For companies considering offshore development for the first time, the journey is often fraught with various concerns. Particularly, anxiety over communication issues arising from language and cultural differences is a significant challenge. Additionally, worries about whether the development quality will meet domestic standards are common. Many companies also struggle with the difficulties of progress management in a remote environment, compounded by time zone differences.
Finding a reliable development company and ensuring cost transparency are major concerns as well. Questions about legal contracts and the protection of intellectual property can pose significant obstacles in advancing offshore development. Moreover, it is crucial to consider the impact of different cultural backgrounds on the project.
In this context, it is essential to identify steps that will lead to success in offshore development, despite the many uncertainties and questions that accompany it.
The key to successfully navigating offshore development lies in meticulous planning from the preparation stage and effective communication.
By clearly defining the project’s purpose and requirements, and sharing a vision that all stakeholders can align with, discrepancies in expectations can be prevented, allowing for smoother progress.
In this article, AIoT, which operates an offshore development business in Vietnam, will introduce the specific steps to successfully advance offshore development, incorporating practical insights, starting with Step 1.
Step 1: Internal Coordination and Establishing Project Structure
The most important factor when starting offshore development is internal coordination. For the project to succeed, it is necessary to establish a company-wide framework that includes not only the IT department but also management and related departments. The efforts made at this stage can significantly influence the later progress of the project.
How to Advance Internal Coordination
1. Involve Management
It is essential to secure the understanding and support of management for the project’s success. Their recognition of the project’s importance facilitates smooth budget approval and resource allocation. Regular progress reports and incorporating management feedback can enhance their engagement.
2. Explain Project Goals and Expected Benefits
It is crucial to clarify the purpose of offshore development and communicate the anticipated benefits within the company. Demonstrating specific advantages, such as cost reduction and improved development speed, makes it easier to gain company-wide support.
3. Secure Budget
Sufficient budget allocation is necessary for the smooth progress of the project. Presenting the project’s ROI (Return on Investment) to management and explaining the budget’s validity is key. Once the budget is approved, the project can proceed confidently.
4. Share Risks and Countermeasures
Offshore development comes with risks. Identifying these risks in advance and sharing countermeasures increases project transparency and builds trust among stakeholders.
5. Strengthen Collaboration with Related Departments
It is vital to enhance collaboration with all departments involved in the project. Identifying departments involved in requirements definition and clarifying their roles and responsibilities enables efficient work.
6. Adjust Schedules
Adjusting schedules to ensure smooth collaboration among departments is essential. Particularly, aligning timelines with the offshore development team is crucial for the project’s progress.
7. Establish Communication Structure
It is necessary to design a meeting structure that considers time zone differences. Scheduling regular meetings with the offshore team and creating an environment for real-time information sharing is important.
8. Select Communication Tools
Appropriate communication tools are essential for efficient information sharing. Choosing chat and project management tools and ensuring that they are user-friendly for everyone is important.
9. Develop Information Sharing Rules
Establishing rules for sharing project-related information facilitates smooth information flow among stakeholders, helping to prevent misunderstandings and information loss.
Summary
A significant gap between the department handling offshore development and the field can hinder project progress. Particularly, the understanding and support of management are crucial for budget approval and interdepartmental coordination. By addressing these points and advancing internal coordination, a solid foundation for offshore development can be established. Take the first step towards success!
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AIoT aims to be a trustworthy partner in supporting your business success, solving challenges in offshore development, and building long-term relationships. If you have concerns about offshore development or are considering a new project, please consult us. With rich experience, high technical capabilities, and thorough quality management and security measures, we are committed to leading your business to success.
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