Programming Outsourcing: What Should You Know

Thinking about outsourcing your next big software project? If yes, we are here to help you!

In this era, companies outsource programming to improve efficiency, focus on core tasks, and save resources, including budget costs, by leveraging programming outsourcing solutions. According to savvy business owners, it is not just a way to build top-quality software solutions, but outsourcing provider can also save many business resources, including budget costs.

Outsourcing brings great benefits to your business, but there are some challenges and issues when it comes to managing outsourcing partnerships. This article addresses them to help you evaluate whether dedicated software development is right for business growth for your company.

What is Programming Outsourcing?

Programming outsourcing is the practice of hiring external software developers, or companies to design, develop, and maintain software applications, websites, or other digital products. This approach allows businesses to access specialized skills, reduce costs, and increase productivity. By outsourcing programming tasks, companies can focus on their core activities while leaving the technical aspects to experts. This not only streamlines operations but also ensures that the software development is handled by professionals with the right expertise and experience.

Why Do Companies Outsource Computer Programming Services?

Companies hand over their core business operations to a specialized third party vendor to streamline them, increase profitability, strengthen market positions, and improve customer experience. By outsourcing, companies gain access to a skilled programming workforce that can handle complex projects and deliver high-quality results. In addition to programming, companies often outsource other IT related services-related services to enhance efficiency and leverage expert skills. They prefer entrusting a service to a third party to save time and budget costs and dedicate more resources to strategic business functions.

Types of Outsourcing

There are several types of various outsourcing vendors, each catering to different needs and preferences:

• Offshore outsourcing: This involves hiring developers from another country, often in a different time zone, to work on a project. It is typically chosen for its cost-effectiveness and access to a global talent pool.
• Onshore outsourcing: This type involves hiring developers from the same country or region. It offers the advantage of easier communication and cultural alignment, though it may be more expensive than offshore options.
• Nearshore outsourcing: This involves hiring developers from a nearby country or region. It strikes a balance between cost savings and ease of communication, often sharing similar time zones and cultural similarities.
• Outsourcing to a dedicated team: This model involves hiring a team of developers who work exclusively on your project. It provides a high level of control and integration, making it feel like an extension of your in-house team.

Each type of software outsourcing has its pros and cons, and the choice depends on the specific needs and goals of your project, making software development outsourcing a versatile option.

Outsourcing Models

When it comes to outsourcing programming services, there are several models to choose from, each catering to different project needs and business goals. Two popular outsourcing programming models are the Dedicated Team model and the Time and Material model.

Dedicated Team and Time and Material Models

Dedicated Team Model

The Dedicated Team model involves hiring a team of developers who work exclusively on your project. This model is ideal for long-term projects that require a high level of commitment and collaboration. With a dedicated team, you can expect:

• A team of experienced developers who are familiar with your project requirements
• A high level of commitment and collaboration from the team
• Flexibility to scale up or down as needed
• A fixed monthly fee for the team’s services

This model is particularly beneficial for complex, ongoing projects where continuity and deep understanding of the project are crucial. It allows businesses to build a cohesive team that feels like an extension of their in-house staff, fostering better communication and alignment with business goals.

Time and Material Model

The Time and Material model involves paying developers for the time they spend on your project. This model is ideal for short-term projects or projects with uncertain requirements. With the Time and Material model, you can expect:

• A flexible pricing structure that only charges for the time spent on your project
• A team of developers who can work on your project on an as-needed basis
• The ability to scale up or down quickly as needed
• A high level of transparency and control over the project’s budget

This model is perfect for projects where the scope is not fully defined or may change over time. It offers the flexibility to adapt to new requirements and ensures that you only pay for the actual benefits of outsourcing work done, making it a cost-effective solution for dynamic projects.

Both models have their pros and cons, and the choice ultimately depends on your project’s specific needs and requirements. By understanding these models, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your business objectives and your project development goals.

