A growing scarcity of Forward Deployed Engineers (FDEs) in India’s IT industry is forcing companies to repackage multiple specialist roles into single positions, leading to concerns over the quality of AI implementation and potential cost inefficiencies for clients.
- FDEs combine deep technical expertise with on-site client engagement.
- Indian IT firms bundle specialists into single FDE roles amid talent scarcity.
- Clients face quality risks and possibly higher billing without true FDEs.
What happened
Indian IT companies are currently facing a shortage of Forward Deployed Engineers (FDEs), professionals who possess a rare combination of deep technical skills and the ability to work closely with clients on-site. These engineers are critical in the context of rising adoption of AI technologies, where bespoke customization and deployment are often required at the client location.
To cope with this talent gap, firms have begun repurposing or bundling roles, combining various specialist positions such as technical consultants and solution architects into a single FDE designation. While this strategy helps fulfill contractual demands for embedded engineers and onsite AI leads, it often delivers a diluted version of the original FDE role.
Why it matters
The scarcity of true FDEs threatens the effectiveness of AI deployments by limiting clients’ access to engineers with the deep product knowledge and technical expertise needed to address complex, real-world challenges. These engineers are essential for tailoring AI products in ways that meet specific business needs, a requirement that off-the-shelf solutions cannot fulfill on their own.
When multiple roles are bundled into one and billed at higher rates under the FDE title, clients may not receive the anticipated level of technical proficiency. This scenario risks eroding trust and satisfaction while complicating vendor-client relationships as expectations around skill depth and service outcomes diverge.
What to watch next
Watch how Indian IT firms respond to this skills gap in the coming months—whether they invest in upskilling professionals to become authentic FDEs or modify their delivery models to rely more on remote expertise and automation. These decisions will impact the pace and quality of AI adoption across enterprise customers in India and beyond.
Additionally, monitor client feedback and contract negotiations related to onsite engineering services. Adjustments in billing practices or increased scrutiny over skill certifications could emerge as enterprises seek greater alignment between fees and actual value delivered, potentially influencing broader industry standards.