Let’s face it, finding an experienced Delphi developer today isn’t a walk in the park.
If you’ve been on the hunt for one, you already know the struggle is real.
Many companies that rely on Delphi developers know how tricky it can get.
Especially when an expert isn’t available, or you need extra hands for a new project.
Why is it so tough?
Well, Delphi isn’t the most popular kid on the block anymore.
Plus, Microsoft Windows usage is steadily shrinking, and that’s affecting the talent pool.
Delphi Developers: Scarcity and Historical Context
Back in 1995, Borland launched Delphi as an Integrated Development Environment (IDE) for Windows.
It let developers build apps using object-oriented programming in Turbo Pascal.
During Microsoft’s glory days with Windows, Delphi was a hit.
But as Linux and Mac gained ground, web programming languages like HTML, PHP, and JavaScript took the spotlight.
Fast forward to today, and Delphi developers are harder to find.
But there’s still demand, especially for projects that have been running for a decade or longer.
And Delphi remains a solid option for creating apps for Windows, Mac, mobile devices, and even the Internet of Things.
So, despite its niche status, many companies still seek Delphi experts for complex tasks.
The tools are modern, and the documentation is top-notch.
But here’s the catch: hiring these pros can get pricey.
Demand for Delphi Developers
According to the IEEE’s 2018 ranking, Delphi now sits at 31st place among the world’s most popular programming languages.
Topping the list?
Python, C++, and Java.
These powerhouses can build code for nearly any hardware out there.
Still, Delphi continues to shine in legacy software projects.
These are the systems that have been evolving for 10 to 15 years or more.
If you don’t need to rebuild your software from scratch, Delphi could be your best bet.
Plus, new projects using Delphi still pop up.
The tools are cutting-edge, and the language remains strong for Windows apps.
But keep in mind: alternatives to Delphi (many of them free) are on the rise.
What Experienced Delphi Programmers Earn
Hiring a Delphi developer?
Get ready to dig deep into your wallet, especially if experience is what you’re after.
Delphi is easier to learn than other languages, so the market is flooded with average developers.
And no one wants to pay top dollar for average.
According to gehalt.de, Delphi developers in Germany make between €42,000 and €60,000 per year. This includes downtime for holidays, sick days, and vacation.
If that seems steep, you might want to consider hiring a freelancer or looking abroad.
The Freelancer Option
Freelance Delphi developers charge a hefty rate as well.
The average, according to gulp.de, is €76 per hour.
That works out to €608 per day for an 8-hour workday.
If you go down the freelance route, make sure you’re hiring someone who knows their stuff.
You don’t want to pay premium prices for subpar work.
Delphi Developers from Abroad: A Viable Solution
Here’s where things get interesting – hiring Delphi developers from abroad.
Thanks to the internet, this is easier than ever. Many companies are turning to India – the world’s largest tech outsourcing hub.
Indian developers are renowned for their expertise, and German companies have been tapping into this talent pool for years.
The benefits? Lower costs, a vast talent pool, and increased productivity.
India boasts around three million IT professionals.
That means finding a Delphi expert for your project is far easier than searching locally.
You’ll only pay for the work done, and communication tools like Skype make remote work a breeze.
Just make sure you’re hiring someone with solid experience.
Ideally, they should be employed by a reputable Indian outsourcing company.
Finding and Hiring Delphi Developers
In Germany, you’ll find companies that specialize in connecting businesses with top-notch Indian developers.
One such company is Outsourcing4work GmbH, based in Darmstadt.
With vast tech experience, they started using Indian developers for their own projects.
But demand from other German-speaking companies grew rapidly.
With the shortage of skilled workers in Germany, many businesses began turning to India for high-quality developers.
Imagine having Delphi developers with at least three years of professional experience working exclusively for your company.
And you get the bonus of contracts with a German company and a German-speaking account manager.
So, you stay safe and in control throughout the process.
Ready to Find Your Delphi Developer?
Whether you choose to hire locally, go freelance, or explore Indian talent, the key is finding the right match for your needs.
Outsourcing your Delphi development to IndianDevaaS could save you time, money, and headaches.
Plus, you’ll get the experience you need, without the steep costs.
The search doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive.
You just need to know where to look.
And with the right partner, the results can be game-changing.
P.S. If your current team is swamped with projects, maybe it’s time to consider some outside help. Just make sure your cat doesn’t get to interview the new hire!