There is a financial incentive, if the client company is certain that the work they want done is outside, for instance if they are willing to completely cede co

There is a financial incentive, if the client company is certain that the work they want done is outside, for instance if they are willing to completely cede control, and pay a lump sum for well defined work. Closer to real freelancing/consultancy than a lot of current 'contracting' positions. But yes I agree, that is what's happened. Umbrellas must be rubbing their hands with glee.