Offshore Software Programming Outsourcing

Offshore software outsourcing is the most common type of IT outsourcing. Most of the companies who opt for it prefer to delegate their software development projects to companies outside their countries to save cost and time.

Benefits Of Offshore Programming Outsourcing

• Huge savings on employees’ salaries and infrastructure. The most significant reason for going with outsourcing is cost-efficiency. There is no need for enterprises to hire and support an in-house team of professionals when they can access talent all over the world. There are also significant differences in the cost of facilities or equipment when it comes to comparing the two, with programming outsourcing being less heavy on the company’s budget.
• Access to the talented pools of developers. The best part about offshore programming outsourcing is that it gives you full access to highly-qualified and experienced developers around the world that may be hard to find in your country (or expect higher salaries).
• Time zone benefit. Outsourcing companies work according to your rules, so different time zones are never an obstacle.
• Less risk. Risks can be avoided if the project is outsourced to a company with a reliable project management system and time-tested app development process.
• Shared responsibility. When you decide to outsource a certain programming task, all parties agree on what has to be done and the risk management is shared among them. Managing the risks produced by the development team can be handled better by the offshore team as it is a major part of their business.
• Innovation and quality. As per your requirements, you can approach highly-qualified professionals who follow the highest standards in software development. They operate at high levels of reliability and efficiency and deliver work with minimum error rate.
• Almost in-house. If you wish to grow your business globally and cannot find enough qualified people in your country, outsourcing programming services provides you with a skilled team to grow rapidly in a short timeframe.

Cost Of Outsourcing Programming

As it is really hard to shortlist top outsourcing companies worldwide, we have picked up the most popular destinations all over the globe, whose programming outsourcing companies deliver solid results across technology areas while helping you stay cost-efficient. By hiring an outsourced team of developers, companies can significantly reduce costs while maintaining high productivity levels. Among European countries, Ukraine is known as the best destination to outsource programming projects. The tech experts here expect salaries of around $27,00-$30,000 per year. Poland is another European country housing three major software development centers where Polish programmers earn $12,000-$40,000 annually.

Famous Companies that Outsource Programming

Many renowned companies outsource programming services to stay competitive and innovative in the market. Here are some notable examples coding outsourcing companies:

• Google: Google outsources programming services to companies like Accenture and Infosys, allowing it to focus on its core business while leveraging external expertise for various projects.
• WhatsApp: WhatsApp has outsourced programming services to companies like IBM and Oracle to develop and maintain its messaging platform, ensuring it remains robust and scalable.
• Alibaba: Alibaba collaborates with companies like Microsoft and Amazon for its programming needs, enhancing its e-commerce platform with cutting-edge technology and expertise.
• Slack: Slack relies on outsourcing programming services to providers like AWS and Google Cloud, ensuring its communication platform is reliable and continuously improved.

These companies outsource programming services to development companies:

• Save costs and increase efficiency
• Access specialized skills and expertise
• Focus on their core business and strategic initiatives
• Improve their competitive advantage in the market

By outsourcing programming tasks, these industry leaders can innovate faster, reduce operational costs, and maintain a competitive edge, demonstrating the strategic value of outsourcing programming projects in the tech industry.

How to Outsource Programming Companies

There are several ways to find a programming outsourcing partner. When selecting a programming outsourcing company, it is crucial to ensure effective communication and collaboration, especially when managing teams across different time zones. First, you can use ratings of research and consulting firms. The Washington-based Clutch is a good example. These companies provide comprehensive and concise ratings across many software and technology areas and most countries. Another great option is word-of-mouth advice: ask about your business acquaintances, they may have had similar former project managers or someone to recommend. This way, you will get front-row feedback outlining the real advantages and disadvantages of a potential partner.

