First, let's understand what each team member does for your tech product:
Fractional CPTO (Chief Product & Technology Officer)
A part-time executive who provides strategic technology and product leadership. They make technical decisions, oversee development, and help define what to build. Always works locally with your business.
Product Manager
Acts as the bridge between your vision and the technical team. They define what features to build, prioritize tasks, and ensure the product meets your business goals. Think of them as the project coordinator.
Designer
Creates the visual look and user experience of your product. They design how users interact with your app or website, making it beautiful and easy to use. Usually needed at the beginning of the project.
Full-stack Developer
Builds your entire product from front to back. They create what users see (frontend) and the behind-the-scenes systems (backend) that make everything work. They're like the construction workers of your digital product.
Select the team structure that best fits your needs:
Local Team, Self-Managed
Local Team, Expert-Managed
Offshore Team, Self-Managed
Offshore Team, Expert-Managed
This step only applies to offshore teams. Let's understand the two employment options:
COR - Contractor of Record
Team members work as independent contractors. You contract directly with each person and handle payments yourself.
EOR - Employer of Record
A third-party company legally employs the team members on your behalf. They handle all employment responsibilities.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Factor | COR | EOR |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Team Quality | Experienced freelancers | Stable professionals |
| Retention | Project-based | Long-term |
| Job Security (for team) | Project-based | High |
| Compliance Risk | Higher (you handle) | Lower (handled by EOR) |
| Employer Control | Direct contractor relationship | Managed through EOR |
| Benefits | None (contractor responsible) | Health, vacation, sick leave |
| Paid Time Off | Negotiable | Included |
| Take-Home Pay (for team) | Higher | Lower |
| Flexibility (for team) | High | Structured |
| Admin Work (for you) | More setup | Minimal |
Your Selected Configuration
Assumptions
Cost Assumptions:
Designer Role: Calculated as ongoing monthly cost but typically needed only for the first 1-2 months of the project for initial design work.
Geographic Rates: Offshore rates based on Eastern Europe/Latin America. Onsite rates based on mid-tier US/UK/Australia markets.
Experience Level: All rates assume mid-senior level professionals (3-7 years experience).
Currency: All costs shown in USD. Actual rates may vary based on specific requirements, team experience, and market conditions.
Additional Costs: Rates don't include potential setup fees, tools/software licenses, or project management tools that may be required.