Elevate your team augmentation with Vention
Staff augmentation is a strategy businesses utilise to fill workforce gaps by engaging temporary workers, contractors, or consultants to support existing teams. Because let's be real: Hiring permanent employees doesn't offer the flexibility or cost efficiency needed for short-term projects. IT staff augmentation is the game-changer you need.
At Vention, our software development experts offer a wide range of skills,, including web, mobile, AI, VR, cloud computing, and cybersecurity. With various engagement models and contract lengths, we offer staff augmentation services in the UK, ensuring compliance with local regulations and business practices.
Our agile and robust solutions deliver superior security, optimised processes, and effortless integration with your existing team. Backed by a strong company culture and over twenty years of client success, our solutions propel your business to uncharted peaks.
IT staff augmentation in the United Kingdom: stats and trends
In recent years, the UK has seen an astronomical rise in demand for staff augmentation services. With the global IT staff augmentation market growing exponentially, the demand for flexibility, scalability, cost efficiency, and access to specialised skill sets is at an all-time high.
According to ManpowerGroup, an astounding 75 percent of employers struggle to fill vacancies. Countries with the highest talent scarcity include Japan, Germany, Ireland, Canada, Sweden, and the UK.
But what makes the UK unique when it comes to augmented staffing demands?
More SMEs
One attribute that makes the IT outsourcing market in the United Kingdom unique is the presence of many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). These companies often have limited IT resources and expertise and struggle to keep up with the latest technological developments.
Lower costs
Cost efficiency is often one of the drivers behind employing staff augmentation services, as it lets companies beef up their teams without breaking the bank or compromising flexibility and quality.
The trend toward digital transformation
The rise of digital transformation has increased demand for software team augmentation services as companies seek to leverage cutting-edge technologies to improve their business processes. This shift underscores the growing need for specialised expertise and adaptable resources in a rapidly evolving business landscape.
When do our IT staff augmentation services give you the edge?
Here are a few scenarios where augmented can be a superior alternative to perm hires:
Skill gaps
When your team needs a tech power-up (think expertise in new programming languages or frameworks), IT staff augmentation swoops in to bridge the skill divide without the long-term commitment of hiring new full-time employees.
Project deadlines
Tight deadlines closing in? If your current team can't sprint fast enough, augmented staff gives you the turbo boost to hit those finish lines on time. This is often a faster solution than recruiting and training permanent staff.
Scaling needs
During rapid growth, companies often need additional resources to handle increased workloads or expand into new markets. Staff augmentation allows companies to scale their projects up or down as needed, providing flexibility to adapt to business demands.
Cost efficiency
For projects where budget constraints are significant, staff augmentation is a cost-effective alternative to permanent hires. This approach allows companies to pay for additional resources only when needed, without the overhead associated with full-time employees.
Special projects
For projects that require specialised knowledge or a particular set of skills for a short duration, such as migrating to a new technology stack or developing a niche application, augmented staff can provide the expertise the existing team may not possess.
Continuous innovation
Today, continuous innovation is critical. Augmented staff injects fresh perspectives and the latest tech skills, ensuring your company stays competitive in fast-evolving industries.
What our experts say
Glyn Roberts
CTO of Digital Solutions
What our experts say
Staff augmentation provides an invaluable asset to teams by making highly skilled specialists accessible almost instantaneously.
These experts not only bring rich experience from tackling challenges in similar environments, but also adapt seamlessly to our clients' unique needs.
The flexibility of roles and seniority and the absence of long-term financial commitments allow our clients to progress efficiently and stay agile, focusing resources precisely where and when they are needed most."
IT staff augmentation in the United Kingdom: our expertise
We empower business leaders with the expertise they need to innovate faster, operate more efficiently, and ultimately increase revenue.
Decades of accumulated software expertise and flexible models ensure the right product the first time, every time — all while minimising launch speed and maximising your competitive edge.
Specialists available at Vention
Project managers
Business analysts
Tech and team leads
UI/UX designers
2D/3D artists
QA engineers
Software engineers
Solution architects
DevOps
On-demand specialised skills
Frontend
Backend
Full-stack
Manual testing
Test automation
Mobile (native and cross-platform)
Cloud computing
Data engineering
Databases
Cybersecurity
Salesforce
Product discovery workshops
Expertise in advanced technologies
Artificial intelligence
Machine learning
Computer vision
Natural language programming (NLP)
Data science
Blockchain
Augmented reality
Virtual reality
IoT
How to choose the right engagement model for your needs
One size does not fit all. We’re committed to building a team that aligns with your project goals, scope, team culture, and budget. That’s why we offer a variety of working models and team sizes:
IT staff augmentation
This option is ideal for companies that need additional resources temporarily without the commitment of hiring full-time staff. It offers flexibility and smooth collaboration with the client's existing team.
Pod teams are most suitable for complex projects that benefit from a multidisciplinary approach. They operate autonomously, but remain aligned with the client's overall goals. Pods offer a balanced mix of control and independence.
Outsourcing
This model works well for projects with clear objectives and deadlines. While less flexible for scaling and on-the-fly changes, outsourcing excels in delivering results within specified parameters.
