American businesses continue to heavily rely on offshore application development – mainly, to save money and accelerate the development cycle. But in recent years, quality-driven business managers seeking the cost-saving advantages of offshore development have increasingly preferred to go the nearshore development route.
What is nearshore development?
Nearshore development is software development outsourced to a team located in a nearby country, rather than a far-off location like India or China.
One of the main advantages of nearshore app development is the time zone difference. When you work with a team across the world in a very different time zone, it’s common to not receive timely responses to questions or easily coordinate meetings. With a nearshore team, the time difference is much smaller (or even nil).
This makes it easier to communicate and collaborate in real time – and even receive responses to questions within minutes. In the fast-paced world of app development, where timely communication is critical for on-time delivery of a successful application, this is important.
Another big benefit of nearshore app development is cultural compatibility. Working with a team in a faraway place has often resulted in misunderstandings due to cultural differences that hinder the project's progress. With a nearshore team, cultural differences are minimal (or even nonexistent). This makes it easier to understand each other's perspective and work together in a highly productive manner. Under the nearshore model, it’s often far easier to build trust and develop a strong working relationship with your development team.
Cheaper may not be better.
While it may be tempting to go with the cheapest option and hire a team in a country with a lower cost of living, as the saying goes, you often get what you pay for. Nearshore teams generally have slightly higher rates than offshore teams, but often deliver applications that are far superior in quality. One major reason for this vast difference: nearshore teams are typically more in synch with the U.S. market and have a better understanding of what it takes to deliver a successful app for American users.
Going onsite (if you prefer).
During app development, some business managers prefer to meet with their development team in person, to get an improved sense of the team’s working style, help strengthen the working relationship, and ensure the project is on track. Due to distance, this is often not very realistic with offshore teams. But because nearshore teams are more accessible geographically, you may be able to meet your team in person if you’re so inclined.
Conclusion.
Nearshore app development delivers the best of all worlds: improved communication, excellent cultural compatibility, cost savings, and even the option of meeting your development team in person. Thus, by going nearshore, you’re more likely to be delighted with the end result. If you're thinking of outsourcing your app development, consider a nearshore team for a smooth and successful project.
To learn more about nearshore application development, download our free guide, The Nearshore Solution: How to Get U.S. App Development at Around Half the Price. It provides valuable insights on how to save money and get the best results with nearshore app development. Don't miss this opportunity to optimize your app development process.