I have mixed feelings about IT offshoring. On one hand, offshoring can significantly reduce costs for organizations, allowing them to remain competitive in a global market and potentially pass on savings to consumers. This can lead to increased efficiency, innovation, and growth, benefiting both businesses and consumers alike. On the other hand offshoring could have a negative impact on local economies and job markets in affected countries. Offshoring can lead to job losses or wage stagnation for workers in industries that are outsourced, causing economic hardship and social disruption in communities that rely heavily on those jobs. Additionally, there may be concerns about the quality of work produced by offshore providers, as well as potential risks related to data security, intellectual property protection, and regulatory compliance.
Ultimately, feelings about IT offshoring are often influenced by one’s personal values, including beliefs about economic globalization, social responsibility, and the role of government in regulating trade and labor practices. Some may view offshoring as a necessary aspect of a globalized economy, while others may prioritize the protection of domestic jobs and industries. Finding a balance between the potential benefits and drawbacks of offshoring requires careful consideration of these complex and often conflicting interests, as well as proactive measures to mitigate negative impacts on affected workers and communities.
For instance, Apple has faced scrutiny over its outsourcing practices, particularly regarding the conditions of workers in its overseas supply chain. While outsourcing manufacturing to countries like China has helped Apple reduce production costs and meet high demand for its products, reports of labor rights violations, poor working conditions, and environmental concerns at supplier factories have sparked controversy and public outcry. This highlights the ethical and social considerations involved in IT offshoring. While offshoring can offer financial benefits to companies like Apple, it also raises questions about corporate responsibility, worker rights, and the broader impacts on communities and environments in outsourcing destinations. The issue with Apple and outsourcing serves as a poignant example of the complexities and controversies surrounding IT offshoring, prompting discussions about the ethical and social implications of global supply chains and the responsibility of businesses to ensure fair and sustainable practices throughout their operations.
https://www.aalpha.net/blog/offshore-it-outsourcing-risks-and-how-to-avoid/
https://www.inc.com/erik-sherman/what-you-can-learn-about-outsourcing-from-apple.html
https://youteam.medium.com/ios-development-outsourcing-risks-mitigation-ee13cb1502db