How to Get Started with Outsourcing Programming

To get started with outsourcing programming, follow these steps:

1. Define your project requirements: Clearly outline the scope, goals, and objectives of your project. This includes detailing the features, functionalities, and expected outcomes.
2. Choose an outsourcing model: Decide which type of outsourcing model best suits your needs, such as time and materials, fixed price, or dedicated team. Each model has its own advantages depending on the project’s complexity and budget.
3. Select an outsourcing partner: Research and choose a reputable outsourcing company that has experience in your industry and technology stack. Look for partners with a proven track record and positive client feedback.
4. Establish communication channels: Set up regular communication with your outsourcing partner to ensure smooth collaboration and progress tracking. Use tools like video calls, project management software, and instant messaging to stay connected.
5. Agree on a contract: Sign a contract that outlines the scope, timeline, budget, and expectations for the project. Ensure that all terms are clear and mutually agreed upon to avoid misunderstandings later.

What Tasks Can Outsourcing Cover?

Outsourcing can cover a wide range of tasks, including:

• Software development: Designing, developing, and testing software applications tailored to your business needs.
• Mobile app development: Creating mobile apps for Android and iOS devices, ensuring they are user-friendly and functional.
• Web development: Building and maintaining websites, e-commerce platforms, and web applications that are robust and scalable.
• UI/UX design: Creating user interface and user experience designs that enhance the usability and appeal of software applications and websites.
• Quality assurance and testing: Testing and ensuring the quality of software applications and websites to deliver a bug-free and reliable product.
• Maintenance and support: Providing ongoing maintenance and support for software applications and websites to ensure they remain up-to-date and functional.

How to Choose the Best Outsourcing Partner

To choose the best name outsourcing services partner, consider the following factors:

• Experience and expertise: Look for a partner with experience in your industry and technology stack. Their expertise will ensure they understand your project requirements and can deliver high-quality results.
• Portfolio and case studies: Review the partner’s portfolio and case studies to assess their quality of work. This will give you an idea of their capabilities and the types of projects they have successfully completed.
• Communication and collaboration: Ensure that the partner has a clear and transparent communication process. Effective communication is crucial for the success of any outsourcing project.
• Pricing and budget: Compare prices and budgets from different partners to find the best value. Make sure the pricing structure aligns with your budget and project requirements.
• Reviews and testimonials: Check online reviews and testimonials from previous clients to assess the partner’s reputation. Positive feedback from other clients can provide confidence in their reliability and performance.

By considering these factors, you can choose an outsourcing partner service provider that meets your needs and helps you achieve your goals.

The Importance of Relationships in Outsourcing

Building Trust and Collaboration

Building trust and collaboration is crucial when outsourcing programming services. A strong relationship between the client and project management tools the outsourcing company can lead to numerous benefits, including:

• Better communication and understanding of project requirements
• Increased trust and confidence in the outsourcing company’s abilities
• Improved collaboration and teamwork
• Higher quality deliverables and faster time-to-market
• Increased cost savings and efficiency

To build trust and collaboration, it’s essential to:

• Establish clear communication channels and protocols: Regular updates and open lines of communication help ensure everyone is on the same page.
• Set clear expectations and goals for the project: Defining what success looks like helps align efforts and measure progress effectively.
• Foster a culture of transparency and openness: Encouraging honesty and openness can prevent misunderstandings and build a stronger partnership.
• Encourage collaboration and teamwork: Promoting a collaborative environment where ideas and feedback are freely exchanged can lead to better outcomes.
• Provide regular feedback and updates: Continuous feedback helps improve processes and ensures the project stays on track.

By building trust and collaboration with most outsourcing companies, you can ensure a successful outsourcing experience that meets your project’s needs and requirements. A strong relationship with your outsourcing partner can lead to better project outcomes, increased efficiency, and a more enjoyable working experience for both parties.

The hospitality industry depends a lot on keeping customers happy, but it’s getting harder to attract and keep them. The pandemic hit this industry hard, and now market competition is tougher than ever, with competitive offerings swaying customers. Hospitality businesses are willing to spend big to win customers back. The main questions for many are: how can we stay ahead of the competition, keep our customers, and increase revenue? Keep reading—we’ve got some answers.

