[Thews]

There are lots of developer agencies that hire developers as contractors that companies can use to outsource development to in a cheaper way without needing to pay for benefits or HR. They don't necessarily make bad quality software, but it doesn't feel humane.

[sublinear]

Unless we're talking about some sketchy gig work nonsense, the "agency" is a consultancy like any other. They are a legitimate employer with benefits, w2, etc. It's not like they're pimps or something!

Those devs aren't code monkeys and they get paid the same as anyone else working in this industry. In fact, I think a lot of the more ADHD type people on here would strongly prefer working on a new project every 6 months without needing to find a new employer every time. The contracts between the consultancy and client usually also include longer term support than the limited time the original dev spent on it.

[Thews]

Agencies commonly use 1099 workers, there's been fierce legal battles on qualifications of agencies. (ABC test)

I believe 1099 worker growth has been outpacing hiring for several years.