Abstract:
Software companies around the world have accepted offshore development strategy
for last two decades. Many global players like, Samsung, Vizrt, Cefalo, etc. have
established their development centers in Bangladesh in recent times for facilitating
outsourcing activities. The objective of this research was to get a practical view on
sustainable growth of offshore software development centers in Bangladesh. This
research gives a guide line about major constraints of software development industry
as well as how to overcome these to make ICT industry sustainable in the global
market. In this research, quantitative and qualitative data were obtained by arranging
face to face interviews from management personnel of offshore development center
and the authority and opinion leader of the industry. SWOT analysis was done to
understand the position of the industry in Bangladesh. Collected data were analyzed
using Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), a decision making tool. According to
SWOT analysis it was found, Bangladesh has good chance to promote business in
offshore software development centers. Two main constraints were found, lack of
adequate resources and lack of professional association. In addition, to resolve the
constraints mainly three possible solutions were addressed, need proper industry
attachment with academic institutes, need to set up IT parks with necessary facilities
and need effective associations among the organizations.
Government has already taken initiative to set up IT parks by establishing Bangladesh
High Tech Park Authority, BHTPA. Moreover, Government should take initiative to
update our education. In addition industry attachment will help to develop
professionalism. Findings of the research work match with the ICT policies taken by
Bangladesh Government. However respective authorities must be very dynamic to be
successful. By quick implementation of Government steps, it is possible to increase
offshore development centers.
