India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Ben Leuenhagen, Vermillion, SD — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 12:57:03 GMT

It's hard for me to garnish sympathy for another country when there are plenty of our citizens are having trouble currently here in the States

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

lou — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 13:11:55 GMT

I hope whomever is elected president, either way the outsourcing of jobs will cease. I'm tired of seeing people struggle to find work in the US and our economy go down the drain while our dollars are financing booming economies in other countries.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Clement Dias — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 13:42:46 GMT

Another "Entitlement Program" in the making. India has become too dependant on the U.S. and wants the U.S. to guarantee its "oligarchs".

Just a few months ago, many in India were crowing about how they were overtaking the U.S.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Jay, KY — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 13:44:36 GMT

If we don't stop this outsourcing then we better be ready to outsource the future of our children and grandchildren. Outsourcing the "American Dream" while the Wall Street fat cats get fatter.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Clement Dias — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 13:46:37 GMT

With unemployment in our country, I hope the "back office" makes a comeback to its own home.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

taxpro, philadelphia — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 13:54:55 GMT

outsourcing is not booming, as it was in the 90s. that doesn't mean it's not happening, but it's not a rush of the lemmings as it once was.

many firms are bringing those positions back to the US for a variety of reasons, including the fact that anticipated savings did not materialize and customer complaints.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

LS, Boulder, CO — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 14:07:27 GMT

As someone who's likely to lose his IT job to outsourcing within the next year or so, I'm struggling to shed a tear over the concerns of Indian call center workers.

I'll be happy if a President Obama slows the flood of jobs overseas - but I'm not holding my breath.

I'd just like to know who decided that America can live without a middle class anymore.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

jack richardson — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 14:09:06 GMT

I reiterate my position on "free trade" and outsourcing: when American businesses close down America-based operations, and leave American workers stranded without financial assistance, our Govt should in effect say " Good luck, but don't bring your products back here for sale"-

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Jennifer, Portland OR — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 14:14:23 GMT

We didn't take India to raise. The President of the United States is supposed to be OUR advocate. If "engaging with the world" means turning Americans into poor people, then THAT person needs to be run out on a pole.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

elvis parsley — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 14:22:42 GMT

we here in the u.s. are fighting to keep what few middle-class jobs remain here.this so-called "free trade" has a negative effect on working class america.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Melissa, IL — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 14:23:08 GMT

Another good reason to vote for Obama!

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Bruce L. — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 14:25:39 GMT

The financial meltdown in the US is likely to soon cause significant unemployment in all sectors. The new President, whether it be McCain or Obama, is likely to reduce outsourcing to preserve US jobs. For too long, both India and China have been too dependent on using their cheap labor to encourage outsourcing of US manufacturing, technical and office jobs. It's time for both countries to pursue economic growth via their respective domestic economies, and help boost US jobs by revaluing their currencies to buy American products.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

LR Santa Clarita, CA — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 14:27:32 GMT

To answer an earlier question, union-buster Ronald Reagan and long-standing Republican policies have behind the destruction of the middle-class. I am another worker who has watched my co-worker's jobs go to India, and I expect that my job will eventually go there as well. This outsourcing of jobs is toxic to corporate culture, leaving the remaining workers angry and fearful.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

RRD, NYC, NY — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 14:31:14 GMT

It's very simple. Keep the jobs in the US. Other countries need to find their own way to sustain employment for their citizens.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

JoJo, Livonia, Mi — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 14:31:17 GMT

LS-We can't live without a middleclass. The is what is happening right now. We have been downsized, rightsized and smartsized out of our jobs and our spending power. Who did these companies think would buy their products?

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Victor Gill — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 14:31:41 GMT

I do not know what these guys are talking about. The protectionist "intellectuals" often talk the talk, but do not walk the walk. Everyone wants the prices on goods and services to be down. At the same time, they want related jobs to stay in US ansd pay the great salaries!!! Of course I would like to see jobs stay here. But unless people are ready to pay higher prices on goods and services, costs have to be reduced and hence jobs will be shipped to China, India and whoever works cheaper! Common economics friends!!! So I am a little tired of folks shoppingh in walmart to save prices (nothing in walmart is made in USA) and then expressing anger about jobs going abroad. HELLOOO....IF NO ONE NOTICED, WE ARE PART OF THE PROBLEM!!!

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Stephen, San Diego CA — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 14:34:24 GMT

As American companies continue to send job overseas to cut labor costs I think it sends a message that we hold little value in the capability and viability of our own people. I think this surge of outsourcing we have seen over the last decade needs to stop.

I for one am not comfortable with knowing that my personal financial information, social security number, etc. are easily accessed by foreign organizations and I would much rather see U.S. companies encouraging economic growth internally, especially in times of economic stress.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Salomi Abbas — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 14:41:47 GMT

I'm a "person of Indian origin" born, raised and educated in the United States of America, my beloved home. My parents spent thousands of dollars on my education, paid their taxes, lived legally and frugally, and still haven't been able to American dream. We have a 10 year old Toyota, and still live in a rental unit, with bills to pay, expensive healthcare insurance to pay for, commute costs, etc. Next door to our community is a subdivision of brand new million dollar homes, owed mostly by Indian immigrants. Most of these people grew up and studied in India, for less than US$100 a year, came on work permits or spousal visas to the US - as adults- secured high-paying IT jobs, bank jobs, healthcare jobs (by studying pre-Med in India for next-to-free, then doing a minor USMLE exam, gaining medical residency in the US for three years, and then "minting money" as they themselves ut it, loan-free scot-free once they got out of their "three year" fully-paid-for med school), etc. I want to know what I, as an American first, and an Asian American second, and a Muslim American third, have done wrong by growing up in the USA, and still unable to secure a job that pays more than $40,000 a year after getting a Bachelors AND a Masters degree in Accountancy from a good quality school in the Midwest, at the cost of roughly $100,000. Wat have these immigrants who earn 100k right in their first year in the US done right? Why should I vote for someone who is taking my jobs away and giving it to someone who does not even LIKE to stay here in America, who builds their retirement homes in India, who plans to leave the US in a few years after educating their own kids at our expense here?

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Concerned — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 14:43:35 GMT

Between the outsourcing and bring consultants here -- many American workers have lost their jobs. I find it hard to be sympathetic to India. This morning on the news programs "technology" was one of the fields on the do not pursue list for Americans. Right now we are being forced to direct our next generation of workers towards "plumming", "health care", "welding", and other blue collar jobs. Don't get me wrong -- nothing wrong with blue collar workers and we definitely need them. Those who want to pursue other avenues like Technology, science, etc, should also have the right to do so. How can we remain a force in the world at this rate.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

IT professional — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 14:45:37 GMT

It appears that is John McCain that is spreading the wealth or, more exactly the poverty from India to USA.
So many good jobs have been lost due to ouffshoring, that it no wonder why the real income has droppped in the lat 8 years and so few jobs have been created.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Sven, Washington DC — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 14:47:33 GMT

Not Rocket Science: Indian Nationals don't vote in the U.S. But they have a lot to do with the over 7 million American Citizens jobs that have been lost due to outsourcing since President Bush came into office. Figure it out for yourselves.

India is a talented country. Their sole focus should be creating new jobs - unrelated to jobs that previously and currently exist in the U.S.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Prolife christ-centered Indy — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 14:47:47 GMT

Wow... what a turnaround! the Democrats are now the ones protecting US jobs, and the Republicans are the outsourcing champions sending even our own sovereignity of our ports to DUBAI, and our treasury to China.. I never saw this one coming... No wonder McCain is losing big! I can't get excited about him... I used to like him, but wow... Truth is stranger than fiction... Yu couldn't make this stuff up..

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Nick, PA — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 14:47:55 GMT

Economics escapes these comments. If the costs are too high for a US business to compete, it must outsource to survive. Would you spend 30-40% more for the same product to support the middle class? You might say yes to support your argument but in reality, no we will not. The rest of the world won't either. The only thing Obama can do is raise the cost of outsourcing to the point that it is no longer competitive, eliminating the option of US businesses staying competitive on the global markets, and further disrupting the US ecomony. That means a lot less efficiency, a lot less tax revenue, and a lot less economic growth.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Kaine, Santa Ana, CA. — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 14:48:27 GMT

Even people in India realize that John McCain will favor the greedy entrepreneurs and keep outsourcing jobs to keep their costs down. Obama has said that he would give tax credits to companies who bring thos jobs back. Thats why Indians don't want Obama-they care more about their jobs over there.

It's funny that McCain's slogan is country first but he does everything but keep country first in mind because he never talks about bringing jobs back home.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Tressia Williams — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 14:48:45 GMT

outsourcing is one of the worst things that could have happen to many american citizens. After we help to build these companies that are now putting us out of work to send jobs to another country. And then they get concerened when unemployment numbers rises. What did they think was going to happen if you are taking away our jobs.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Hammer, Mpls, MN — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 14:49:27 GMT

I agree with everyone on this board, that outsourcing is a good reason why the middle class is disappearing. When I started IT consultant it was mainly Americans and you could get a decent hourly wage based off you of years of experience. Now, I most of my co-workers are from India and other places, who don’t necessary do a better job than a native American but they get the job because they are willing to take a 50% cut off of the prevailing wage. If I take a 50% cut on my wage then I could not even afford to live in my own home and definitely could not send my kids to college. I believe that American IT workers are being pushed out of the market mainly because companies want a cheaply made product and not necessary a better product. One company I can name right off the top of my head. DELL

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Jim Rousch, Littleton, CO — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 14:53:40 GMT

ONLY an OBAMA Administration will slow the exportation of American jobs to India. It won't cease altogether, and people need to understand that (although we all know that people DON'T understand).

