In which scenario would hiring external services be considered as a solution for skills gaps?

Hiring external services becomes a viable solution for skills gaps particularly when team members are underqualified for the project tasks. In this scenario, the existing team lacks the necessary skills or experience to effectively complete the project requirements. By bringing in external specialists or consultants, organizations can fill those specific expertise gaps, ensuring that the project can proceed efficiently and meet its objectives. This approach not only enhances the team's capabilities but also reduces the risks associated with relying on team members who may not have the required qualifications for critical tasks.

The other scenarios provided do not align with the reasoning for hiring external services. Situations with no budgetary constraints or when project deadlines are not a concern do not inherently justify bringing in external services, as it can still be more beneficial to upskill current team members or allocate resources more effectively. Additionally, when current team members are overqualified, that suggests they possess more than adequate skills to complete the required tasks, eliminating the need for external help. Therefore, addressing skills gaps aligns specifically with the need for specialized skills not present within the existing team.