Customers today have so many options that getting their attention is a real challenge. It’s not easy to make them choose your business over others. What worked 10 years ago doesn’t work the same way now. Back then, people often chose businesses based on reputation. But with new types of businesses (boutique hotels, craft cafes) popping up or big enterprises getting a new strategy, expectations have changed. The good news is these businesses have shown what works: great customer service. They focus on personalizing the experience, making things easy for customers, offering loyalty programs, and using smart technology.

In this article, we’ll explore these tech strategies and show you how they can help your business grow, and double the revenue. Keep reading to learn more!

The Importance of Customer Satisfaction in the Hospitality Industry

Customer satisfaction, which equals exceptional customer experience, is the backbone of the hospitality industry. It plays a central role in driving revenue and loyalty, as satisfied customers are more likely to return and recommend a hotel, restaurant, or other hospitality business to others. In fact, a study by the Harvard Business Review found that a 1% increase in customer satisfaction can lead to a 0.5% increase in revenue. Moreover, loyal customers are more likely to forgive mistakes and continue doing business with a company, even if they experience a negative encounter.

Let’s quickly review the challenges the hospitality industry is facing right now so we can move on to the solutions and our case studies.

Challenges in Hospitality

As businesses navigate the changes in the hospitality industry, there are some key areas where a little improvement can go a long way. From improving customer service to embracing digital transformation and tackling labor shortages, we’ll take a closer look at today’s biggest challenges—and, more importantly, how technology can step in to help. Let’s get started!

Poor Customer Service

Even with strong and high-quality business offerings, poor customer service can drive potential customers and existing customers away. Common issues include:

• Long wait times in customer service queues (it is worth remembering that our attention spans 8 seconds, and we live in a very busy world, so quick and efficient responses are more important than ever.)
• Poorly trained customer service representatives
• Lack of follow-up
• Services not being done properly or quickly
• Recall issues that require multiple service calls

These problems can frustrate customers. But, at Intellectsoft, we believe that the right approach, combined with technology, can address them effectively.

Digital Transformation Gaps

Approximately 50% of hotels are adopting new technologies, with 43% automating repetitive tasks and 39% upgrading existing systems.
Source: workstaff.app

Source: workstaff.app

While many businesses are adopting digital solutions, some still struggle with outdated systems and fragmented data. Legacy companies often face chaos when trying to manage their data and create new systems or add features.

Some of the recent examples include clients coming to us to create AI solutions for their services while their data simply was not ready for the advanced tasks. We advise stepping back, communicating with a company objective, and working on keeping the data clean (centralized, structured, and segmented).

When we’re asked to create advanced systems using AI, we always emphasize the importance of organized data. To train AI and build such complicated systems that truly work, you need to start from the very beginning—collecting, storing, centralizing, and organizing it. We encourage our clients to align all departments to work internally on the data so we can create a unified digital system that delivers personalized experiences.

If you’re unsure where to start with your data, we can help. Collecting feedback at various touchpoints along the customer journey is crucial for gaining insights into customer satisfaction and loyalty. Book an IT consultation with us, and our experts will guide you in mapping out a path to get more from your data and build a system that works for your business and team.

Reskilling Staff

The pandemic hit hard in early 2020, especially for the hospitality and travel industries. Even five years later, many businesses are still feeling the impact. Recruiting and retaining skilled staff has become a major challenge post-pandemic.

Reskilling to address technology’s impact is of utmost importance, as about 40% of hotel General Managers place it among their top three workforce challenges.

Source: Deloitte

We strongly believe that adopting the right technology can help. For example, creating an app to train your staff not only saves time but also ensures consistency in learning. AI assistants can also work alongside your team, helping with tasks like recruitment (providing industry insights, crafting emails) and staff training. Imagine having an app dedicated to making your team’s work easier and more efficient!

