As always, there is no final answer to this question. Both options have pros and cons, depending on your company's needs and capabilities.
Building and maintaining an in-house R&D team requires long-term commitment and investment. Inhouse R&D services may be cost-effective only when research is conducted over an extended period of time, and you can sustain and manage the R&D team accordingly. On the other hand, having an in-house R&D team may provide a level of flexibility, allowing the team to adapt and switch tasks relatively quickly. However, it's important to note that rapidly expanding or shrinking the team and teaching them new skills overnight may pose challenges.
On the other hand, outsourced R&D provides access to specialised expertise. This can include technical skills, technologies, and resources. Furthermore, it can be a cost-effective option, as it eliminates the need for the company to invest in developing an R&D team in-house and allows the team to scale dynamically according to current needs. Outsourced R&D can also be a time-efficient option, as the company can outsource specific projects or tasks and focus on other core business areas.
The decision between in-house or outsourced R&D depends on your needs. If control during the design process is crucial to you, in-house R&D is worth considering. However, it is essential to note that choosing outsourced services with a collaborative software development company does not necessarily mean less control and weakened communication. So if you are looking for expertise and want to save time and money, opting for outsourced Research & Development services may be the best option.