You're missing the point when it comes to outsourcing by companies like IBM and EDS. They have the opportunity to create a two tier software consulting model. Use local US consultants to work with local companies to develop requirements and set up local test/production environments, but outsource all development to the cheapest country. Albeit, there is still a lag between customer issue and its resolution but at least the customer can vent immediately to a local support team.
You're missing the point when it comes to outsourcing by companies like IBM and EDS. They have the opportunity to create a two tier software consulting model. Use local US consultants to work with local companies to develop requirements and set up local test/production environments, but outsource all development to the cheapest country. Albeit, there is still a lag between customer issue and its resolution but at least the customer can vent immediately to a local support team.
See http://thorntree.lonelyplanet.com/thorn/branches.p l . It's the most active travel message board I've found so far.