Advantages of each staff augmentation model
Each model brings unique strengths to the table. Your project type, scope, and organisational needs will guide you to the perfect fit.
Staff augmentation
Pod team
Outsourcing
Definition
Staff augmentation
Adds external professionals to the project to fill skill gaps
Pod team
A self-sufficient, cross-functional group that can handle a complete project lifecycle
Outsourcing
A turnkey solution where an external team manages a project from start to finish
Team composition
Staff augmentation
Aligns with the client's existing team
Pod team
Composed of multiple roles, designed to be autonomous
Outsourcing
Typically, it doesn’t align with the client's team
Control and oversight
Staff augmentation
The client maintains a high degree of control
Pod team
Moderate to high control depending on the client's involvement
Outsourcing
Lower control, as the external team manages the project independently
Flexibility
Staff augmentation
High flexibility in scaling the team size up or down as needed
Pod team
Less flexible compared to augmentation; pods are usually stable in size
Outsourcing
Fixed scope and team size as agreed at the project's outset
Cost
Staff augmentation
Cost-effective for short-term needs; pay for specific expertise when needed
Pod team
Potentially cost-effective but requires more funding for an entire team
Outsourcing
Can be cost-effective for fixed projects, but changes to the project scope may incur extra costs
Scope of work
Staff augmentation
Designed to fill skill gaps and expand capacity
Pod team
Comprehensive, handles all aspects of a project from planning to delivery
Outsourcing
Limited to the predefined project scope
Suitability
Staff augmentation
Suitable for ongoing projects that require specific skills temporarily
Pod team
Ideal for projects requiring multidisciplinary skills and collaboration
Outsourcing
Best for projects with well-defined outcomes and timelines
Duration
Staff augmentation
Flexible; based on the client's needs
Pod team
Typically, medium to long-term engagements
Outsourcing
Fixed-term, usually aligned with the project's lifecycle
Integration with client teams
Staff augmentation
Seamless; augmented staff work as part of the client's team
Pod team
Partial integration; operates semi-independently, but can align with client teams
Outsourcing
Minimal to no integration; operates independently
Pitfalls of software engineering staff augmentation and how to overcome them
Challenge
Our solution
Communication barriers
Challenge
Time zone differences, language issues, and varying communication styles can obstruct effective collaboration
Our solution
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Provide communication and language training
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Use collaborative platforms for seamless interaction
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Establish clear communication protocols and regular meeting schedules
Quality control
Challenge
Maintaining consistent quality from augmented staff — particularly across multiple vendors — can be a challenge
Our solution
-
Implement strict quality assurance protocols like regular reviews and client-specific training
-
Utilise project managers or QA specialists to ensure ongoing compliance with quality standards
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Provide continuous feedback loops and performance monitoring
Security risks
Challenge
Introducing external team members can increase risks related to data security and intellectual property
Our solution
-
Conduct regular security and data protection training
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Utilise secure tools for management and communication
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Perform frequent security audits
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Implement robust access controls and encryption standards
Dependency
Challenge
Reliance on augmented staff can hinder a company’s ability to operate independently and transition away from using augmentation services
Our solution
-
Strategically plan staff augmentation timelines to boost client capabilities
-
Transfer knowledge through documentation, training, and collaborative projects to foster the client’s autonomy
Boost your team's expertise with our IT staff augmentation services.
How Vention can augment your software team
Collaboration, communication, and shared goals are the foundation of a successful partnership. We carefully vet our consultants to guarantee that their expertise meets — and exceeds — expectations and seamlessly interacts with your team.
Through comprehensive initial assessments, detailed consultations, and client reviews to ensure cultural compatibility, we’re dedicated to finding you the perfect matches.
Initial consultation
We start with an initial consultation to discuss the client's project requirements, challenges, and objectives. This helps us understand the technical needs, business goals, and cultural environment of the client's organisation.
Needs assessment
Next, we conduct a detailed assessment of the client’s existing team structure, tech stack, current technical landscape, and project timelines. This step also often involves discussions with key stakeholders and technical leads to pinpoint where team augmentation is needed.
Candidate selection
We then utilise a database of pre-vetted professionals to match the client's specific requirements. Our team selects candidates based on their skills, experience, and fit for the client's project and its values.
Client review and approval
The selected candidates are presented to the client for review. The client may conduct interviews or request further information to ensure the candidates meet their expectations.
Kick-off
Once the candidates are approved, they’re officially integrated into the client’s projects. During an intro meeting, the candidates are briefed on expectations, roles, and responsibilities and get acquainted with their team members.
Onboarding
Finally, the candidates go through an onboarding process tailored to the client’s operations, which includes familiarisation with the company’s work and communication processes, team dynamics, and project management tools.
Why Vention?
Looking for software team augmentation in London? Look no further.
