When deciding to develop a new app, there are many choices to be made. A large decision is deciding where your app will be developed. This article will go over some of the nuances of onshore vs. offshore development. By the end of this segment, you should have a better understanding of which direction would be best suited for you and your company.
Offshore: Offshore development is hiring out your development needs to an individual or a company that does not reside in your same country.
Onshore: Onshore development is hiring out your development needs to an individual or a company that resides within the same country your business is located.
In Person Connection
Meeting in person can cultivate relationships between two companies or individuals that are harder to cultivate online. The ability to meet face to face can help clearly communicate the needs of your business.
Clear Communication
Being able to clearly communicate can make the difference between project successes and failure.
Cost
Something to be aware of when dealing with onshore companies, is a term called “backdoor offshoring”. This is essentially when you hire a team in your country, and they hire out the work to an offshore freelancer or company. You can ask to meet with your developer in person and know exactly who is going to be assigned to your project and be in tune with the entirety of the project.
Cost
Typically, offshore companies offer their services at a lower cost than those within the United States. Offshore companies have more employees that are ready and willing to work which in turn creates a faster turnaround time on projects. Many companies in the US are very popular and busy which may cause a delay in project startup. Many offshore companies have workers that are ready to work as soon as the next project comes up. Because of these factors, turnaround times can be much faster offshore than onshore. Although, this can vary between projects and their specific needs.
Availability
The world is vast and so is the talent pool outside of where you live. Offshoring means that you have access to many brilliant and talented individuals worldwide. Offshoring can be a great way to access developers with a wide range of skills.
Time Zones
One issue with offshore development is the difference in time zones. Very practically speaking, it can make it very difficult to find time to connect when questions arise, or you just simply need to get in touch with your developer. On the other hand, different time zones can be positive for founders that have a day job and are working on their software idea at night. An offset schedule can be a project advantage.
Communication
When working with individuals in other countries, it is safe to assume that English will not be their first language. Even if spoken with proficiency, there can still be unique challenges that present themselves.
No matter if you choose onshore or offshore development, it is wise that you know where your code is being stored and be sure to have access to it. If you choose the offshore route, looking up the law pertaining to code ownership and possession in that country is beneficial.
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