If there were ever an IT Olympics, in which software developers could compete to solve programming problems, the event would likely take place on Gild, an online career development community where IT professionals from around the world do just that.

The Indian government has finally taken a step toward creating a comprehensive set of data protection rules to safeguard privacy, but the proposed regulations released this spring are likely to have a major impact on the global enterprises doing business with Indian outsourcers.

For nearly a decade, China has been touted as the biggest threat India's supremacy in offshore outsourcing, and its central government has been funneling money into developing the country's growing IT outsourcing (ITO) industry.

Always listen carefully for what is not said. Compared to most Americans, Indian executives tend to be indirect communicators. This means they may hesitate to push back if you ask something of them or their team that is unreasonable or impossible. They may also be reticent about sharing bad news with you. In either case, you could be left exposed. Active listening and probing questions can make you more effective.

If you're looking for a dose of reality, chances are you're not tuning in to a television comedy from NBC to get your fix. After all, this is the network that brought us "Friends," that hard-hitting look at what it's like to be young, single and broke in New York City, in which a spaciously and elaborately decorated two bedroom apartment (with balcony), fountain dancing, and a cozy coffee shop on the corner stood in for a basement apartment, turnstile hopping and the greasy deli down the block.

Atul Saini, CEO and CTO of Fiorano Software, shares with CIO his vision for BPM and SOA for the Indian CIOs.

In the insurance business, everyone's headed into the hinterland. But the cost of every new branch can bite deeply. Here's how going Open Source helped ING Life save US$1.7 million and funded its expansion plans.

China may be rising as an offshoring destination, but many companies are outsourcing to multiple countries rather than just choosing between China and India.

It's been 12 hours since your last bite to eat. Your stomach growls angrily as you meet the host who will take care of all your needs while you prepare to sign a big contract with his company. He takes you out to dinner at a nice restaurant--please tell me you didn't just order a steak!