How to explain to a layperson the variance in programmer rates?

Posted by Matt McCormick on Programmers See other posts from Programmers or by Matt McCormick
Published on 2011-12-11T00:22:35Z Indexed on 2012/03/23 5:38 UTC
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freelancing

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contract

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non-programmers

I recently talked to a guy that is looking for developers to build a product idea. He mentioned he has received interest from people but the rates have varied from $20-120/hr. This project he estimates should take 3-6 months and since he is non-technical, he is confused why there can be so much variance.

I understand how I would choose someone but I am a developer and can gauge other people's work.

How can I explain to him (in a non-biased way, if possible, as I will apply as well) about the variance in rates? Is there any good analogy that would help?

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