OFFSHORE DEVELOPMENT CENTRES

Xyronet has Offshore Development Centres or ODCs that are 100% dedicated software development environments. These are referred to as ODCs because they are located outside the client's premises, solely engaged in developing, testing and deploying software solutions and applications, most often in a country outside the client's country. The rationale behind an ODC is to take advantages of the technological skills set and know-how, cost advantages coupled with the reduced time to market.

As a simple example, consider a start up company wishing to develop a simple but dynamic Job Recruitment web site. If the client wishes after discussing with us that they wish to use our offshore software development capabilities, then we will adopt a pick and mix matrix approach to allocate the appropriate technical staff that can meet the specific requirements for our client and in turn reduce overall costs by at least 20% beating the market price. The project may still be managed locally, but certain aspects may be sent offshore without compromising quality but most definitely reducing costs. In this scenario, we may select three technical members of staff from our offshore capabilities, whereas in another small project situation we may use just the one.

For bigger projects undertaken by large businesses and empires with diversified interests and varied business processes, we follow a phased process as described below.

Models of Offshore Software Development

We can assist a Client in setting up an Offshore Development Centre, where in the ODC, to start with, will run under the Xyronet banner. We would assist in the operations of the ODC, providing the resources for development work, managing the ODC etc. This frees the client from worry of the day-to-day operations of the ODC.

In case the Client wants to take over the operations and buy out the ODC at a later stage, we suggest the following options.

Dedicated

Build Operate Transfer (BOT Model)

Dedicated ODC

A dedicated Offshore Development Centre will be set up for the Client. The dedicated ODC size will be based on the requirements of the Client.
ODC Buy Option (Build - Operate - Transfer)

ODC Buy Option (Build - Operate - Transfer)

In the Build Operate and Transfer Model of ODC,

The ODC will be built based on the requirements of the Client and will be run on a pre-defined terms and conditions Xyronet will manage the ODC for the client for a particular period of time.
After a predefined set period of time based on a predefined terms and conditions the ODC will be transferred to the Client control.
In case the Client would like to buy the ODC, the purchase value of the ODC would be calculated based on the duration that the ODC has been used before being transferred from the ODC to the Client.
All facilities / infrastructure used by the ODC could also be acquired by the Client on payment of the written down value of the facility / infrastructure.

This model helps clients build up its own facility in Pakistan without having to be exposed to entry-level hassles.

So how do I Establish an ODC?

After discussing with one of our representatives from our head office in London, we would agree to the setting up of an ODC in different phases.

Phase 1 – Requirement/Situational Analysis

The initial phase is based on a situation analysis to develop an understanding of your stated needs. We will discuss your project requirements and give our input on the components that we consider viable for offshore software development. A basic strategy will be devised to cater for the components decided upon.

Here in this phase we may establish the infrastructure set up for the ODC. This may include setting up of the Physical Infrastructure including standard Office equipment to cater for a software development environment such and also the assignment of expert professionals with relevant skill sets to the project requirements.

The duration of this initial phase takes around 2 - 8 weeks time.

Phase 2 – Pilot Project

This is a critical phase to ensure the smooth long term functioning of the ODC. This phase deals with the setting up of the functional processes, which will be implemented and improved upon throughout the life of the ODC with a pilot project. A detailed discussion is held to determine the Communication protocol, Operational efficiency/Reporting structure, Specific roles and responsibilities assigned to specific personnel.
The Project Delivery Methodology and the Escalation procedures are also discussed and we usually in most cases encourage our clients to adopt an iterative methodology and development process like the Unified Process and Extreme Programming.

Typically a pilot project is carried over a 4 week period, but this may vary depending on the scope of your project.

The duration of this initial phase takes around 4 – 8 weeks time.

Phase 3 – Transitional Handover

In this stage we discuss the transitional handover of the remaining processes and migrating these to offshore locations. Here we agree the standards and efficiency levels by defining Service Level Agreements (SLAs), scheduling and the facilitation of customer visits should that be required. It is important at this point that we are clear on the project management methodology used coupled with the software processes involved.

Phase 4 – Project/Service Management

Primarily the objective of this stage is to consistently meet and exceed expectations. At the execution level, we supervise the processes to facilitate and ensure the smooth functioning of the ODC. The parameters of Productivity turn around time and quality on our side must be met.

Customer Relationship Management is fostered and maintained for the entire life cycle. We provide weekly telephone reviews daily reports a single point of contact to ensure that you are continuously kept in touch with your ODC.

Other Considerations

To achieve maximum benefit from an engagement, Xyronet has identified some other considerations:

Manpower needs may vary from period to period as such the client is required to give a one month notice to Xyronet for any additional resources. Similarly a two month notice will be required for a reduction in the available resources.
Xyronet will ensure that the communication between the client onsite team and the client offshore team (ODC) is effective as agreed in phase 2 of setting up the (ODC).
Commercial framework will need to be established with resources committed to the project billed on an hourly basis on agreed rates for various levels and skill sets.
Exit Policy reflecting the end of the contract or any termination for whatever reason, Xyronet would immediately return all material related to the project, to the client.

Synergy of ideas to promote a fresh looking perspective.
First class solutions that add value to your organization.
Talented staff to cater for all aspects of your project life cycle.
Solid offshore capabilities helping you reduce costs if you decide to outsource.