HSMP(Tier 1 PBS) or Work Permit?

[vividprose]

Hi

I am currently in India and intend to go to UK for long term job opportunity in IT.
I am having more than 7 yrs experience in IT industry.

I know almost all procedure for applying for Tier 1 (PBS) but am very wary of visiting UK without a job offer. I am unable to gather much knowledge about Work Permit.

Sorry for asking a naive question - but what is the advisable way, considering my profile - to visit UK?

Should it be on Tier 1 - PBS or
Should it be on Work Permit?

Are there considerable no of employers who sponser Work permit from outside UK?
I am asking, as I read in some of the forums many ppl taking Work permit path.

If WP is the path for me, pls post agency / company names which do that.
Will be highly grateful for any guidance / valuable information.

Pls reply based on my current situation.

[vinny]

See also Guidance - Work permit holders (INF 13) and Chapter 17 - Entry for employment: work permits and Work permits.