Business of Games: Want to win in external dev? Stop thinking like a vendor.

Act like an extension of the client—strategic, not transactional, 343#

Jun 12, 2025

Hey Friends, Greetings from Bangalore 💗

Demand for traditional outsourcing has declined year-over-year (2023–2025).

Here’s what’s replacing it: value alignment, deeper relationships, and security-conscious collaboration.

The XDS 2025 report shows us loud and clear:
» Buyers want flexible, long-term support—not quick one-offs.
» Top selection drivers? Quality, rates, track record, and security.
» Fewer service providers are getting more of the work—because they act like an extension of the client, not vendors.

Security is no longer a bonus. It’s a buying criterion.
Security has emerged as a key selection criterion, especially with hybrid/remote workflows becoming the norm.