Agile, highly motivated, and fully dedicated to your needs, we ensure our partners focus on outcomes, not timelines or processes. By choosing us, you won’t need to conform to the business landscape — we completely align with your business, offering solutions that make the industry play by your rules.
business domains covered
happy clients and thousands of completed projects
tech experts on demand
locations worldwide, including London, UK
years of software development experience
roles available for your project
Delivery on time, on budget, and on scope
An ISO 27001-certified software engineering company
Our approach to software development team augmentation
Client-centricity
We take the time to understand each project's specific needs. With a dedicated account management team based in London, we provide tailored solutions that align seamlessly with in-house teams and overall business goals.
Flexibility and scalability
Whether you need one additional developer or twenty for your project, we adjust swiftly and efficiently to scale our resources to the project's requirements.
Cultural fit
We don't just focus on technical skills. A major part of our selection process ensures a good cultural fit — crucial for smooth collaboration with the client’s in-house staff.
Efficiency and speed
Our augmentation services reduce project ramp-up time. We quickly assemble teams of skilled developers who match the project's technical and cultural needs, enabling faster development cycles and quicker time to market.
Security and compliance
Security and compliance are integral to our operations. Every team member stays current on the latest security practices and compliance standards relevant to our clients' industries. Whether it’s GDPR, HIPAA, or any other regulatory requirement, our teams handle sensitive data with the utmost integrity and highest security standards.
Quality assurance
Quality is our top priority in team augmentation services. Our professionals follow stringent quality assurance protocols for superior code and functionality.
Engineering peace of mind
Your peace of mind is at the forefront of our minds. Our top engineering talent has navigated and solved almost any software development project challenge imaginable, so you can comfortably leave the tech challenges to us.
No do-overs
We deliver unparalleled, results-driven customer service. We’re dedicated to fully addressing your business's unique challenges and goals, perfecting every detail the first time around.
Testimonials
As a top-tier staff augmentation company, we’ve supported clients all over the UK and completed hundreds of successful engineering projects. Check out the stellar reviews from our UK-based clients:
CTO, RealVNC
“Team members provided have integrated seamlessly with our team and worked well. We've been able to add extra resources where it's needed within a week or so, and ramp them down when done. Selecting new team members is easy, with a very high hit rate of staff proposed to those selected to join our team. Any issues have been discussed proactively and resolved well.”
CPTO, DirectID
“We needed to accelerate a series of our projects in different areas. We engaged Vention to provide 4 individuals who could augment 2 of our teams. The first team being our development team (writing for cloud based microservices). The second team being our data science team (providing data insights, models and ML to open banking data)...We achieved the timelines we needed. This process would not have been a success without Vention.”
Head of Engineering, tails.com
“We hired Vention to place engineers into our existing teams in an augmented way, as well as standalone teams to deliver an entire project on their own… They deliver strong code quality, high test coverage, and brilliant architectural design. We did the project management ourselves, working directly with the engineers. All of them were strong communicators, always available and reacted quickly to changes in scope and priorities.”
CTO, Union54
“We were able to put our MVP into production within 3 months of inception and continue to issue new releases on a regular basis. This has allowed us to capture new clients on an ongoing basis. The breadth and depth of talent that they have on tap is impressive, account management is also excellent - if any issues arose, they were swiftly dealt with in a positive manner.”
Our successful UK projects
All cases
FAQs
How flexible are the contract durations for Vention staff augmentation services? Can they be adjusted based on project needs?
Contract durations are flexible and depend on the project's requirements. If a contract is signed for a specific period, but the project needs change, clients can provide a 30-day notice to ramp down the team.
What if the augmented staff doesn’t meet expectations? Is there a process for replacing a team member who doesn't meet the project’s requirements? How quickly can a replacement be made?
If a team member is not meeting expectations, the process begins with detailed feedback and a performance evaluation. The underperforming staff member may be given an opportunity to improve through clear performance goals, additional training, and regular check-ins.
If the improvement plan doesn’t bring the expected results or immediate action is needed, the replacement process is initiated — similar to the initial staffing process.
How do you ensure that your professionals stay ahead of industry trends, and what impact does this have on the projects they are involved in?
We hold meet-ups, workshops, and training sessions for employees. Our engineers have professional development plans and mentors to help them grow professionally.
How do you ensure the work delivered by augmented staff aligns with the client’s standards, quality, and consistency?
Once the team begins working on a project, we study the client's existing practices and standards and, if necessary, suggest improvement opportunities. Our teams are balanced in seniority, ensuring the appropriate level of technical knowledge and adherence to the best development and implementation practices.
Additionally, experienced technical leads and architects can help with complex technical challenges. Our delivery managers constantly sync with the project’s development team and client representatives to receive and share feedback and discuss the current status and plans.
Are there options offered for onsite work, or are team augmentation services limited to remote placements?
Our teams work remotely, but there is room to discuss business trips and onsite visits.
Plus, many of our clients visit our offices in different countries to get to know the team better.
How does Vention's augmented staff contribute to preliminary project development and planning?
During the initial stages of processing customer requests and preparing proposals, we involve experienced technical specialists to ensure the quality of our proposed solutions. We also conduct specialised product discovery workshops where engineers, designers, and business analysts collaborate to set the stage for the most optimal and reliable solutions, fostering growth and development for client businesses.
