communication can be a challenge. Even with a 2-hour communication overlap, misunderstandings and miscommunications can still occur, which can impact the effectiveness of the DevOps support.
2. Quality Control: Ensuring quality control for a DevOps in a different time zone can also be challenging. It can be difficult to monitor the DevOps’s work and ensure that it meets the desired quality standards, especially if there are language or cultural barriers.
3. Dependence on External Resources: Companies that rely on a part-time DevOps in a different time zone can become dependent on external resources, which can be a disadvantage in the long-term. If the DevOps experiences unexpected problems or is unavailable, this can disrupt the company’s operations and impact the efficiency of the development process.

In conclusion, hiring a part-time DevOps in a different time zone can be a good option for companies that need to improve their DevOps practices but don’t have the resources or budget to hire a full-time in-house DevOps. However, companies must be aware of the potential challenges, such as communication difficulties, quality control issues, and dependence on external resources, and take steps to mitigate these risks. Learn how we mitigate these risks by contacting us now!