Not a new thing for anyone that businesses are continually seeking ways to optimise costs, access global talent, and accelerate project timelines. One strategic approach that’s been embraced since the 80s and is a part of most tech companies nowadays is outsourcing software development.
Let’s take Google as an example which has been outsourcing some of its software development since 2014 or earlier and still relies heavily on third-party service providers. “Outsourcing is not something that’s new to Google … Google sees greater value in outsourcing, as it is more cost-effective,” a spokesperson for one of the outsourcing firms said.
However, to ensure outsourcing is a successful option for your business, you should approach your future partner as a strategic part of the puzzle. The decision to outsource comes with its own set of considerations, particularly regarding the location of the outsourcing team. In this blog post, we will explore the three primary models of outsourcing: onshore, nearshore, and offshore software development, and delve into their respective advantages and challenges.
Before we dive into the specifics, it’s essential to understand what each term means.
Choosing the right outsourcing model — onshore, nearshore, or offshore — depends on your business’s specific needs, budget, and goals. If cultural alignment, ease of communication, and managing the development process are your top priorities, onshore development might be the best fit.
If you’re looking for a balance between cost savings and operational efficiency, nearshore development could be the way to go. For those seeking significant cost reductions and access to a broad talent pool, offshore development offers compelling advantages despite the challenges.
However, the decision-making process doesn’t end there. It’s also crucial to consider the long-term impact of your choice on your business’s growth and operational agility. This is where partnering with the right outsourcing provider can make all the difference.
We offer a unique outsourcing solution that combines the best of onshore, nearshore, and offshore models, blending the benefits of an in-house software development team with the flexibility and cost efficiency of outsourced IT services. Our approach ensures you receive the technical expertise, security, and stability you’d expect from an in-house team. Additionally, you are enjoying the scalability and financial advantages that software development outsourcing brings.
Our global recruitment team excels in tapping into an expansive international talent pool, meticulously selecting software developers or assembling dedicated engineering teams that meet your exact requirements — whether you prefer onshore, nearshore, or offshore solutions. The team we build for you will be fully dedicated to your project, integrating seamlessly within your existing structures. Moreover, your intellectual property (IP) always remains with you, ensuring your sensitive information is secure.
Additionally, we’re happy to announce that we’re expanding to one of Europe’s hottest tech destinations — Porto, Portugal! This vibrant city is about to become the home of our newest tech hub, where we’ll be focusing on delivering top-tier services and innovative solutions.
While we’re not quite ready to officially launch just yet (stay tuned for early October!), we couldn’t wait to share this exciting development with you. Porto is a city full of potential, and we’re excited to be a part of its growing tech landscape. A fantastic nearshore destination for our European and UK clients!
We understand that integrating a remote team, whether onshore, nearshore, or offshore, can be challenging. That’s why, based on our extensive experience working with Startups and Scaleups, we ensure our teams quickly adopt your company culture and immerse themselves in your product. Meanwhile, we manage all the back-office functions, such as payroll, taxes, health insurance, and equipment, while also ensuring the psychological safety of the team.
Our processes are designed to be as agile as your business needs. With a one-month notice period and a recruitment timeline of just 1 to 8 weeks, depending on the required technical skills, we can scale your team up or down quickly to match your project demands — onshore, nearshore, or offshore.
We invite you to explore our case studies and see how global Startups have benefited from our dedicated remote teams since 2018. Whether you need a full team or specific expertise, Ivy Tech is here to help you navigate the complexities of software development outsourcing with confidence and success.
167-169 Great Portland Street
5th Floor
London
W1W 5PF
© 2025 Ivy Tech