The Evolution of Software Development Models: Beyond Onshore, Offshore, and Hybrid

Are you exploring a change in your software development efforts? 

Traditionally, there are three fundamental software development models: onshore, offshore, and hybrid. We will discuss their unique characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages. Then, we will introduce a groundbreaking fourth model that transcends geographical constraints.

Onshore Software Development involves employing local development teams or freelancers within the same geographic region. Historically, the advantages and disadvantages commonly associated with onshore development include:

Offshore Software Development involves outsourcing software development tasks to teams or firms located in different countries, often in regions with lower labor costs. Again, historically, the advantages and disadvantages typically associated with offshore development include:

Hybrid Software Development, as the name suggests, combines elements of both onshore and offshore models, striving for a balanced approach that leverages the advantages while mitigating the disadvantages. “Some of this and some of that” aptly describes this model, with resultant advantages and disadvantages:

This brings us to the innovative fourth model, let’s call it MyShore, which transcends the boundaries of traditional paradigms. The premises are that skills, effectiveness, communication, and availability don’t have to be restricted by geography. With the right hiring and training strategies coupled with expert use of tools and structured methodology, some companies are proving it’s possible to have your cake and eat it, too….err, to get all the advantages!

Advantages of MyShore Model:

1. Cost Optimization: These innovative companies have mastered the art of cost optimization without compromising quality. Their approach involves meticulous resource management and strategic resource allocation to achieve the best cost-to-benefit ratio.

2. Skill Synergy: The fourth model focuses on skill synergy, bringing together a diverse pool of talents irrespective of their geographical locations. The emphasis is on creating teams with the right expertise for each project's unique requirements.

3. Efficient Communication: Strong English communication skills along with robust project management strategies are at the heart of this approach, ensuring seamless communication regardless of geographical boundaries. Modern communication tools, frequent updates, and transparent progress tracking are key components.

4. Enhanced Availability: These companies “work when you work”. Through skillful coordination of team schedules and strategic utilization of global time zones, this model offers not only local time zone coverage but also extended availability, reducing delays in issue resolution and ensuring timely project updates.

5. Quality Assurance: Rigorous quality control measures are in place throughout all project phases. Continuous testing, code reviews, and adherence to industry best practices are key aspects of this model to maintain consistently high standards.

6. Scalability: The MyShore model is designed for scalability, allowing organizations to adapt to evolving project requirements with ease. This adaptability includes the flexibility to expand or reduce resources as needed.

7. Client-Centric Focus: Above all, MyShore places a strong emphasis on client satisfaction. Client feedback loops, open channels of communication, and a dedication to meeting or exceeding client expectations are integral components of the approach.

8. Moderate Cost: Though not the best option for those solely focused on budget, the innovative MyShore approach is cost-effective compared to the Onshore model, and the emphasis on quality and client satisfaction justifies this investment for many organizations.

This innovative software development model, dubbed MyShore, transcends the traditional onshore vs. offshore dichotomy, offering a range of advantages. It stands as a testament to the adaptability and innovation within the software development industry, providing decision makers with a holistic and effective solution for their projects, regardless of team member location.

One example of a company who has been demonstrating the value of the MyShore model for several years is my own firm, CUBE84. We are a Salesforce consultancy and among our many offerings is Salesforce development. Our client base is primarily North America while the majority of our developers reside in India. The project teams meet during our clients’ normal business hours, so availability is definite, and the other advantages are achieved through stringent hiring criteria, effective resourcing, continuous education investments, and structured delivery processes.

MyShore is admittedly a newly coined term, intended to differentiate this relatively new model from the more familiar others. Until the use of the term catches on, here are some questions you can ask to assess a prospective firm.

• What geographic location will team members be working from?
• What time zone will team members be available during?
• Are the services of solution architects, project managers, business analysts and senior developers included in the pricing structure? 
• What investments do you make to ensure 
• Can I speak with my primary point of contact?
• What responsiveness and turnaround can I expect?
• Can you show examples of the tools you use, processes you follow, and deliverables?

The selection of the right development model, based on your specific needs, is critical to achieving your goals. Hopefully you’ve found this summary helpful for your evaluation, and if MyShore is of interest for your Salesforce development needs, I encourage you to reach out for a free consultation to learn more.