CTOs are among one of the first hires in a company. Even in companies that aren’t focused on technology as their core product, that product may be delivered or alerted by technology. However, CTOs, beginning senior-level people, come with a hefty price tag. If you’re a Startup or even a small company, finding, hiring, and ultimately paying for a full-time CTO may be out of reach.

Instead of a traditional hire and the baggage that comes with it, many companies start by hiring a factional CTO. These CTOs work with companies as needed, anywhere from a few days a week to once a month. They customize their time to meet the company’s needs and adjust as needed.  This allows flexibility for the company as unexpected demands from customers cause staffing bottlenecks. A fractional CTO can be hired, ramped up, or let go with little notice and zero liability; taking risk away from the company.

Fractional CTOs are heavyweight producers and lightweight burdens.

When a company examines the pros and cons of a factional CTO, it may be hard-pressed to find a con. Even the payroll is lower, as there is no payroll tax, no employee benefits, and no health insurance costs. Fractional CTOs are heavyweight producers and lightweight burdens. Perhaps the only perceved con is that they are not as committed to your company as a full-time employee. However, that would only make sense if full-time employees always performed exceptionally well and never left the company.

When choosing a factional employee, no matter if it’s Agile CTOs or another firm, consider their dedication to your company, the depth of their skills in your area, and, of course, overall costs.