Republicans LOVE to outsource because they don't want anyone to have anything.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Dave's wife — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 14:54:04 GMT

Hubby said "If I were to be elected President of the U.S. the word "foreign aid" would cease until all children in our country had health care, food and clothing and a good education". PERIOD! He also went on to say that there would NOT be any outsourcing of American Jobs over seas. What goes on in America stays in America! PERIOD! Vote for Dave!~!

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Mike Brooks, Eugene, Oregon — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 14:56:08 GMT

If our representatives have any brains, this election will mean the end of outsourcing. Right now, consumer spending plummeting because, one consequence of the current economic mess, is outsourcing is increasing at an alarming rate, which is fueling even less consumer spending. I am pinning my hopes on the Democrats. Our representatives *CAN* enact punitive taxes on goods and services that are outsourced, Congress *CAN* bring back tariff's on goods and services to protect our jobs (and don't blather about "protectionism", every other civilized country on earth does precisely this right now), and Congress can end dangerous nonsense like the H1-B and L-1 visa. Those later two visas have cost 5 million American engineers and computer programmers their jobs with low paid, virtual indentured servants, from India, who are forced to work 60 to 80 hour work weeks with no overtime, no time off, inhumane working conditions, and a lack of access to medical services and other benefits that is flat out criminal. (At the same time, those same nearly all American companies, all of them "self-insured", access and correlate the medical records for their employees and families and terminate those with the greatest claim amounts. That nasty bit of wok is done in India at their data warehouses because it is beyond the reach/jurisdiction of U.S. laws.)

In recent days, India has sent out a variety of shell companies, doing software audits and other work, on the cheap. They take the results of these bogus studies and always manage to recommend outsourcing. This shameful and fraudulent practice is being funded in India and by U.S. companies that make their living off undermining this country, and destroying the lives of ordinary U.S. workers. So, spare us the sob stories abut an entire culture that owes it's existence to a parasitical relationship with American workers and this country. We have to end outsourcing. The H1-B and L-1 visas are the greatest threat to our national security EVER. All of this needs to be ended one way or another and very very soon.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Sick of outsourcing — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 15:01:04 GMT

It's time to cease outsourcing well paying American jobs producing high quality products and services and make them right here - in the US of A.

This is critical to restoring the dignity of American labor and the standard of living that has been grossly compromised over the last few years, thanks to the connivance between greedy American CEOs eyeing the bonanza of their golden handshakes and the politicians whose elections they have funded!!

Cut the crap...think America!!!

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Stop the Outsourcing!, Austin, TX — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 15:01:20 GMT

I have no sympathy for anyone in India who loses their job. I think we need to take care of the USA first. That's really a main reason for me supporting Barrack. BTW.. I am Indian by birth but the USA is the only home I've ever really known or could identify with. God Bless America!

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Dev — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 15:01:41 GMT

Obama's policy for curtailing job loss to third world countries is by giving and cutting tax benefits to companies which out source and those who don't. As Globalization is proven way to go forward, I am not sure how effective it will be when market dynamics comes in play. As far as MNC's will have more cost benefits as compared to Tax reliefs, outsourcing will still thrive.
India is under scrutiny as it is emerging as Back office for world and that is affecting directly middle class which comprises service sector. With incorporation of NAFTA, similar concerns were raised against Mexico for stealing manufacturing jobs. Similarly, manufacturing jobs lost to China are not even mentioned as everyone knows American products are too expensive to afford.
For all those people who lost their jobs due to outsourcing, I have sympathy, but if you move to any other countries I am damn sure you will find, if not better, than equally rewarding job.
You have qualities that that others lack and admire.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Paul Kauffman Sr. Cape Coral Fl. — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 15:02:29 GMT

My sympathy is here at home.If we are not built back up as a manufacturing leader,with the prosperity that goes with it, how are we going to pay for the service industries that are left?

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Rao, New Jersey — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 15:03:00 GMT

Lets stop the outsourcing jobs to india or indian company, who usually misuse the US immigration rules as well as the people working for them. See the banks who heavily outsourced the jobs to save costs and get more profilts got bankrup...so the outsourcing is not the solution...

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Alex, Dallas, TX — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 15:05:47 GMT

Good point. Let's stop sending work oversease. Let's stop selling products & services overseas. Let's stop investing in foreign markets. Let's stop buying diamonds, oil, and manufacturing goods from overseas. America is closed for business.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Max, Louisville KY — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 15:07:05 GMT

I think I am just echoing the sentiment of most of these posters that I'm not sure what the people of India are offering to this discussion. They are not voting or taxpaying participants in the U.S. economy, and if what's good for us is bad for them, I see that as a lopsided relationship and as international and cosmopolitan as I am I choose us when it comes to who our government's policies should be supporting. And the Indian government can figure out how to make the Indian economy sustainable without eating into the U.S. job market . . . or they can use their own democratic process to vote one in that will.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Ravi Kaushika, Dallas, TX — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 15:09:18 GMT

I am a naturalized US citizen from India - went through a masters, h1b, green card, naturalization, and minm security investigation for a fed contractor position. my job as a green card holder was on the line due to this india outsourcing and folks were bashing indian programmers brought by my company on the yahoo msg board of my company. some of the american fellow workers have accepted me in their circle to listen to their gripe about indians walking in the US office. mgmt was skirting the question as to whether indians were taking their jobs - they told the meeting (with no indian office employees in the meeting - I was there) that those indian office employees were a part of orgn without talking about the consequence of job losses.

american citizens need to understand that it is not indians who want to work to displace americans - it is the corporation's senior board members who want to displace average americans so they can get a fatter bonus.

today the jobs go to india, when india gets costlier, it will be israel, phillipines, even china ...

if the presidents stop worrying about what is good for the corporations and START WORRYING what is good for the average 'Joe the plumber' on the street, things will change. but i do not see it in the near future.

regards, Ravi.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Jim GH Ohio — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 15:13:50 GMT

All I can say is, unbelievable. By sacrifucing American citizens we have made a lot of other countries stronger as we have become weaker and weaker. I don't want to sound selfish but when has any other country come to our aid? We aren't all "Joe the Plumbers" and these call center jobs can help feed a lot of people in America. We get to hear about skilled laborers that will never be outsourced but we don't address the easy flight jobs of the big corporations. Call centers, IT support etc... have left this country in droves. In the mean time we talk about creating new jobs like the jobs that will become available when we start building wind farms and the like. Typical U.S. politics, put the buggy in front of the horse. Get rid of the jobs first then create new is like buiding up the urban areas and then widening the roads. It becomes a major inconvenience and ultimately costs us more money. 700 billion dollars to fix our economy, an economy that is broken due in most part to the housing crisis which is partially caused by people losing their jobs to outsourcing which also cuts into our tax revenue significantly.
Okay, this is turning into a rant and somebody just outsourced my soapbox.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Chris Carmichael, Tuscaloosa, AL — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 15:14:01 GMT

You have to remember that India is not considered a "friendly" country by the State Department. We barely have diplomatic relations. And it would be quite easy to pass legislation that denies many tax credits and government perks to any company who participates in outsourcing. Fair is fair.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Simon Spencer — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 15:14:17 GMT

...In my recent business related visit to India I had heard jocular yet harsh comments from my so called "friends".."We Indians will soon take over"..The words are easy, but actions are too complicated. It barely took 2 months to bring the economy to standstill in India because of the aftershocks in the US market.

When our own house is burning, and our survival is at stake, we the Americans can't afford a luxury of sending millions of jobs to places like India.
- Stop being altruistic to a point there is nothing left for our future generations
- Start conserving more and offer opportunities to retrain many among us who are the victims of broken economy and auto/construction industry fallout
- Offer so called customer services jobs instead of rerouting calls through India, coming with lack of quality service/professionalism
- Develop special areas in our own country offering tax incentives to bring back those "back office" jobs.

America's heartland 'll benefit and so does the nation as whole..

..Be proud to be American/

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Sri, DFW, TX — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 15:17:36 GMT

I hope we Indians need to understand, back office wont work all the time. If there is no sales, there will be layoff in back office.

