If you're hesitant about choosing offshore application development, it may be because you don't know where to start. There are so many different firms around the globe fighting for your business, it's hard to narrow down the different choices in an offshore software directory to one that fits your business model and budget. The key is first deciding exactly what you want to create, and then finding a firm that can meet your needs while keeping the lines of communication open.

Trying to decide which country to outsource your development to can be a difficult one because many countries can do the same caliber of work for a similar price. You may find yourself with choices such as:

1. India's software development services

2. Offshore software development in China

3. Offshore Web development from firms in other places, such as Europe

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find an offshore software development firm that you can pay by the hour

Depending on the scope of the project, many small businesses choose to give their offshore product development to a company that they can pay by the hour. This is often cheaper than paying by the project, and it gives you a little more control over the development process. This method is so popular that many companies specialize in helping you find just the right outsourcing firm and connecting the two of you for a project.

I recommend: Look at some popular outsourcing sites to find the right business to work with. Companies like Elance and ODesk do nothing but connect buyers with service providers. And since they're based in the United States, you have certain rights and guarantees that you may not have when working with an outsourcing company directly.

Look for an offshore software company that specializes in the type of website that you need

If you want to have a certain type of website created by an outsourcing firm, it only makes sense to find someone that specializes in that type of site. Most companies provide you with a list of technology that they're fluent in, as well as a portfolio of past and current projects. This will help you match up your needs with that of the provider for a better fit.

I recommend: Browse through the different portfolios to find a close fit. Macronimous has an extensive client base with over 1700 websites created, so you can certainly find something that fits in with your niche. Development India has worked with clients like The History Channel and National Geographic, so you know that their work is of the utmost sophistication.

Bridge the communication barrier between your firm and the offshore software development company

There's nothing worse than having to have a conference call at 3 a.m. because your Web developers are on the other side of the globe. You need to find a company that can work your hours if necessary and that has people on staff who can speak the same language you do.

I recommend: Venice Consulting has services that allow you to speak to someone in the same time zone as you, which can prove to be a huge selling point when it comes to picking a vendor. India NIC works around the clock, so that you have support no matter what time zone you live in.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  In addition to traditional programming services, many outsourcing companies offer consulting and business development to help you create a solution that not only works with your business, but can help it reach new heights.