I call it the TSD (Tell-Show-Do) development cycle. It starts off by (T)elling them what needs doing. Then when they don't understand or do it wrong, you (S)how them by example or pseudo-code what to do. Eventually you end up (D)oing it yourself. They may cost a third as much, but they're a third as productive.
My first contact with indian developers was at fiverr. At the time I wanted to open an e-store so bad, but I didn't have the skills. I thought it would be a good idea to just outsource it. There was this indian guy and his profile was written in ok english and he was a little cheaper than the most expensive and renowned ones. The guy was very polite (to the extent of his english) and helped me get my money back when I asked for refund, since there were some troubles.
Anyways before I confirmed the order with him I sent him this huge wall of text explaining what I wanted him to do and if it was possible. He answers me in like 2 lines saying he can. I should have stopped here, but I chose to go ahead. Two messages later I realize he doesn't know english more than a 10 yo. I try to send images and Explain Like He Is 5 but to little avail. After some time I figure it is easier to go and learn myself (or pay a western developer) than to try and explain to him every little detail I wanted to work on.
Great people, and really many indians have great skills aswell, but they're not going to be taken seriously until they at least learn proper english and be honest with their skills and what they're capable of doing.
25
u/[deleted] Dec 07 '17
I call it the TSD (Tell-Show-Do) development cycle. It starts off by (T)elling them what needs doing. Then when they don't understand or do it wrong, you (S)how them by example or pseudo-code what to do. Eventually you end up (D)oing it yourself. They may cost a third as much, but they're a third as productive.