Hence India should make changes to its laws in such a way not to depend on outsourcing from other countries and promote farming(to feed at least a billion humans), else get ready Indians for fast food world(with preservatives)

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Rick, Parker, CO — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 15:18:40 GMT

It's a world market, baby. Outsourcing will only stop when Americans are willing to work for the same wages as the Chinese or Indians.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Jillian, Dayton, OH — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 15:18:52 GMT

I am so sick and tired of all the stories about India and how their succeeding due to the US outsourcing! Those jobs should be our jobs! You wouldnt have to TRAIN us to speak proper English or TRAIN us to feel sympathy for our plight right now. But our government has let us down! They have decided that the rich should be richer because those are the people who fund their campaigns.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

KB, St. Paul, MN — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 15:19:33 GMT

I am an Indian citizen who works in the US. I am an Obama supporter because on the whole, his policies and outlook seem to be better, not just for US but also for the rest of the world. Charity begins at home. Although I love my motherland, India, its prosperity should not come at the expense of others. If India is 'rising', it should rise on its own. On its strengths. The free trade policy of US seems to be biting back. Policies should change to suit the times. I can't speak for the community, but I have observed that most educated Indians in America favor Obama. They can't stand the war-mongering far-right. Or Palin's incompetence.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Manly Congleton, winterville,NC — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 15:19:42 GMT

Why don't outsource the CEO jobs.That will save us a lot of money that will allow us to bring the rest of the jobs back to the USA.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Can you hear me now? USA — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 15:22:05 GMT

I am in IT with a big US telecommunications company (the one that advertises their 'big network')... The company has outsourced EVERY single IT job they could to India, and FIRED everyone else they were able to. And the people in India need constant supervision because their quality of work is so low. Then the company tried to steal pensions from workers who have worked their for 20, 25, 30 years to make their stock value look good. It infuriates me to see our country's wealth going to India when their are amazingly qualified individuals here who can do the work.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

PhoneJocky — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 15:24:11 GMT

I will probably lose my job to costa rica as almost all of our sales jobs and now customer service and soon my department will go over there.
Even though it's not India, the whole thing is a disgrace. All I have is callcenter experience. I'd lose my house and have to work at McDonalds.
I have no sympathy for India being worried. They need to rely on Indian companies to supply jobs, not the US. Even Neilson Media research in Safety Harbor FL BROUGHT Indians over HERE for less pay to live and work in their call center and they took jobs away from those who live in Safety Harbor. Even after Neilson got tax breaks from the city for bringing in jobs. Disgusting.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Rob — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 15:27:41 GMT

Inflation in India is keep raising and Forex $ rate being at 48 INR and increasing, outsourcing to India will continue.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Rick, NC — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 15:32:11 GMT

a company is free to employ who and where they want including India...what they aren't free to do is make us use their products or give them tax breaks to do it

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Jaye Lewis, Chilhowie Virginia — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 15:33:41 GMT

I hardly know what to say. Let me get this straight. Americans are jobless, the economy sucks, and 401K's are disappearing. Next, we give to India: American jobs, American nukes, and all our livelyhood. Now we should feel pity??? Unbelievable.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Jim Santos Haverstraw NY — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 15:38:30 GMT

What the hell are you talking about India??? Of course we are going to take care of our selves first, just like you would.Create your own economy and stop depending on the U.S.A.. WE NEED OUR JOBS BACK!!!

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

I.T. Valley - San Jose, CA. — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 15:40:09 GMT

Let's get real folks...
The jobs that are taken to India are jobs that could easily be done here, in the USA, by US citizens.
I personally try to buy "Made in the USA" when I see two of the same type of products and one is made in India /China and the other in the USA.
What are all these companies thinking?
They must think that they can take the jobs from the US and give them to India but how exactly do they think that American's will obtain the money to buy the goods created elsewhere? The jobs need to stay here, so the money can stay here. Granted you might pay more for goods and services BUT if you actually have a job and get a paycheck, then you can pay the difference.
It makes no sense to leave so many here in the US jobless and expect them to still prop up the economy.
By the way - Outsourcing doesn't even work. Many times, specifically in the I.T. sector - the work is sub-par and the money being spent is the same or more due to the many project failures - you see we are still the I.T. leaders of the world - we just need to focus and except the fact outsourcing was perhaps at one point in the 1990's a seemingly good money saving idea that just didn't pan out and ruined our economy... Wall Street (companies with stock - thought they could prop up their stock by cutting costs and shipping jobs elsewhere) now what - 401K's are falling and jobless rates are at their height - Oh yeah and the stock market got it's Karma.

What we need now is Change We Can Believe In.

Any thoughts on the Nuclear portion of this article?

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Jim again GH Ohio — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 15:40:33 GMT

We outsource manufacturing, we outsource IT, we outsource call center jobs etc.... Call center jobs are usually minumum wage jobs that are being sent to India, you mean to tell me that this is getting done for less than 7 bucks an hour outsourced?
How do we break a circle that goes like this, banks and corporations inflate the housing market pricing, banks and corporations outsource work that people do who own these houses, people without jobs can't pay their mortgage, forclosures happen in droves, corporations still make a fortune, the value of homes plummet to what should have been the actual value.....
We outsource to save money but we price product at a level only well paid citizens can afford. There are a lot of things you can buy at Walmart but in my area they don't sell houses or cars.
It's going to be really hard to purchase items, even at Walmart when you don't have a place to put them because you can't afford to keep a roof over your head.
I have been saying for the last five years that we will become the new third world country and 2008 has really pushed us more in that direction than any other year in this decade.
I really want to say God Bless America and I Love My Country but it is tough to have that relationship with all the infidelity.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Dave — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 15:41:37 GMT

Well its done by companies whose Executives get this to do for cheap and bring results every quarter and we invest in them heavely. Nothing wrong with the part of Indian workers.
We are responsible for it. STOP INVESTING IN COMPANIES THAT TAKE JOBS OUTSIDE THE COUNTRY BECAUSE ITS CHEAP

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Priya, New York, NY — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 15:42:10 GMT

Who doesn't want to make money? Who is not looking for opportunities? Instead of blaming the citizens of another country, may be people should start blaming the greedy corporations that outsourced the jobs. Don't blame the people who are ambitious.. Blame your own country's greediness..

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Art Mc Donald Gillette NJ — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 15:42:13 GMT

It is tough to sympathise with the Indian call centers who have gotten alot of the out-sourced jobs from U.S. companies. While alot of folks go wanting for jobs at home. While call centers are not the best paying jobs unless you are superior producer, we still need them. In India for instance a $25k job is very desirable and that goes alot further than here. But we need to think of home first especially with the economic climate as it is. Obama is the only one who seems to be speaking about this.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

T F - Phoenix — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 15:47:53 GMT

My former company just laid off 110 tech workers so they can offshore the jobs. I feel just terrible for those that are having a hard time finding new jobs. What is the sense of this? It won't really save money in the long run, it never does.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Robin Doty, Dixon, MO — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 15:48:12 GMT

When did we become isolationist, while I get frequently upset with this outsourcing I also see America is the land of dreams. We as a nation inspire others to seek a better life for themselves. Everything in life has its complications but we Americans have boundless opportunities other nations do not. IF we cut off open door abilities we are selling ourselves short. I myself can and will provide others with what I have found is a golden opportunity, home based business. Don't limit yourself or others, inspire with action, commit with solutions, and provide with intregrity in what you have so that others may realize a dream. Seek the Dream,

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

John, Washington, DC — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 15:48:30 GMT

Jobs will continue to be outsourced to India. We may be able to decrease the number of jobs that are outsourced, but it simply won't end. That's why I'm supporting Obama. He'll atleast try to decrease outsourcing even if it's by 2%. But McCain and the GOP? They'll ADD countries to the current "outsourcing network". I'm a dedicated Republican that realizes that a clean sweep of the GOP this fall is the only way to make this happen. A fresh start is what this country needs....

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

John Doe, Seattle, Wash — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 15:54:09 GMT

Everything needs moderation. Speed at which things are done matters.
Jobs go to other countries, They buy American goodies and product made my USA companies and the money of finished product comes back.

Indians (or others) buy Microsoft software, Intel or AMD PC (no one else makes them in the world)

Growth of US companies is outside USA, as here every household got PC , a cell phone.

Many of these US companies don't pay enough Tax neither here nor there.

It is the law of capitalism and entropy - people will buy the cheapest stuff.

With outsourcing a shirt in walmart costs $ 10, with current salaries can middle class buy $ 50 shirt from 5 saks avenue ?

if outsourcing is put on hard -brake, executives at 5 Saks ave would mint $, while middle class lose their shirt.

What is needed is normalization of salary. Distribute the salary of executive theifs to middle class.

In order to compete with other nations , study hard and dont waste years hanging out. Study the subjects which are in demand not some theorotical subject. It does not get goood paying job anywhere in world

Many hi-tech companies claim that they don't get enough knowledgeable workers locally because people here are stuck with mainframe programming skills , when the demand is to make applications for iPhones (alike)
In todays knowledge economy one needs to update their skills every year, else no way one could survive.

10-15 year down the line Indians may get their own Microsoft/Intel and may not even buy from them.

and US companies would loose billions of customers

One should compete in the changing world - thats the american spirit , not ask for "help".

Govt should spent money to help people compete, cheaper and right education, not creating walls.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

bayravin — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 15:54:23 GMT

The companies that outsource should be taxed. The inequities would be balanced. The H1B should be closed. Indian businesses are getting a free ride from this. If things do not change, there is no incentive for an American to spend time and money going thru college and then see his job outsourced to India. Unfair. Keep American jobs in America.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Kris, Seattle, WA — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 15:54:42 GMT

Let's be clear, everyone has their own selfish concerns at the top of the list. We all want the benefits of the free market and free trade without the disadvantages, and that isn't going to happen. Sending jobs to India made sense in an inflating economy. Keeping jobs in the US makes sense in a deflating economy - but it isn't easy (if at all possible) to suddenly switch directions. Let's stop complaining about India and understand that we're currently facing the consequences of our own decisions as a country and society.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Liam, North Dakota — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 15:55:09 GMT

Isn't it interesting that India for centuries had only the ultra-rich and dirt poor, but now with all the outsourced work they have a developing and growing middle class?
And isn't it interesting that all the jobs being outsourced are middle-class jobs, such as customer service, industrial manufacturing, and technical trades.
I've also noticed that more and more people in the US are losing their jobs and homes and becoming very, very poor while others seem to be getting benefits from lavish CEO salaries, reduced corporate and capital gains taxes, and loopholes to reduce taxes that get bigger the more money you have.

