- Application Development
Traditionally the offshoring IT function of choice, offerings are mature and as safe a bet as you’re going to get. Experts suggest starting small with a project or two in order to get your bearings.
- Testing
Outsourcing testing functions may also be another good way to start small, particularly if your organization is just dipping its toes in the offshoring pool.
- Application Management
If you’d prefer to keep the dev team but are looking to lighten their workload, then application management outsourcing may
- Database Management
Database management is a particularly attractive app management function for outsourcing. An outsourcing firm often retains better database and data management experts than the typical enterprise for a fraction of the price.
- ERP
Another specific application function picking up in outsourcing popularity. SAP expertise in particular can be costly to hire fulltime. Either onshore or offshore providers may be able to more efficiently handle ERP management.
- Help Desk
Outsourcing help desk services can streamline an organization, though more advanced support can be hampered by language barriers if this function goes offshore.
- PC Maintenance
A no-brainer, though debate remains over using an onshore or offshore provider. A compromise: pick a provider that offers a hybrid approach who can bring local team members on site when necessary.
- Systems Integration
As M&A activity picks up, systems integration will continue to grow in importance. The fusion of onshore and offshore outsourcing is useful in this case, as onsite work is a necessary component of integration tasks.
- Infrastructure Management
A popular option over the last several years, but wholesale commitment is not for the faint of heart. This is another candidate for a combined offshore/onshore delivery.
- Business Process Outsourcing
BPO and knowledge process outsourcing are gaining steam, and CIOs are being tapped to oversee this kind of outsourcing due to their previous outsourcing experience.
Outsourcing 
