Turning the Tables: The View from Offshore During 60 Days in JST

TL;DR

This paper examines a 60-day offshore remote work experience during COVID-19, analyzing logistical, managerial, and productivity aspects of working across a 14-hour time difference in global software development.

Contribution

It provides insights into the advantages, disadvantages, and management strategies for geographically distributed teams working across significant time zones.

Findings

Identified logistical challenges of offshore remote work.

Highlighted management practices that support productivity.

Recommended improvements for future distributed team setups.

Abstract

A report and examination of a Remote Work experience during the Covid-19 pandemic encompassing a 14-hour time difference from the primary work location. Advantages and disadvantages of a globally distributed work experience as compared to an aligned time zone are explored. Logistical aspects of the arrangement are provided as well as the management support, peer reaction, and relative productivity. Recommendations are also provided on how to improve future geographically diverse team arrangements. [Keywords: Global Software Development, Offshore Development, Software Engineering, IT Management, Remote Work, Remote Office Design, Distributed Communications, Collaboration Technology, Team Management, Research, Development, Productivity]