> Another point of value is that contract or employee is longer

For a contract not inherently, and it's not as though all contracts are 40 hr/week. Depending on what you need, 20 hours a week could suffice. 20 hours a week at 100 an hour gets you just a bit over your mid tier plan, but gets you a lot more flexibility. And you don't have to sacrifice tests or QA.

> requires sourcing and interviews

I wouldn't let an agency or "subscription based front end development service" develop software for my company without interviews and "commitment". And again, definitely not for these prices.

Happy to provide the feedback and best of luck on your business!