The Merger of Elance and oDesk: What You Need to Know

In 2015, the two major freelance marketplaces, Elance and oDesk, merged into a new entity, Upwork, marking a significant shift in the freelance industry. Despite the merger, it's important to understand the immediate changes and the long-term implications for users and businesses alike. This article will provide a detailed overview of the merger process, address user concerns, and discuss the current state of the platforms.

Introduction to the Merger

On September 16, 2015, the companies Elance and oDesk announced their merger to create a single, unified platform for freelance work. This new entity was named Upwork and was officially launched in February 2016. The merger aimed to create a more robust ecosystem for freelancers and businesses to connect and work together, benefiting both parties in terms of scale, innovation, and network.

Immediate Changes After the Merger

Post-merger, the most immediate effects on users were minimal. Both Elance and oDesk continued to operate under their own names for an extended period, and, initially, user profiles on these platforms were not merged. This dual operation allowed for a seamless transition and ease of use for both freelancers and clients.

However, it's important to note that despite the separate operating names, the two platforms were becoming increasingly integrated. Certain functionalities were being standardized, and both sites started to adopt shared features. For example, ODesk users began to use the same Connect quota system that Elance users were familiar with. This integration was designed to enhance user experience and smooth the transition to the new platform.

What Happened to Elance and oDesk?

While the merger brought about a unified front under the Upwork brand, the individual Elance and oDesk sites were eventually phased out. As of April 2016, Elance and oDesk were officially suspended, and all user activity was redirected to the new Upwork platform.

During the transition, users were given ample time to move their profiles and projects data to the new platform. The companies provided guidance and support to help users make the switch with minimal disruption. This move indicated a clear strategic direction towards consolidation and the eventual closure of the old platforms.

User Profiles and System Integration

The most significant change for users after the merger was the integration of their profiles. When both Elance and oDesk were suspended, their user profiles were merged into the Upwork platform. This process involved transferring all user information, credentials, and project history to ensure a smooth continuation of work.

It's important for users to understand the benefits of this profile merging. By consolidating their information, users can maintain a complete and consistent online presence across all platforms. Additionally, the integration of profiles often meant that job history, ratings, and other critical details were preserved, which helped in maintaining credibility and professional standing.

While the merger and transition process were designed to minimize disruption, it's essential for users to periodically check their profiles on the new Upwork platform to ensure all information is correctly transferred. Any errors or omissions can potentially affect their ability to secure new freelance projects.

Connect Quota System

One of the key features that many eLance users were concerned about was the adoption of the Connect quota system. This system limited the number of resumes that users could send to potential clients. For ODesk users, the Connect quota was introduced to mimic the system already in place at eLance.

The adoption of the Connect quota system was a strategic move to balance the interests of both freelancers and clients. It helped ensure that users did not abuse the system by sending excessive numbers of unsolicited resumes. However, this change was initially met with some resistance from ODesk users who were accustomed to the greater flexibility of their previous system.

To address these concerns, Upwork offered various support resources and guidance. Users could learn more about the Connect quota system and how to use it effectively through help articles, support forums, and customer service. Over time, the system was accepting to users, contributing to a more efficient and user-friendly platform.

Conclusion

The merger of Elance and oDesk into Upwork represented a significant milestone in the freelance industry. It provided a unified platform that offered enhanced functionality and ease of use, while also addressing the concerns of both freelancers and businesses. While the transition period may have been challenging, it ultimately led to a more robust ecosystem for freelance work.

Currently, Upwork is the sole platform where all user activities take place, and users are encouraged to explore the full range of features and offerings available on the new site. As the platform continues to evolve, it remains committed to providing a comprehensive solution for freelancers and businesses to connect and collaborate successfully.