Am I the only one noticing that the US is exchanging our socio-economic makeup for India's?

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

sekhar — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 16:01:59 GMT

The concept of "free trade" means any job (manufacturing, software, or other jobs) can be sent anywere in the world. One can imagine that this can only result in lowering the standard of living in one country (e.g USA), while raising the standard in another (eg. India, or China). But does free trade benefit every country by increased volume? This is the theory, but I do not know if this is proven....
No country is actually practising free trade! China has artificially kept its currency low, anmd accepted poor working comditions and environmental standards. India does not manipulate its currency, but does not allow free access to all of its markets. The US and Europe protect their farmers with costly subsidies.
On the other hand , economic growth in countries like India helps the US by creating a large demand for US products, such as planes, and nuclear plants(a 250 billion dollar market). Similarly, if we can become the world's No.1 producer and innovator of green energy and green transportation, all of these countries will be our markets, as proposed by Obama.
How can we reconcile these conflicting advantages and disadvantages of free trade?
Can we pass legislation that states that no country should have a trade deficit of more than 20% for any goods or services which are able to be produced in the USA? This will have a major impact on China(Korea, and japan as well), but not India which has a healthy trade balance with us. We have to keep in mind however that we are heavy debtors to China, which can manipulate politics in our country by impled and real threats....
We need to find creative solutions which benfit us (Americans) and others in the world as well....

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Decided, Long Beach, CA. — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 16:07:33 GMT

Outsourcing does not produce for the middle class consumer a porportionate savings as compared to the profits gained by the Big Corporations. How does it trickle down if there are no employees of the respective corporation in America? So why would a middle class American support a candidate that wishes to further "globalize" middle class American jobs and qaulity of life?
There has to be some type of subliminal message eminating from those negative GOP campaign adds?

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Texas Longhorn — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 16:07:44 GMT

Halliburton outsourced my and about 100 of my co-workers professional jobs while they were raking in billions from Iraq un-bid defence contracts. What a Great American Company!

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Raj — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 16:09:33 GMT

I am a GC holder from India and I undersatnd anger about it.Unfortuantely, its American Corporate Greed which is killing Americans.During cold war era Russian Kruschave said lets bury Americans but with the current crisis and future outsourcing trends American will bury Americans forever.Corporates get lot of tax breaks for cost reduction etc. and for the last 8 years all companies are cash rich but not hiring anyone in US but outside e.g. IBM keeps hiring in India and keep laying off in US(last year 10,000 jobs creatd in India but more than double get downsized in US by IBM). Rich wants to deplete and finish middle class of USA. There will be only Rich and Poor like USSR was before bolshevik revolution.Unfortuantely, I don't see American protesting and fighting.I found that was the greatest thing of US -- to fight and win.But I found Americans are badly scared of all Rich elite. India is still a developing nation and started shouting big without understanding the pain on the other side.Hope things will change and good and haigh paying jobs will remain in USA.People have to fight.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Manny D, Chicago — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 16:09:59 GMT

GREED is the number one recipe to our down fall! It starts with the CEO's wanting to outsource our jobs overseas to generate more profit so that they can have fat bonus and take home millions of dollars. Also, we need to understand that these MORONS are the products of consumer GREED. As investor, we keep demanding bigger profit AND we refuse to pay for quality service! It doesn't work! We can't have it both ways. We need BALANCE. We cannot isolate ourselves from the rest of the countries. But we americans must also protect our interest. Like how we conduct our business outside our household. Our family first and the country. That's all I have to say. We need to find BALANCE.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

L bogue, Cherry Valley, il. — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 16:11:11 GMT

It takes policy changes in D.C. for any reversal in (Free Trade) and that's not going to happen. Our manufacturing industry has left because of self inposed tax reasons. The only way now to get some industries to return is to keep gas and oil high enough to make transport to expensive, and policy change.
I don't see and change for the better coming! Where is the outrage over this Bailout! (ENRON), Fannie May, Freddy Mac! What is the differance?
In Japan or China CEO's do not receive billions of dollars for taking a company down, and our fellow Americans with them!

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

RM, Atlanta, GA — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 16:13:58 GMT

I cant believe how hypocritical some of these comments are and how some of you have a ridiculously blind fatih about Obama being the solution to all the problems that we have. Most of you here dont even know the economics of outsourcing. The whole outsourcing pie including backoffice and IT jobs is probably less than 10%. The majority of the job losses are in the manufacturing sector where the jobs go to China. Reasons corporations go out of the country is obviously to save money. I am a small business owner and would give you an example: Four years ago we used to spend about $80,000 per year for 2 qualified accounting professionals and that cost does not include the benefits, HR cost, time and effort of managing. Now I get twice the work done and with less management at about 30,000 per year. Because of the money saved I was able to invest in other field of my business, expand it and hire more than 8 people here in US.

Now dont get me wrong, I like to keep every thing in my office and infront of my eyes but I dont want to be a stupid businessman and loose to my competetion. If small business can get tax cuts and lower the cost of benefits some backoffice jobs will be kept right here. But I think the government and we the people should concentrate on education of our young kids so that there will be less dropouts and more graduates creating more workforce and hence reducing the salaries.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

LP — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 16:14:56 GMT

Before Americans blame Indian back office workers or Chinese manufacturing job workers for 'taking' their jobs perhaps it would be better to direct their anger at their greedy executives who essentially are the ones making money out of this. No one is outsourcing jobs to countries like Mexico, China, Israel, India, Phillipines or any other developing country based on the goodness of their heart or altrustic reasons to help the people of these countries. It is basic greed, plain and simple. And while the middle class citizens of USA get decimated a few of the executive class get rich. And yes, I am going to say it at the cost of being called a racist, because this is true too. Before you go blaming the black, yellow and brown colored people of this world for stealing your jobs, may be you could blame the mostly white executives who are responsible for outsourcing and the politicians of either party for facilitating it.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

John Doe, Seattle, Wash — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 16:17:17 GMT

Giving Nuclear free hand to a country that refuses to sign the NPT..hmmm,that would make the world a safe place. Oh, they are not terrorists, I guess.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

David, Des Moines, IA — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 16:17:30 GMT

It's a global economy, folks. Get used to it. We don't just play in our own little sandbox any more. Improvements in communication and transportation are big drivers. We need to partner with other countries. Trying to block them out is like plugging holes in the dam with your fingers.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

N Kumar — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 16:19:06 GMT

I had read most of the messages related to saying "No outsourcing". I am an Indian staying in US, finished my Masters in the States and currently working for a big organization in here. As Salomi Abbas said in her message, studying in India is not just easy or FREE. It takes its own effort for one to shine in his/her life. I know many of my American colleagues who have their Masters and are very knowledgeable, who make more money than an immigrant working in the same position. Everyone, either American or Indian get opportunity to choose their lives.

Outsourcing - Lets think about the basic problem of goods made in China and call centers in India - COST!!!! If American industry can make / deliver the same quality of product / services, there is no need for outsourcing.

I am not a supporter of India nor America....but Just facts.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

N Kumar — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 16:20:51 GMT

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Thunderhanded — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 16:21:39 GMT

Judging by the comments, it appears most people don't understand that we've demanded outsourcing through our own purchasing patterns. We have a high material standard of living in the US in large part because companies have outsourced production and other functions in order to make themselves more competitive to US consumers. If the jobs were to somehow, across the board, be "brought back" to the US, then we in the US would have to either 1) pay two or three times as much for the end products or else 2) work for the low wages of India, China, etc to keep end prices the same. Either course produces the identical outcome: American purchasing power evaporates and everybody realizes we're materially poor.

Outsourcing is just one more way that America manages to temporarily live outside its means. Deficit spending, unfunded tax cuts, a frenzy of real estate speculation, and a one-time-only, 25-year glut cheap oil are a few others. One way or another, we're going to face a day of reckoning for all of this that will force us to live within our means as a country and as citizens. Good luck to everybody with all of that.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

CTM, Miami — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 16:22:37 GMT

I agree that outsourcing is a cause for concern, not so much because jobs have left for India (or anywhere else), but because retraining and job re-placement efforts have not been implemented here in the US adequately. Sure, call centers have sprung up in India, but Air India buys 777's built in Seattle, etc., in a circulating global economy. The notion that we are going to keep every American job in America for all time just doesn't hold water. We need to adapt to the fact that some jobs are going to leave and never come back. We adapt by having real retraining and re-placement processes and financial assistance to workers and their families being put into new jobs in new industries. But we cannot -- CANNOT -- just send jobs out and say "sorry, you're on your own." If a U.S. company wants to outsource jobs, fine, let them, but we must insist (through legislation and lawsuits, if need be) that every worker they displace is given substantial assistance to find a new job.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

LS, Boulder, CO — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 16:23:07 GMT

I contacted a call center a few days ago, regarding the warranty on my American vehicle. (ironic) It was an Indian call center. The ACD switch was an infinite loop of recordings, until I hit 0 and actually got an agent, who started reading off her script. I had to repeat my very simple request 3 times, because I guess it wasn't on the script. I still don't think she got it.

