When a business doesn't have the capacity or resources to manage and maintain staff for independent or individual projects or campaigns, freelancing and outsourcing are attractive business alternatives for completing the tasks. Freelancing websites and companies offer services that allow businesses to hire on a per-project basis, allowing the company to handle specialized projects and tasks without spending unnecessary resources on hiring and other human resources related issues.

There are many websites online that offer unique freelance services to businesses of all sizes. Whether you need someone to complete a specific job, perform routine maintenance, or fulfill continued short-term or long-term business needs, freelance artists, programmers, and other trained specialists can complete the work on a contract basis, without requiring much in the way of additional business resources.

Freelancers can usually be acquired through professional outsourcing and freelance websites where contractors put businesses in touch with appropriate freelance professionals. Tenders, quotes, and contract offers can be bid on by individuals who meet the specific qualifications for the tasks or work required.

Freelancers themselves are free to perform work without any long-term commitments to contract employers, giving them the freedom to accept or refuse freelance work based on their own needs. The practice of freelancing allows professionals an additional source of income without having to commit to any one particular company or business. (The term "free lance" refers to medieval warriors, mercenaries who were hired out for protection).