How Technology Tackles These Challenges and Supports a Customer-Centric Hospitality Culture

Automation, AI, and similar technologies may threaten many. However, the debate about replacing humans isn’t about that—it’s about cooperation and working hand in hand with technology to achieve the highest standards and establish brand-new “golden standards.” Technology is here to assist staff in listening to and collecting customer insights from data.

Let’s review some of our cases to see examples of how technology helps improve customer experience and supports customer service.

Examples of Intellectsoft projects

Property management systems (PMS)

We created a web platform and mobile app that makes managing daily tasks easier and offers extra services to improve residents’ experience. It gives a clear overview of daily activities and helps with managing units and users. Residents can easily book amenities, submit service requests, and report incidents. The platform also includes features for equipment management, key instructions, workflows, and custom permissions. This makes it easier for staff to stay on top of equipment and ensure residents have all the information they need. Plus, tools like announcements, quick votes, a forum, and a community calendar help build a connected and engaged community.

Guest Experience Management App

Our next app helped our client improve their guest experience by replacing printed marketing materials and the need for phone calls with a smart solution. Now, guests can easily order in-room dining, make reservations, and interact with staff— through a simple tablet in their room. The solution includes three parts: a custom in-room tablet with a variety of services, an admin panel for hotel staff and service providers, and a backend system that connects everything together. This approach makes things easier for guests and staff, improving both convenience and efficiency.

Existing Customers First: Building Loyalty with Personalized Touchpoints

Keeping existing customers is not just a strategy; it’s well-known that retaining existing customers is more cost-effective than acquiring new ones. In fact, research shows that it costs five times more to acquire a new customer than to retain an existing one. KPMG named customer retention as the number one revenue driver for the company.

Moreover, a 5% increase in customer retention can lead to a 25% to 95% increase in profits, showing the significant impact loyal customers can have on a business’s bottom line. Retention strategies, like personalized experiences and loyalty programs, can foster long-term relationships and generate recurring revenue, ultimately making them an invaluable part of any business model.

Personalization: How Technology Can Help?

Everyone loves to feel special—it’s part of being human. In hospitality, personalization has evolved from being a luxury to an essential standard. With the right technology to manage your data effectively, you can deliver those “wow” moments that guests won’t forget.

More than half of hotel chains are already using personalization features on their websites, booking platforms, and apps, and another 39% are planning to follow suit soon. They’re tailoring experiences to fit guest preferences perfectly.

Source: Deloitte

How does technology make it happen?

• CRM Systems: They help you keep track of guest preferences, booking history, and special requests so you can offer services tailored just for them.
• Loyalty Programs: Personalized rewards and offers show your guests that you value them, keeping them coming back for more.
• AI Personalization: AI analyzes guest data to predict what they’ll love (from room upgrades to local recommendations) before they even ask.
• IoT Gadgets: Smart room features like voice-activated assistants, or temperature controls adjust to your guests’ preferences, making their stay more comfortable.

With tech-powered personalization, you’re building loyalty and maximizing the lifetime value of every customer.

Our Case Study: Smart Hotel Management & Loyalty Program

For one of our clients, we created a smart room solution, complete with a custom IoT system. Guests can use a mobile app to control services, explore amenities, and find resort information– with a special touch to their suite type. For the client’s entertainment business, we improved their legacy software by running a full IT and code check, fixing issues, and making the system better for customers.

Along with that, we developed a mobile app for the loyalty program, allowing businesses to effortlessly reward their customers and keep them engaged with exclusive benefits.

Our solutions not only helped the client with special experiences for guests; it also improved operations, cutting costs by eliminating inefficiencies. Here’s what our experts shared:

“We transitioned away from ESB (Enterprise Service Bus) systems, which previously cost millions, and replaced them with more efficient, self-managed solutions. Similarly, we’ve implemented Device Farms that improved operations and saved resources.”