Yesterday, another Indian call center contacted me for a satisfaction survey on the previous call. It was all I could do not to say, "y'know, an unemployed auto worker in Detroit would have handled my call efficiently and on the first try, and would be grateful for the work."

I let them know what I thought of their 'customer service'... as politely as I could.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Mike Brooks, Eugene, Oregon — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 16:24:05 GMT

Ravi Kaushika - I am delighted by your post! There are a lot of people, all them that stand to gain from outsourcing and guest workers, that blather about racism being the reason we oppose these practices. That is not the case. American's of Asia ancestory are harmed as much by those activities as every other American worker. Likewise, as I pointed out in my earlier post, those Indian (and, sometimes, CHinese and other workers) quest workers are treated like slaves here. They are forced to work inhumane hours with no overtime under horrific circumstances and, if they get sick from all of that mistreatment, they are shipped back home. The H1-B visa is simply barbaric and the L-1 visa is even worse (where 10 and 20 Indian naionals are literally stuffed into a one or two bedroom apartment and treated like garbage). Congress, end those programs! If we actually need foreign expertise in some area, and that is going be RARELY, then give them a Green Card and treat them with some human dignity!

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Kevin, Spokane, WA — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 16:24:42 GMT

I think its very unrealistic for people to pin their hopes of economic recovery on one candidate or the other, and expect the economy to be improved upon in a four year cycle of any one president.

The problems that have been created by moving jobs overseas and the 700 billion dollars, that we now "have" to spend, are not just problems that just "suddenly happened". The signs were simply ignored.

After its all said and done and we are lied to yet again about a supposed "new" direction we as a country are going to go, the policies of old will still be in place.

Americans can't "drill our way" out of an outsourced service based economy. Any new direction will be a farce so long as overseas priorities take place over any domestic policy. Any domestic policy that can repair and eliminate the ailments within the United States.

Lets also be realistic also about how long any recovery is going to take. Even if measures are taken to stem the tide of outsourceing employment, and the economy becomes centered on manufacturing by Americans for Americans, be it for our own energy needs, or goods for purchase. It will take over two decades after redesigning our economy for any positive benefits to fully mature.

Face it eden isn't just burning, its burnt. And we've done this to ourselves.

Its more than time to fix our own problems. Problems created by Americans for Americans.

The solution will have to be an American one.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Alan, Lynn, MA — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 16:29:46 GMT

Here is what stupid companies forgot that moved jobs to india and china. When no one in the USA can buy their cheap lousy products and they are making no money because nothing is selling they will finally learn when the CEO's are unemployed too. Our Goverment has to stop the outsourcing of jobs and make companies here in the USA keep them here or they will be taxed at a higher rate. NAFTA has ruined this country like I said if the stock market dkepps dropping then even Warren buffet will be poor. This economy has been losing ground since the 1970's and its finally comming home to roost.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Pat Brown, River Grove, IL — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 16:31:45 GMT

The reason these jobs are outsourced is greed on the part of management. It is not that it won't be profitable to keep the jobs here, it is that it won't be profitable enought to pay themselves the huge salaries and bonuses they currently receive. So if we limit these companies from outsourcing, I think they will still stay in business. Some managers may leave, but then one has to ask where will they go if all companies are under the same rulebook? The service sector also has to start organizing more so they can gain the type of benefits that our unions were able to achieve for the manufacturing sector.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Father of eight — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 16:33:22 GMT

I guess when americans (in goverment) don't care about america then why any on else will. As long as we have lobbiest in washington. We will lose jobs, money by exporting wealth and importing poverty.

The question is what can we do, if a good person want to get in politics "WE THE PEOPLE" never never ever votes for him, later blames THE ONEs we choosed. Dont we deserve these crisis ?

Cut all outsourcing or tax it on fair basis for american workers to compete with rest of the world.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

ScottBaggins — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 16:38:37 GMT

It sounds like a great idea but will raise prices. Outsourcing makes either more jobs and higher prices or less jobs and lower prices.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

GG, Tampa Florida — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 16:39:16 GMT

Yes, outsourcing has cost America more than the politicians and corporate executives will ever realize. The sad thing is that, like the company I work for, there are LAYERS upon LAYERS upon LAYERS of "Senior" management and executives who are making the REALLY BIG bucks. The vast majority of virtually every single company in America's employee base are the people who DO NOT make the REALLY BIG bucks, but are the first to be outsourced.

The Republican party is known as the GOP. This stands for the "Grand Ole Party". This is the Good-Ole-Boy network in action, where every single family member, close friend or paper-boy from down the street are given positions of power simply through association, rather than actually being able to perform the job function.

This is what is causing the rampant product cost run-up, not the saleries of the next round of "right-sized" employees. Corporate greed has been extended to the next senior-level person to be hired, along with 200 of their closest whatevers.

My company has reached a 3-to-1 ratio of senior executives-to-grunts. For every 5 people my company "right-sizes", they hire one new senior level to do god only knows what, because they ARE NOT helping me with MY continually increasing work-load, but only seem to give me more to do. While threatening to outsource me if I complain...

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

MM — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 16:39:32 GMT

Do you want jobs to go to India, or soldiers? Do you want foreign countries to work for their income, or starve and beg for humanitarian aid? At one point the US was a little foreign nation at big risk and was in the position to borrow money from a foreign government. Thank you France. If India is an american Ally in the EAST and their Wealth proliferates, you might see exports of GOODS increase and more INDIAN TOURISTS spending their money here. Exports are the real reason for downturn in jobs, do some research. The population is what has grown, and we are hungry for cheap imports. For the ONE job that we lose hear what like 20 people can get hired overseas? What if we could get those 20 people to buy our exported goods? When India has its comeuppance, and there is an end to starvation and child labor, there will be remittance to the US in a big way.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

J Rogers New York — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 16:43:37 GMT

This really ticks me off! I am furious that with the state of our economy, someone from India could make such a statement. This is why "we" the USA have to find the commonalities between us. United WE STAND, DIVIDED WE FALL!!

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Latham, Glenside, PA — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 16:43:59 GMT

The simple fact is that burdens placed on corporate America such has the Second highest corporate tax rates in the world behind only Japan. This has necessitated savings wherever possible. If corporate taxes rates are increased the result will not be the outsourcing of valuable back office jobs to foreign countries, the entire corporations will move offshore and simple sell their products back into the US. The only problem with that is that we will have no money to send on these products. We have gotten to reliant on the Federal Government insisting that they protect us against outside competition, however this protect is exactly what is costing us our jobs.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Phil Beavers, Farmington, NM — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 16:44:05 GMT

I expect the Obama administration, responding to pressure from Congressional Democrats, will institute protectionist trade and labor policies which will have the same effect as the Smoot-Hawley tariffs of the thirties. That is to say the economy will go into free-fall.
Unionists and people who work, or worked, for industries which cannot compete in the world economy will be reassured by the democrats that they don't have to. They will be told that the government can see to it that all America drives Edsels and we'll have our own fireworks factories in every American county.
Insisting that Canada and Mexico must have their labor and environmental laws made by the U S Congress will have the effect of abrogating NAFTA, and regulations at the ports in the name of safety and fairness will block Chinese imports. The resulting trade war and inflation will be intolerable to American business. As a result, those industries which are now outsourcing jobs will simply outsource themselves. After all, nothing prevents them from moving their corporate offices as well as their plants to a country where capitalism prevails.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Irene Alhambra, CA — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 16:44:37 GMT

KEEP JOBS IN THE USA....AND COMPANIES THAT DON'T SHOULD BE TAXED HIGHER THAN THOSE THAT ARE CREATING JOBS FOR OUR UNEMPLOYED!

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Don Stockstill Ozark, Missouri — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 16:44:39 GMT

Outsourcing of jobs has indeed becone a problem. One wonders how a company such as AT&T can outsource its jobs, for example customer service to other countries when virtally all of its customers are in the USA.Americans could easily do the jobs here but AT&T and others outsource to make money at the expense of their customers while paying their outsource labor in India, Pakistan, China, Mexico and elsewhere starvation wages. I formerly worked in a manufacturing concern which moved to Mexico. A friend of mine saw two of the same product,one made here and one in Mexico. The prices were the same. We were told that (1) the move to Mexico was to be more competitive and (2) the finished products would be shipped to the United States for sale, of course. I guess that they weren't making enough money doing the work here. Very few of the Mexicanos could afford to buy them but as a staff member for my Congressman, told me, we don't care about the Mexicans. For the record my Congressman is Rep. Roy Blunt(R)Missouri who has very active in his efforts of late to bail out Wall Streert and the huge investment bankers. Of course it is his interest to do so to keep the campaign contributions flowing to himself so that he can continue to work over the American worker.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

N Kumar, Detroit MI — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 16:45:55 GMT

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

J. Anderson, Blacksburg VA — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 16:45:56 GMT

Wouldn't it be great if the USA could be a true super power by being able to stand alone and not depend on any other country's for their products or work force. Then it would be our choice if we want outside products.

