In the realm of technology, offshore outsourcing has been a common practice, especially in locations with a lower cost per parity. It has become easier than ever to connect with talents from around the world. Many businesses opt for outsourcing because it has proven to be more efficient, allowing them to save resources for other purposes. However, there can be some pitfalls to consider while outsourcing. One of the most significant challenges is building trust between you and your outsourcing partner. It can be particularly challenging to establish trust when parties are from different geographical locations. The differences in cultures and time zones are considerable factors to consider that are beyond our control when proceeding with a project. However, there are some project outsourcing best practices to ensure you safeguard your interests, and we have listed some of them below:
1. Define your goals and objectives
Make sure to clearly communicate your goals and objectives to your outsourcing partner. One big mistake businesses often make is not having a precise understanding of their goals. For the best outcomes, businesses should be familiar with their preferences, selecting tools and software that match the project’s scope and scalability. Having a clear vision of your outsourcing needs, budget, and ideally, the specific technology, will greatly benefit both you and your outsourcing partner.
2. Communication
When outsourcing projects offshore, effective communication is crucial. Establish clear communication channels and expectations for regular updates and meetings. Consider language barriers and time zone differences when choosing an offshore partner, as they can impact communication. Utilize business communication tools for consistent monitoring, ensuring developers grasp project requirements, deadlines, and deliverables. Sharing decisions through email is often overlooked but can be beneficial.
3. Metrics
Keep a close eye on essential project metrics, such as cost per feature, velocity, and burndown rates, to gain valuable insights into project progress, resource utilization, and overall performance. Monitor additional metrics like defect density, customer satisfaction, and team velocity for a comprehensive view of project health and success. Regularly analyze these metrics to spot potential issues early on, enabling timely adjustments and improvements.
4. Quality Assurance
When it comes to quality, set clear standards and implement robust quality assurance procedures for the project. Don’t settle for anything less than the best, even in outsourcing. Clearly define requirements, communication protocols, and quality standards to uphold your expectations. Regularly review progress, leverage project management tools, and conduct thorough quality testing. Choose a trustworthy partner and include quality assurance measures in the contract.5. Have clear project plan
In planning your project, identify requirements, dates, and deliverables, and allocate resources accordingly when outsourcing. Clearly define roles, duties, communication procedures, and quality standards. Assess the capabilities and experience of the outsourced team, ensuring adequate resource allocation. Discuss your budget and cost plans openly with your partner, emphasizing transparency. Develop a project management strategy, utilizing tools to monitor progress and performance. Consider setting up escrow accounts for your projects to plan payments upon project completion. Establish explicit project management protocols, ensuring the team remains well-organized and on schedule.6. Ensure legally safety
Most importantly, to ensure legal safety when outsourcing, prioritize the inclusion of confidentiality agreements and measures for intellectual property protection in your outsourcing contract. Confirm that your outsourcing partner adheres to legal regulations and data protection laws relevant to your business. Establish a comprehensive contract with a trustworthy outsourcing partner, clearly outlining legal expectations and responsibilities. Integrate provisions for confidentiality, intellectual property protection, and data privacy. Regularly communicate and monitor performance to ensure compliance with contract and legal obligations. Seek legal counsel if necessary.7. Manage Risks
When it comes to project outsourcing, it’s essential to thoroughly assess potential risks and proactively develop strategies to mitigate them. By doing so, you’ll not only stay on track but also be well-prepared to tackle any challenges that may arise throughout the project lifecycle. This proactive approach ensures a more resilient and successful outsourcing experience.