oDesk
is an online marketplace that unites Providers (freelancers or
contractors) with Buyers, people looking for skilled workers to fill
specific tasks or needs. The needs of Buyers and the range of skills
featured by the freelancers is very diverse, so there is probably
something for just about anyone looking to outsource a job or make a
little extra cash.
It
is provides a venue for Buyers to list jobs and Providers to list
skills and services. oDesk receives 10% of the transaction in return for
hosting the venue and providing a rating system for the freelancers and
series of checks and balances to safeguard both the Buyer and the
Provider. More on this in a moment.
What kind of services do oDesk users provide?
Just
about anything you want or need – technical skills, web or logo design,
programming in various languages, article writing, and more. Here is a
small sampling of the skills you can find on oDesk:
- Web Development: Computer programming (26 programming languages/formats listed), custom coding, eCommerce, project management, user interface design, etc.
- Design and Multimedia: Logos, graphic design, audio visual production, 3D modeling and CAD, and more.
- Writing and Translation: Technical writing, Article writing, Website content, Copywriting, translation, and more
- Software development: Desktop applications, gaming, software plugins (including custom WordPress plugins), mobile apps (iPhone, BlackBerry, Google Android, etc.), VoIP, etc.
- Customer Service: Phone support, customer service, tech support, etc.
- Sales and Marketing: Press releases, advertising, SEO, SEM, Public relations, online surveys, and more
- Network & Information Systems: Database development and management, network support and more
- Business Services: Accounting, bookkeeping, payroll, financial planning, etc.
- Virtual Assistants