I know dumb idea. Put it would be great to be an independent super power instead of a country with great wealth and talent that everyone makes fun of.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

anthony, delran nj — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 16:47:03 GMT

It's a shame that our "outsourcing" has created so much instability caused by corporate greed. Our workers have actually trained their replacements. Now, our replacements sound like we're somehow responsible for their unemployment. It's going to happen if as a society, you produce nothing except cheap labor. Thanks NAFTA!!! Remember Ross Perot? People thought he was crazy, but it's all coming to pass.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

mfaber, Sacramento California — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 16:47:48 GMT

Stop sending US jobs overseas! Tax the top 5% and spread the wealth around by giving chump change to the other 95%, Health care as a right not a responsiblity! Withdraw troops from unpopular wars regardless of the consequences! All of these things sound great to shortsighted, one step only thinking people that don't understand consequences of actions. Obama is betting that is the majority of the electorate and the polls and comments on this page are bearing that out.
Outsourcing enables US companies to provide products cheaper to the consumer. The consumer then has more money to buy other products [thus giving the consumer a raise] the people of India or whereever also have more money to buy luxury goods [typically US exports] which provide more jobs to American workers. All economists understand that Free Trade makes everyone wealthier. Politically, however, the people who lose their jobs know who they are, and the winners don't. That is why pandering politicians use rhetoric like on these comment pages.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

kmccall houston — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 16:48:47 GMT

Its funny to hear all the people just now recognizing the problem with all the outsourcing. I have been in the pipe trades unions for years and we have always preached "BUY AMERICAN" anything you can, but no, all you people bitching are the same ones that have been buying foreign cars but put your american flag sticker on it?!! Effing pathetic! Chinese crap from Walmart, anything to save a buck, and now that its hitting home you decide to pull your heads out! Nike was one of the first, did anybody care? NO, they pay athletes millions and make their labor work in 1$ a day sweatshops, welcome to the country you created...

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Ashu, Washington DC, DC — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 16:59:10 GMT

Hmmmmm other than a few comments all echoed the same opinion outsourcing should not be allowed. well my dear Americans it is a global economy and the only way u can bring back jobs is by competing with indians and chinese workers. Dont whine about your lost job if you are not willing to do better than your competitors.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

John Doe — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 17:01:47 GMT

If a company outsources because it must do so in order to compete, perhaps that company ought to move it's headquarters away from the US, pay higher tarrifs, and be subject to normal restrictions we place upon foreign entities. They no longer deserve to be called American. Civic minded people need to remember their own nation first. If they cannot live within our economy, they ought to leave.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Joe The Plumber — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 17:09:09 GMT

None of these candidates can stop the outsourcing. This will happen, and this is the reality. Things need to be worked out is bringing down higher education expenses, making us competitive, so that we can compete in this global economy.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

The Big E, Central, NJ — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 17:09:11 GMT

This has been a growing problem since 2000. Companies are using the H1 Visas and outsourcing to reduce costs. The issue is it is eliminating jobs for American citizens and even worse transferring the knowledge out of the USA. Companies have decided to use the H1 Visas to save a few cents per share on income but in actuality they are mortgaging the US.
The following Business Week article gives an interesting insight:
http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/08_11/b4075062465238.htm?campaign_id=yhoo

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Joe Y — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 17:12:10 GMT

Can someone send these posting to our candidates. The time has come for them to understand, WE the people of this country vote them in to office. Not the citizens of other nations. If they want the job of Presidency or ever Congress, they need to stop sending our jobs overseas and halt the importing of cheap labor (H1B program)

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Texas Gal, San Antonio, Tx — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 17:19:09 GMT

Let me make sure I've got this straight: India has grown economically by taking jobs from Americans, now they're worried because some of those jobs might be coming back to America????

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Steven Roach — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 17:23:29 GMT

Bring the jobs back here

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Jerry,Denver,CO — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 17:26:08 GMT

I feel bad for the people of India who will get screwed by it, but we're going to have to stop outsourcing jobs and return those jobs to the American people. They should be wary of Obama, he's going to do whatever it takes to help out our economy, even if that means passing new legislation to prohibit outsourcing. American companies will learn one way or another, that you cannot cut corners if it harms America and the American people. It's unpatriotic, as are many other aspects of capitalism.

OBAMA/BIDEN '08

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

anita, st louis, mo — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 17:28:52 GMT

where were you guys when millions and millions of manufacturing jobs were lost to china? even our American flag is "made in china". it is sad to see that no one cared then. we should not blame other countries for our plight. it is our rich corporations that are to be blamed. and please do not forget the two wars that we are fighting. thanks to bush and cheney, iraq is bleeding our country dry. wake up america, vote for obama....

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

DHart, Tallahassee, FL — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 17:31:00 GMT

I've spent the last 2 years in Bangalore India. Trying to make an IT outsourcing project work - in order to keep my job. The hype you hear about how great India is - is a joke. Outsourcing with them is extremely difficult and not the money saver you're lead to believe. My project will get pulled back to the US once quality of our product and service is completely shot.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Linda — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 17:31:36 GMT

Bi Pity here nothing.
Clinton began the free trade which started this.
We will have more under Obama don't believe what he says.
The service from this country has been very poor and the companies that have outsourced are beginning to bring some of the jobs back. The american companies find it is cheaper to outsource then to upgrade and at the same time pay the american worker who wants far more then the Indian people do.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Susan, Chicago, IL — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 17:38:34 GMT

Companies will respond to public pressure if enough of it is applied. I have started sending out notices to companies that I am a customer of if I call customer service and get someone in India or elsewhere.
Some companies have started to move those services back to the US due to public pressure. If enough consumers tell companies that we will not buy their products or services because of this, they will feel the economic pressure to come back.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

George Bohm, Palo Alto, CA — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 17:48:36 GMT

I suggest we don't get ticked off at the Indian (or Chinese, Israeli, Russian, whatever) programmers and call-center workers. They don't make the decision to take your jobs. Your bosses at the corner office, and in Wall Street, and in the Govt., do. Direct your ire at them.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

jonathanw — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 17:50:25 GMT

Outsourcing would not be affected because it is driven by the market for the products of the companies. It is cheaper to get it done where it is sold. It was stupid of Bush to give a huge tax cut for the richest assuming they would use that create jobs locally. The reality is they don't care about the tax cuts because that is not the major deciding factor on where they chose to hire people.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Cathie, USA — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 17:53:01 GMT

We go to war with a country because they supposedly have weapons of mass distruction, but we lift the ban on the sale of nuclear materials to India? Makes no sense! The "powers that be" has knowledge that the economy is on a downturn and so they send American jobs to China and India? Again, makes no sense.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

KR, Boston, MA — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 17:53:12 GMT

It is not by India's own doing that jobs are being outsourced to that country. Stop blaming the country and its citizens. This is Greed and Capitalism at its best. When CEOs want to save every single buck for their own greed, this is exactly what will happen; ship the jobs to cheaper places. Somebody commented about India not being a "friendly" country to the state department. I want to tell you that these are times of dynamic politics, the old style friends and foes don't hold much. Economy drives everything. I don't think alienating with India is good for America in the long run for strategic reasons.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Ronn Hokenstad, Bullhead City, Arizona — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 17:53:43 GMT

American Corporations who out source jobs are not only
run by greed but have no patriotic values to AMERICAN society!! When AMERICANS work, they also pay taxes. Any AMERICAN company who outsources to any foriegn country should have to pay our state and federal governments the taxes that they will not get!

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Obamavoter,Hartford, CT — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 17:56:29 GMT

This is another one of the many reasons that i support a President Obama. I have lost two jobs working helpdesk, one in india and another in Canada. after graduating in the IT field and my high student loans, i needed a job to pay it off. Most It jobs won't take you without some experience so i took the first couple of jobs to gain some valuable experience. They were both snatched away from myself and the other employees because of Greed. All of this during the Bush administration and congress run by republicans. Truth is, I'm not a republican or Democrat but I do know where my vote is going.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

dany, a,Pennsylvania — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 18:10:42 GMT

Free Trade was introduced by us around world to exploit economic conditions of developing world. Its not easy to turn your back onto it when we find it tough to maintain easy money flow. We got learn to leave within means without getting greedy. We got to learn from Japan. Strong $ doesn’t help US keep jobs within. Imports should become expensive and exports should become cheaper only then we can compete with free world and free trade.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Hemadri — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 18:12:18 GMT

Economics, at grass roots level, is like give and take. You give some proserity to India and China and take some for yourself. See how many cell phones, Nike shoes, branded goods etc., are sold in these countries bringing the profits back to USA.

