From Offshore Outsourcing World
Both sorts of oursourcing have their unique advantages. The big "plus" of hiring onshore labor is proximity. You're able to keep a close watch on the project's development, become more aware of anomalies, and deal with less cultural and language barriers than you would have to if your operations were located overseas.
Also, first world nations are fortified with strong intellectual property (IP) protection laws. In case of a breach of employee ethics, knowing the number of a good lawyer will actually help!
But the long and short of it is, offshore locations are known to be more cost-effective. It's a matter of fact that consultants based in certain countries overseas, whether they are large corporations or individual freelancers, charge much less!
If you're thinking of offshoring, and are still thinking about which country to outsource to, you've got a lot of your research work cut out for you. The AT Kearney Offshore Location Attractiveness Index of 2004 has provided a rundown of the most feasible nations offering specialized outsourcing services.
This document is considered one of the most comprehensive guides to selecting good locations for offshored projects.
You've probably heard or been told about the excellent services you can get from India or China. These countries are truly excellent offshore locations...
But you must first be aware of the fact that choosing the best location for your project depends on what KIND of project it is.
It doesn't follow that just because China or India boast of the lowest labor rates, you should outsource your projects there! Other countries may be able to give you a better deal on certain kinds of projects, than India or China would.
For example, India is a top choice for software development and Information Technology (IT)-related services. Call centers are also enjoying some growth in the region, as the high English proficiency of the young population, particularly the fresh graduates, are proving to be increasingly attractive.
However, if your project requires excellence in language skills, like call center management or data warehousing, offshoring to an English-speaking country, such as Malaysia or the Philippines, might be more profitable.
Programmers in China are currently enjoying top billing for skilled labor for very low rates -- however, programmers in Russia can boast of competitive skills AND rates, with the additional assurance afforded by high academic credentials, such as masters degrees or PhDs in their chosen fields of technical expertise.
If you don't mind the cost, you can also consider offshoring programming projects to Singapore, a country that places great importance on quality, and is currently focusing on creating a world class IT labor force. Singapore has the added advantage of security, as its supportive government puts priority on passing iron-clad IP protection laws.
If you reside in Europe, you may also want to consider outsourcing to the Czech Republic and other Western European nations -- mainly for the proximity, and for the strategic, central geographic location.
The Czech Republic has been recently inducted into the European Union (EU), paving the way for more foreign investment, as well as better trade and communication channels. Telemarketing and customer support outfits are also enjoying some prestige in these regions at the moment.
The trends of success in offshored projects have already been highlighted for the future generations of offshoring employers, by the pioneers in the trade. It's time to follow their lead and make your own mark!
Next: Where Do You Start Looking for Good Workers?
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