Outsourcing services for a software development project for an offshore location such as India or Costa Rica can be a very beneficial method for companies that aspire to get the most out of their investment. Although outsourcing IT services to offshore locations has proven to have many benefits, there can also be challenges for software developers working with members in different countries. Product managers and scrum teachers should keep all team members (on-site and abroad) engaged throughout the project to produce the best possible product.
When the agile development approach is used for custom software development, it is imperative to have all team members on the same page functioning as a cohesive unit. The communication flow must be constant and concise so that the iterations are completed effectively and quickly.
In the 21st-century business world, working under the same roof with coworkers is not always possible, necessary or even desirable. Sometimes you may need technical talent that is not available in your local area. Or you can search for Czech republic outsourcing if you want to scale quickly for a new project. Regardless of your situation, working with offshore workers is increasingly common, and many companies are discovering that they enjoy the many benefits that offshore software development offers.
In order to maximize benefits and minimize feasible risks, follow four helpful tips when working with team members in offshore locations.
4 tips for working with team members in offshore locations
Dealing with adversity and overcoming obstacles is part of the most complicated projects. Adding physical distance between team members and product managers can be an additional challenge for the completion and success of a project. Fortunately, there are ways to address this potential challenge and minimize any threat. Here are four tips to help you work effectively with offshore team members:
- Use video conferencing: during daily meetings, video conferencing allows members of the product development team to participate in a face-to-face communication about the project. When details can be lost or misunderstood through email or chat, face-to-face communication allows such details to be discussed in greater detail in team members.
- Developing relationships with members of the offshore team: working together is one thing, but having a solid working relationship outside the walls of the project can also be conducive to creating a stronger unit. Understanding how people work and function in offshore locations can be a valuable asset when the project encounters an impediment.
- Do not forget the value of the documentation: when face-to-face communication can be hindered during the project due to circumstantial variables, documentation is vital. Team members need to know what has been done and what has not been done during the iterations. Keep detailed documentation to ensure that each team member is aware of the progress of product accumulation.
- Create a positive atmosphere: when the team completes an important achievement during the project, it is important to include members from abroad in the celebration. Complementing a member of the offshore team, both public and private, when they do a great job is an effective way to build a strong relationship. Building a strong relationship and creating a team atmosphere can produce a general sense of cohesion between the group. A stronger unit produces stronger products.
If done correctly, collaboration between offshore software developers and team members on the ground during a software development project produces many more benefits than challenges. Whether on land, on the high seas or in a combination of the two, it is imperative for any product development team to operate in such a way that it produces the best possible product. Overcoming distance is not as difficult as it seems. By leveraging technological innovation and the foundations of good teamwork, there are many ways to avoid potential barriers to software development on the high seas.