What our politicians need to make sure is that these profits stay in US and work for US.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Fri, 17 Oct 2008 18:14:06 GMT

I grew up in India and came to US almost ten years ago on an IT job. Before I came to US, it was not very easy to get into a good IT firm, when there is so much competition. I live in expensive California, still rent, and work in the weekends, and still do not have a green card. I have not seen any American willing to work in the weekends when there is a need. In the earlier part of my career, I had to slog 12 hours or more a day. And, most of us coming from India can work on almost all technologies, if there is some new technology to work on, we learn by reading a book or online in a week and get started. I live a middle class life with my wife and daughter of four. I do not see myself any different from other Americans. While there are few of my colleagues who got lucky (but some are extremelyintelligent) and live in expensive homes, but the vast majority of us are regular middle class no different than our American friends here. I also saw some go back due to various reasons - only two out of six of us who came on a project stayed here in US. Plus, most of us still do not have a green card, still on a VISA. Do you now how frustrating it is to live in a country for ten years and still be on a VISA, travelling in and out of the country is always a hassle, keep all those documents and be prepared to answer all kinds of questions by the immigration officers - nothing against them, they are doing their job. I do not want to see these things as complaints but rather life's realities. I am glad I came to this country of opportunity, I lead a happy and peaceful life. And, I have
learnt a lot about life from my American friends. Regarding the question of outsourcing, there has to be a balance - it should not happen at the cost of Americans going jobless. In a bad economy, the idea of outsourcing looks ridiculous to most of us, but globalization has worked to boom economies not just in India or China but also in USA. I am hoping the economy will recover sooner than later, and the people who have lost jobs can find work again. The issue I believe lies in the collective greed, we see it at all levels - the corporate world has a lot of people who are too greedy to see their actions as right or wrong, but we also have people in the middle class who saw an opportunity to make "a lot of money" by buying a home they could not afford in hopes of selling them in a few years for a hefty profit. People have to understand that to generate wealth (not that it is wrong to generate wealth), you need to work hard and use your creativity that can benefit all. When people were flipping properties, they were really handing over the "time bomb" which they also knew will go off, but just don't know when. This is really bad on their part that they know they made the money but know that there is someone who is going to pay for it! Regarding India on losing jobs, it has a good economy and domestic market, India will solve its own problems. If I were a US citizen, the only one thing from rest of the world that would concern me is how the rest of the world looks at this great country. I do not want them to see us as bullies or warmongers but as responsible world citizens that are prepared to do the right thing. We have too much military power to side with some countries while calling the rest axis of evil. This country should be a leader respected for its values. I am Muslim and believe if there has to be justice and fairness in this world, it has to start here, no other country in the world today has this power or opportunity to change.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Just asking — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 18:14:35 GMT

I am an Indian who studied in the US but am back in India right now. I just wanted to ask,
How come India is the center of all your criticism when outsourcing of manufacturing jobs to china is much more widespread and started much earlier than outsourcing of IT jobs to India? Everything you can buy in the US is made in china or taiwan. Is that not outsourcing?
When globalization was being promoted, third world nations like india were viewed as markets for consuming american products. Would that not have caused job losses in the third world countries?

What about all the foreign direct investment that flowed into south-east asian countries when they opened up their economies because of globalization. All that money caused speculation and a bubble. When the money was quickly withdrawn at the first sign of trouble it contribted to the huge 1997 asian financial crisis. Didnt people in these asian countries lose their jobs and savings because of the collapse?
It is not fair not to look at te effects of globalization on the developing countries. I think the world is still trying to figure out how to get globalization right. Eventually everyone will benefit from it.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

George Bohm, Palo Alto, CA — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 18:17:13 GMT

A "great" CEO once said - Americans have no god-given right to a job anymore.
Who was that? Carly Fiorina - who flamed out of Lucent and HP, and was (is) on John McCain's economic team.
Still mad at Indians for taking your jobs?

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

joe the plumbers brother — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 18:18:47 GMT

humm let me think it's election time right? and it's congress that makes the laws right? well out source them this November and let the ones taking their place that we are watching and they got 4 yers to fix it or their gone too!

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

MS, Detroit, MI — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 18:19:05 GMT

Well, the topic is India. However is outsorcing the only reason why American economy is this bad? Obviously not. How much money is being spent in Iraq every day? Where does it come from? How many Americans whole heartedly supported Bush in going for that war and spending that money? And then the sub-prime mortgage. Who is responsible for all this? And then the class of citizens growing up with everything they can afford with only fun and enjoying the life. Like Obama said in the presdential debate; let the parents be responsible for cutting down TV and video games. The education and health care are two areas that need drastic changes. There are so many social reforms that are needed to take this country back in its track.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Harry, NY NY — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 18:22:44 GMT

Offshore outsourcing. You get what you pay for. You pay a third the price, you get a third the quality.

If you have any doubts about the quality see the list of toxic food/hygeine products from China. Having worked for a large US based publishing company that dealth with "MindTree" in India: you get what you pay for. You pay a third the price, you get a product of a third the quality. It might be enticing for the CEO's and VPs to offshore outsource, but for those who have to interact with the offshore staff and implement what they produce, its a doubling of effort. Quality wasn't there, never talk to the same person twice, and never a full understanding of what the product should have been.

We are in this situation in part from Robert Rubin's vision of a global economy and we have to reclaim it.

Term limits for the Congress and Senate. India was never a great friend of the US. See what side it picked during the cold war, and even more recently the non confidence vote the nuclear deal with the US inspired.

Why send them parts of our economy? We need to elect people who "worry about our own" first. A call center could easily be built in Detroit, MI. Anywhere where the cost of living is lower. Offshore outsourcing means loss of control and quality of the product you are trying to produce.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Muthu — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 18:25:21 GMT

It is Simple, rather than blaming India or India citizens.Blame your Politician's and CEO's.if US is talking about "Jobs" what about then oil dependent on other countires.. let US Produce thier own oil. dont import oil.

It is the same logic, if the companies in US want to sustain they have to outsource the jobs.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Ricky — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 18:25:33 GMT

It is not in the hands of politicians but in the hands of CEO's ( and in turn in the hands of share /sotck holders ) .If you are aginst outsourcing donot buy stocks in those companies that do outsourcing ( it may be DELL / IBM) ; this is what simply one has to do.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

LAW, Louisville, KY — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 18:28:39 GMT

All I can say is that being in the medical transcription industry, many of our jobs have been off shored, resulting in less jobs and less pay here, not to mention the lack of privacy for patients here in teh U.S. as many times SSN's, addresses, etc, are contained in these medical reports. As our privacy polices for medical records are not enforceble when this work is sent overseas, much personal/sensitive information on U.S. Citizens is being sent out of the country, this includes medical information on some of our military personnel. To me, this is totally unacceptable.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Angela, Tampa, Florida — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 18:31:21 GMT

Everyone in my industry is shutting down due to outsourcing. It is a huge problem and is contributing to our economic downturn. It is unjust that they have a lower cost of living in India, so they can compete at rates that we in the US can not compete with. Please vote for Obama! Like Bush, McCain wants to keep giving Bush's tax cuts to the rich and hoping it will trickle down to us and he is in favor of outsourcing. How has that been working out so far? Bring jobs back to America and fuel the economy with more tax cuts in favor of the middle class and small businesses. It is time to tip the scales back in our favor. In 1928, before the great depression, the top 1% earned 21.1% of all income. After the depression, it continued to lower until it was around 10% in the 60's and 70's. In 1996, it was at 15%. In 2006 (the last figure available), it had risen to 20.3%. McCain wants to give the rich even more tax cuts. This will kill the economy, as they are not spreading the wealth. Vote Obama. He has a better plan.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Joybeth, Old Hickory, TN — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 18:31:27 GMT

All outsourcing should cease, it was a big mistake. I bought a pair of socks on the way to work "Hanes" and they won't even stay up. They of course are made in China. Let's go back to American made goods with pride in quality workmanship. The cheap labor produces cheap junk not worth having!

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Nora, Los angeles, ca — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 18:32:14 GMT

Freetrade only benefit large corporation that use cheap labor in other countries to give gat bonuses to the ceos at the expense of the middle class. It does not even help the middle class in hte other countries since these dompanies don't pay a living salary.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Raymond Dunton, Bangor — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 18:33:56 GMT

lou,

it is pretty easy actually. With Obama as President, outsourcing will be less attractive to business because Obama would give tax breaks to companies that create jobs in the US. With McCain as president, he will continue the tax breaks for the wealthy corporations that move jobs overseas. Seems like a really easy choice for me. Obama-Biden '08

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Russell, Fayetteville, N.C — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 18:37:10 GMT

A lot of people want to blame the current situation on the Bush administration but jobs have been leaving this country this country since the early 90's just not your job. If people wanted to stop outsourcing they should of started 18 years ago when the textile jobs were leaving this country.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

aksa jamal brandon,fl — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 18:39:52 GMT

I want everybody to sit and think,I tell this to everyone I know.We take a mortage here in america,we do shopping in america from pin to anything, we pay taxes in america,we spend all over money on these company by buying their things whther it is sevices,goods,electronics anything.But these corporation make money from us and pay employee in some other country.I am an Indian I don't encourage anybody who call me from anywhere then usa.People in India are buyingnewcar,houses,ect.where else Our houses are getting forclose,car taken away,jobs gone.and it is just opposite there.I just went to India I was surprise to see.I am not saying that Indian should not progress but not at our or our childrens cost.our leaders have close their eye in usa
The reason for our economy is we are spending but we are not making.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Sanjeev, Bangalore, India — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 18:42:57 GMT

What we have is a global economy. National boundaries don’t limit trade. Many of these “American Companies” are not merely American – they are “Global Corporations”, selling products and services around the world, including in India. Just like they are sold around the world, they are also designed, sourced, built and supported around the world. Is that so outrageous a thing?

As an Indian, let me make my case. Most PCs in India run on Microsoft OS. For every 1000 Microsoft OSs bought in India, Microsoft should create a job in India (by outsourcing or otherwise). If you think that’s absurd, I find most of your arguments absurd too.

