How it works
Normal squad cost
Loaded monthly cost for the selected team shape at standard market rates, based on Stack Overflow Developer Survey and Glassdoor salary data, adjusted for offshore delivery geography.
AI-native squad cost
A smaller team with AI tooling handling code review, visual regression, release notes, and security audits. Headcount reduction: 20-35% depending on team size tier. Rates unchanged; the saving comes from fewer people doing the same or more work.
Throughput
Features shipped per quarter. AI-native squads ship 40-60% more features at the same or lower cost, based on Wednesday benchmarks from 50+ engagements and DORA 2024 elite-performer data.
Questions
What formula does this use?
Normal squad burn equals headcount times loaded monthly rate, adjusted by platform and team-size tier. AI-native burn applies a headcount reduction of 20-35% to the normal burn. Throughput uses Wednesday benchmark tiers, not theoretical projections.
How accurate is this?
The cost figures reflect Wednesday squad rates and real engagement data. If you are comparing against a different vendor, use the throughput figures as the comparison point — those are based on DORA data and Wednesday benchmarks, not vendor-specific pricing.
What does "AI-native" actually mean?
An AI-native squad is not engineers who use AI coding tools. It is a smaller team where AI does the code review, visual regression, release notes, and security audits. The engineers focus on architecture, product decisions, and work that requires judgment. That is where the throughput gain comes from.
Can I share or save my results?
Yes. Use the "Share link" button to get a URL with your inputs encoded. The PDF export includes both columns side by side for internal sharing.
When should I not rely on this calculator?
If you are building highly regulated software (medical device, financial infrastructure) where AI-generated code requires additional review, the headcount reduction will be smaller. Book a call for a regulated-industry estimate.
Who should I talk to if my situation is more complex?
Book 30 minutes with one of our engineers. You will leave with a squad shape, a monthly cost, and a throughput estimate for your specific situation.
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