Leveraging Software to Increase Upsell Opportunities

Here are some examples of tech tactics that will help your team sell more and introduce new offerings to existing customers, improve overall efficiency leaving your team grateful:

Dynamic Pricing Algorithms

For finance and marketing teams, manually calculating pricing by segment to introduce your clients can be incredibly challenging. AI-powered tools can strongly optimize these strategies by analyzing your database in detail.

Upselling via Apps

Boosting revenue in the hospitality business often comes down to personalized experiences. Imagine this: a guest books a room, and then your app suggests a spa package or a room upgrade at just the right moment. Later, it nudges them to book a dinner reservation or a guided tour designed to their preferences. With apps offering these personalized recommendations during and after bookings, you’re not just increasing your revenue per guest but also skyrocketing their experience. And you do it in a sustainable way, not by speculating, but by offering what your customers desire based on their previous experiences. It’s a win-win: seamless, helpful, and far from pushy.

Inventory and Resource Management Software

Making every resource count in your hospitality business is key. Inventory and resource management software allows you to effortlessly track everything from linens to room availability, ensuring nothing goes to waste. Having real-time insights to reduce overstock, avoid shortages, and optimize operations assists sustainably keep everything under control and know what you need to focus more. It helps maximize room occupancy by aligning bookings with available resources, ensuring every room and item is used effectively. This approach leads to smarter management, better guest experiences, and a noticeable boost to your bottom line.

Adopting these strategies not only optimizes your operations but also drives business growth. Ready to discover how technology can elevate your goals? We’re here to create a tailored solution for you.

Steps For Implementing a Customer Service Technology Solution

Improving customer service in hospitality doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right technology, you can smooth the path of your operations, speed up response times, and elevate the overall guest experience. Here’s where you can make it happen:

1. Understand Your Needs

Start by identifying the challenges your business is facing. Are you struggling to manage high volumes of inquiries, track customer feedback, or personalize the guest experience? Pinpointing your needs will guide you to the best solutions.

2. Pick the Right Tools

Choose technology that aligns with your goals. Look for solutions that are scalable, easy to use, and integrate effortlessly with your current systems. Options like CRM software, live chat tools, or a guest experience app can make a difference.

3. Equip Your Team

Technology is only as effective as the people using it. Train your staff to make the most of the new tools, so they can deliver exceptional service and resolve issues quickly. Confident, well-equipped staff creates happy, loyal customers.

4. Keep Improving

Once implemented, monitor how well the solution works. Are response times improving? Are customers more satisfied? Regular evaluations will help you fine-tune your approach and keep things running harmoniously.

Some Tech Ideas for Hospitality Businesses

• CRM Software: Manage customer interactions and preferences.
• Guest Experience Apps: Delight guests with personalized experiences right at their fingertips.
• Amenity Management Systems: Simplify operations for everything from room service to facility bookings.
• Helpdesk Software: Resolve customer issues optimally.
• Live Chat Tools: Offer instant support and answers.
• Social Media Management Tools: Keep customer interactions engaging and organized.

Integrating these strategies will not only improve your customer service but also deliver unforgettable customer satisfaction, loyalty, and, ultimately, your bottom line. Ready to take the next step? Book a consultation with our experts.

Conclusion

To wrap up everything we’ve discussed, customer satisfaction and experience are at the heart of hospitality. Retaining customers is more than just keeping them around—building strong, long-lasting relationships and consistently meeting their evolving needs. By understanding their pain points and offering personalized solutions, you can inspire loyalty and drive progress. With the right technology and continuous improvement, your business can stay ahead, let go of what no longer serves you, and keep growing.

At Intellectsoft, with over 17 years of experience in software development, our expert team is ready to help. We create everything from mobile apps to full-fledged portals and systems, leveraging the latest technologies like AI, Cloud, and Machine Learning. With deep experience in the hospitality industry, we’re here to craft personalized solutions that bring your business unforgettable customer experience and retain your valuable clients.

Ready to double your revenue and level up your customer retention strategy with personalized technology? Contact our experts, and we look forward to working hand in hand with you to build or revitalize the perfect app or system for you.