Welcome to the Global economy! If someone else can do what you do cheaper and equally good, that person will get to do it. That’s how free markets work. Learn to live with it.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Big Tee — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 18:45:25 GMT

Our manufacturing c ould compete on the world market better if, like many of the other industrialized countries of the world, health care was na expense of the government rather than the employer. This would help bring the cost of American made goods in line with those brought in from other countries.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Joe, San Bernardino ,ca — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 18:45:37 GMT

I work in the title insurance industry and there are thousands of us losing our jobs as of the end of this year due to out sourcing to india and pakistan. I don't think other countries should have our personal information like ssn ect. I will be out of a job that I had for 19 years..thanks corporate america!!

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

robster, TX — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 18:45:49 GMT

I work in IT for a large oil company. At least half our group is Indian. And, we're moving software development offshore to India.

It's scary seeing my(and my family's) future circling the drain.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

James, Dallas, Texas — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 18:47:26 GMT

And why is it the responsibility of the U.S. to provide jobs and economic security for India? That is the risk you take when you let your entire economy rest in the hands of another country. In this day and age of unemployment and financial crisis in the U.S., I say bring every single job sent over to India back and let them fend for themselves. It's time we finally started looking out for each other.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Brent, St. Louis, Mo — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 18:47:59 GMT

The way our economy is going, I just hope Indians don't start crying when India starts outsourcing its back office work to the U.S.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Trey D., Los Angeles, CA — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 18:48:53 GMT

I agree with most points of this discussion, but none of us own a large business. If labor costs go up ten fold, product prices will go up with it. Do we really want to pay five times as much for things and services provided by local workers vs. outsourced workers? We are so used to inexpensive comsumables, can we really afford to stop outsourcing?

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Joseph, Sixpack-Plumberville USA — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 18:49:26 GMT

And it STILL amazes me that people would vote for McSame/Failin'! There is no other explanation for that other than ignorance and bigotry. Obama will be better for the USA. America first! Obama/Biden all the way!!!

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Chitti G, Philadelphia, PA — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 18:50:16 GMT

I am a Prof (from India; but my country doesn't matter) who works here. The way I look at it this is different. Call it academic perspective if you wish.

Imagine a big container that is almost full of water and other big/small containers that are almost empty. Now connect the big container to others using several tubes. If you place the tubes at the bottom, water level in all containers will soon be the same. If we place the tubes near the top of the big container, then water levels will NOT be equal in all containers.

Big container - Wealthy nations such as the USA.
Tube - Globalization (Internet, Free trade, etc).
Water - Wealth.

The question is not whether to connect big container to other containers or not (globalization is here!) but to determine the position of the tube.

I have seen/experienced/lived-in both countries.

In the US, people doesn't seem to understand (and appreciate) that they have more than the people in developing nations.

My 2c.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Netta — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 18:50:55 GMT

When I call for service on my cell, or computer, or credit card, I ask if the center is in the USA. If not, I take some information and then call up the company and register a complaint. Usually I won't use their services or buy their product and I'll send an e-mail why. Start complaining people! Back it up by refusing to buy the product.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Bob Sox — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 18:51:17 GMT

It is really pathetic to compare how we, the workers in US being treated with the what is happening in India. Are the multi-millioner CEOs only in US are evil..? Read this:

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Business/Jet_chief_apologises_to_sacked_staff/articleshow/3609034.cms

Jet chief Naresh Goyal apologises to sacked employees
17 Oct 2008, 1705 hrs IST, PTI
Print Email Discuss Share Save Comment Text:
MUMBAI: Jet Airways chairman Naresh Goyal on Friday personally apologised to a group of sacked employees and promised to work together for the pro
sperity of the airline.

"My apology to you for whatever happened...you are like my children and I will not let you down. We will together make it (Jet) a big company," Goyal told the group of employees whom he met here.

A group of employees numbering about 200 met Goyal at a five-star hotel in the city.

Goyal has since left the meeting which is still on with other top executives of Jet.

In the face of difficult situation in the aviation industry, Jet had announced that it would sack 1,900 employees including 700 probationers.

The axed employees were taken back on Thursday night following political pressure.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

JC Seattle — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 18:52:08 GMT

Isolationism, ah, another proven mistake. It is a global economy like it or not.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

LoudNClear, GA — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 18:53:57 GMT

Outsourcing is just one of the manifestations of the overall "free trade" policy that America has embraced and is biting back. Hot air will flow towards cold air if there are no barriers. A country's economy must be self-sustaining and must not primarily be export/import based. This goes true both for US and India. Middle class domestic consumption is the key.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Raymond, Bangor — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 18:56:07 GMT

The Republicans have worked for and established tax policies that result in moving US jobs overseas. One more reason to vote for the team of Obama-Biden which wants to end these tax breaks for companies that outsource our jobs.

Obama-Biden '08

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Robin Port Charlotte FL — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 18:56:09 GMT

Ok let me ask a question. If O'bama wins and he increases the taxes on corporation who do you think is going to pay for it. Not the corporations it will be passed on in price increases or more corporations will move their entire headquarters out of the US to avoid paying the high taxes. More jobs lost at every level from the cleaning staff on up.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

big Tee — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 18:56:46 GMT

the argument that our business taxes are too high holds water only when those businesses pay thier taxes. most large corporations don't pay those taxes.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

notunderage Spokane, Washington — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 19:01:48 GMT

I'm not sure that my last blog was submitted. Until we end outsourcing as a way to supposedly reduce the costs of manufacturing and other services, our economy will continue to suffer. If the costs were truly passed on to consumers, it might be more palatable, but that is not happening.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Flash Gordan — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 19:02:34 GMT

My view is...let us give the Indians jobs that can do more cheaply and let us concentrate on jobs we can do better than them. With the internet, there is no way we can stop the trend.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Bob Sox — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 19:02:49 GMT

LoudNClear, how can you expect the middle class consume, if their income disappers due to offshoring?

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Angry American.... New York — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 19:03:20 GMT

Corporate America should be taxed heavily and fined heavily for jobs that are sent to third world countries.... this is not outsourcing..... this is called corporate sweatshops!!!!! Cheap labor.... We have caused our own economic downfall in this country...How sad and pathetic!!!!

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

One Arizonan — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 19:04:54 GMT

We want everything cheap. We everything thrown away in a couple of years and want to get those things away cheap. How that is done? By manufacturing in China, having back-offices in India and illegal aliens to do low paying jobs. At lease those countries are worrying about their citizens. Our politians blatently support businesses that send jobs overseas, do not have our citizens interest above those of businesses. Our Fed reserve chairman lowers interest rates so that businesses can get 'cheap' money to invest in other countries so that they can make profit cheaply and we can get 'cheap' products. Go figure!

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Rich — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 19:05:08 GMT

Bring the jobs back home!

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Jose V — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 19:05:23 GMT

I strongly believe that the Companies shipping the jobs abroad and the governments making the regulations favorable to those companies should be blamed more than Indian workers. Every human being in the world always trying to have a better life, when Indians get the chance they are using the opportunity. Indians didn't steal our jobs, but our corporates supplied our jobs to India to get richer and richer while making the middle class American the ultimate scape goats.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Nemyjr. — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 19:06:28 GMT

This is why we need change NOW!!! We cannot afford another 4 years of the same politics. Outsourcing has to stop, especially in these difficult times where there are so many American families losing their jobs and their homes.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Joanne, Stockton CA — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 19:16:23 GMT

One of the early industries to move to another country was the sport shoe industry. There used to be stories that they paid those workers something like a dollar a day. But did the price of those fancy sport shoes ever go down. No, only up. Sometimes paying lower wages does not mean the American consumer gets a better deal.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

hmoo, winston-salem, nc — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 19:16:47 GMT

This is very telling. She thinks the Indian call centers would be more successful with a republican president because the out-sourceing of American Jobs would be more likely to continue.

I guess she knows who is really for American Jobs.

I'm voting for Obama.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

George Bohm, Palo Alto, CA — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 19:23:21 GMT

Someone (Sanjeev?) said that just because India buys Microsoft OSes, we should create jobs there.

Nonsense. You don't do us any favors by buying Microsoft - you don't have a choice. Even if *every* microsoft job was based in the US, you would still be buying Microsoft. Why? What else can you do?

That being said, there are legitimate reasons why offshoring is happening. High health care costs in the US is one. Executive comp. schemes based on stock is another.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Cornelius, Old Bridge, NJ — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 19:26:01 GMT

We have all suffered the devastating consequences of outsourcing. Not only is it killing our way of life and confidence, it is also sapping the skills and desire to get into Technology fields for fear that after spending so much to learn, you are likely to become a victim of outsorcing on top of mounting academic debts. Its killing the American dream and needs to stop ASAP.

India asks what election means for ‘world’s back office’

Self Employed, USA — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 19:26:11 GMT

There is definitely a double standard in America. Given two identical products, most people will buy the one that costs less. Outsourcing to foreign countries made the product cheaper, and by buying it we tell companies that this is what we want; Make a cheap product and we'll buy it, no matter how much of it involves US workers. We reap what we sow. If we want less outsourcing, we need to buy products that cost more but are made by US workers. The only other solution is for US labor to become more competitive with the rest of the world.