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Re:Launch HN: Astro (YC W21) – Build your own dev teams in L... by jokethrowaway on Wednesday June 22, 2022 @06:30PM (#31842693)
There is nothing stopping companies from hiring freelancers from Latin America, without adding another middleman (like your service) which will, of course, cost something.

Having tried this setup and having dealt with middlemen (eg. Pilot) and not, I can't say I noticed much difference with dealing with self employed.

Especially if the team members are senior, they're likely to know the ropes of setting up business in their country.

That said, hiring from Latin American has its challenges - the language barrier is not easy to overcome and the political instability can take a toll on your friends and coworkers (especially in these trying times).

Re:Launch HN: Astro (YC W21) – Build your own dev teams in L... by FrankLicea on Wednesday June 22, 2022 @11:12PM (#31844780)
Interesting experience! Would love to know more, if that's okay. How many freelancers did you manage? and how big was your team?

I think that a few freelancers are manageable (not sure if that applies to you!) But we've noticed companies that are managing engineering departments with ~50 or more and growing quickly really benefit. At that point both the HR and engineering department need something like logistics partner on the ground to coordinate meaningful benefits, specialized equipment (test devices, locked down laptops), help with company events, etc.