Case Study: Managing Offshore Software Development

Submitted by BDTI on Mon, 03/20/2006 - 18:00

Increasingly, processor vendors need to deliver extensive software libraries optimized for their processors. In the realm of signal processing applications, this software may include large libraries of building-block functions (filters, transforms, etc.), application modules (such as audio or video compression algorithms), and complete end-product reference designs.

To meet these software needs, many processor vendors are attracted to offshore software development firms due to their low cost. But this solution is not without its challenges.

One difficulty is that companies in need of signal processing software are often new to signal processing applications. As a result, they may not know precisely what software they need, or the details of the functionality and APIs of the needed components. And they may not have the expertise needed to evaluate whether the software they receive is well crafted. A further challenge in offshore development lies in choosing a software development house with confidence, particularly when it is thousands of miles away.

A large microprocessor vendor that was just beginning to target signal processing applications asked BDTI to help develop a library of signal processing functions for its processor. BDTI helped select the functions to be included, and created a detailed specification for their implementation. BDTI then oversaw the development work, which was performed by offshore software developers. The resulting library helped the vendor successfully address signal processing applications with its applications.

With BDTI’s help, companies can reap the benefits of low-cost offshore software development while minimizing risk and maximizing the quality of the delivered software. BDTI can help select an offshore development house, define signal-processing software components and APIs, create a testing plan, and oversee the implementation work. To learn more about BDTI’s services, contact Jeremy Giddings at giddings@BDTI.com

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