What is offshore software testing?
Offshore software testing is a software development model where an organization outsources the software testing process to a service partner team located in a different country and time zone. The offshore testing process goes through a typical software testing cycle including the writing, running and reporting of software tests.
Most types of software tests can be performed by the contracted service provider. For example, quality assurance tests, mobile app tests, user acceptance tests and smoke tests can be performed using offshore software testing. When a test is completed by an offshore testing company, they send a test report back to the organization for verification, which is either approved or sent back.
Organizations use offshore software testing primarily to save on costs. Outsourcing testing can be much cheaper than having to maintain an in-house testing team. An organization might use the saved expenses on other project priorities or pass the savings along to the customer. Because offshore testing takes place in a separate time zone, it is possible to work around the clock on software.
Advantages of offshore software testing
There are several clear advantages to offshore software testing, including the following:
- Cost reduction. Offshore software testing often reduces costs for the outsourcing organization.
- Expanded talent pool. Offshore service partners may have expertise in specific areas, such as security or a specific type of test development. Niche specialists may also be cheaper to hire overseas.
- Uninterrupted work cycles. Offshore testers can work on software outside the normal working hours of the outsourcing organization because the offshore testers are in another time zone.
- Fast release schedule. Offshore testing can expedite software development.
Disadvantages of offshore software testing
There are a myriad of disadvantages to offshore software testing that can occur if an organization focuses only on obtaining the lowest costs available, including the following:
- Communication barrier. Possible communication errors can arise due to language barriers.
- Time zone difference. Time zone differences can make timely communication difficult.
- Low-skill workers. If an organization opts for the lowest costs available, then there are likely less skilled individuals performing software tests and, therefore, a lower quality of work.
When using offshore software testing, organizations should make communication a top priority. An organization should clarify specific procedures and software documentation, as well as define cost, high-risk areas and software testing tools beforehand. Organizations and service partners should coordinate meetings as well to ensure the process is moving along smoothly.
Offshore vs. onshore software testing
Onshore software testing -- or onshore outsourcing -- is when an organization outsources testing to a service partner within the same geographical area and time zone. Onshore software testing works similarly to offshore testing; the defining factor between them is the geographical location and time zone of the organization and service partner.
Organizations might use onshore testing if they want to extend and improve their testing capabilities by enlisting another team with additional or more specific knowledge of testing. Because of the relatively short distance between teams, there is a smaller communication barrier than with offshore software testing. This enables more regular communication between the organization and service partner.
Advantages to onshore software testing include the following:
- Easier management of testing requirements.
- Easier and more consistent communication between teams.
- Less misunderstandings because there are fewer language barriers and, therefore, fewer resultant errors.
- More control over assigned consultants.
The one main disadvantage is the higher cost compared to offshore software testing. However, these costs may differ due to the economy in each location.
Offshore vs. nearshore software testing
Nearshore software testing -- or nearshore outsourcing -- is when an organization outsources testing to a service partner in a different country but within the same time zone. Nearshore software testing services work similarly to both onshore and offshore testing.
This option is a middle ground between offshore and onshore software testing for organizations that want to take advantage of price reductions but also want easier communication and involvement between teams. Nearshore software testing carries the same disadvantage as onshore testing: It might not be as cost-effective as offshore software testing.
