Fractional Consultants & eCommerce Contractors - are they different?

At Cranberry Panda, we have recently introduced 'Fractional Talent' to provide a whole new level of eCommerce recruitment. While the term 'fractional consultant' has grown, are they different from an eCommerce contractor?

Generally speaking, a fractional consultant and a contractor are professionals who provide services to businesses on a temporary or project basis. However, there are key differences that mean it is entirely dependent on the business needs as to whom they need to come on board.

The key differences between eCommerce contractors and fractional consultants

In our latest blog, we wanted to outline these differences so that your hiring needs are met. It's important to note that both of these approaches are completely valid and can be so valuable to a business. So, this blog is not about which is better - it's about identifying who works best for the business requirements. Our team can help you with both contract talent and fractional consultants - let's find out who you need to hire!

The role requirements

The scope of the work each professional will cover is quite different. Fractional consultants are generally engaged to provide strategic, high-level advice and assistance. They may be involved in areas like executive leadership, management, marketing, finance, or other niche specialisms. Their role often extends beyond completing tasks and will likely include long-term planning and decision-making.

Meanwhile, an eCommerce contractor is hired for specific tasks or projects. They may work on areas such as digital design, graphic design, analytics, or any eCommerce project with a defined timeline. Contractors will be expected to work on the set project within the set time frame. Of course, it is not unheard of for contractors to be kept on following a successful project.

How much time do these professionals commit to your business?

It's important to understand how much time a fractional consultant can commit to your business when compared to an eCommerce contractor. Contractors can work on a full-time or part-time basis, depending on the project's requirements. Their commitment to a specific project may last one month or could be a maternity cover. Within eCommerce, a contractor will often be working with the team 5 days a week, so they will be more involved in the day-to-day.

A fractional consultant offers more flexibility. Be it remotely or on-site, a fractional consultant can jump right into a fast-paced environment. This means that unlike a contractor, who will work on a project-by-project basis, a fractional consultant will dedicate a certain amount of time to the business. They may work for multiple clients simultaneously, providing strategic input and expertise during a dedicated time in their working week. 

Long-term relationships

As mentioned, it is common for contractors to extend their time with a business. In some cases, they end up joining full-time. However, it is usually a set amount of time before they venture off to their next project. If there is no room for extension, a contractor's engagement with the business once they have completed their work.

Fractional consultants offer the chance to build long-term professional relationships. With a fractional consultant, the ongoing relationship could extend to many years. Some periods might require less input, though they will be on hand to offer strategic guidance and help solve any problems that arise. 

Bringing fractional consulting to the eCommerce industry

The eCommerce industry is ever growing and we are in touch with fractional consultants who have worked in this amazing industry from the very beginning! Want to find out more? Simply click below to find out more about our 'Fractional Talent' services.