The final list of 30 countries included 13 from EMEA and for the first time saw two North African countries enter the leading countries in EMEA. Locations such as Ireland, Israel and South Africa fared well for language skills, because of the quality and quantity of English-language speakers. However, other countries, such as Morocco, Romania, the Czech Republic, Poland and Hungary were also given credit for the availability of alternative languages that address the needs of an increasing number of continental European buyers.

Cultural compatibility was variable, although only one EMEA country (the Ukraine) was rated lower than "good." In recent years, many countries in EMEA have become nearshore centres for traditional service providers and large Indian providers. This is reflected in the global and legal maturity section, where eight of the 13 countries scored between "good" and "excellent." Few countries in this region, with the exception of Russia, have a good selection of local service providers actively selling their capability outside their own country. In the final category of data and intellectual property security and privacy, a mature domestic environment or membership of the EU resulted in the highest ratings.

Gartner also found that external service providers (ESPs) have started to target places outside the 'Top 30' to get closer to mature countries, such as the Nordic regions and France that show increased interest in offshore. "Given the current financial turmoil, cost will remain an important factor. However having the right balance between lower cost and higher risks, and lower risks and higher costs will be critical in times of recession and uncertainty," said Marriott.