To Outsource or Not to Oursource

Nearly everyone who works in the services industry has at some point heard the term Outsourcing more than once and can bring fear amongst some fellow workers. But is it really what we expect it to be? Do we believe that outsourcing is the end game of in-house services? I for one don’t believe it is. Times have changed in the outsourcing arena; the attitude of 'them and us' seems to be a thing of the past. The arena is no longer a seated event where the customer sits as a spectator and the outsourcer is watched as the main event. It's more open these days, the event is interactive where the customer and the outsourcer are part of the same story. The key to a successful partnership when outsourcing services can never be just one thing. The foundation of a relationship needs to be laid for something to grow. Understanding each other and working closely as a function are primary aims for any successful partnership. Boundaries need to be defined, with a clear understanding of what is to be expected in the relationship. Overcoming the fear and lack of understanding of an outsource relationship can be complex and emotional for both partners. How we perceive the other is sometimes blurred and castles can quickly be built as personal protection. It is important that we understand why outsourcing is needed and if it is right for you and your business, because sometimes the easy answer is not always the best. There are many benefits to an outsourcing service and with a simple Google search you will find a plethora of do’s and don’ts when outsourcing. But sometimes a business finds itself in a position that has become untenable through resource, cash flow or function break down. Turning to outsourcing can be seen as a way of resolving this position, and rightly so; after all outsourcing is a service that helps. A good service provider will work closely with your business to understand the culture of your business, the needs and most importantly why you require this service. Also a good service provider will know its weakness and know your strengths and be able to work closely to maximise both and encourage the growth of the relationship. The fear of outsourcing is enforced by the horror stories of others who have ventured the path of outsourcing, and let’s be honest you’re more likely to notice these rather than the successful ones. Having worked in the industry for many years I have seen both and worked on both sides as the outsourcer and customer. During this time I have seen the many benefits outsourcing has brought, not just the cost saving it brings but also the on tap expertise and the flexibility needed. Being able to call up resource for key projects as well as the normal operation of the day to day business has been invaluable. Knowing you have access to such services reduces the workload of tenders and trying to find a suitable resource to carry out work, has enabled me to focus on more key business needs and help reduce my overhead costs of engaging new resource. So would I use outsourcing again? The question is relevantly simple as is the answer. With a growing need to be flexible in a business and focus on the core business drivers, outsourcing has enabled the business functions to deliver so many times. If I am in a position where the core business is different from that project that needs to be done or business function; then I would certainly use the outsourcing route. Of course only the business can decide if the outsourcing route is the best approach for its needs. Speaking to an outsourcer in a non-formal, very open way can certainly help you make those decisions. Therefore, if you find your business is in need of something that is outside its core business or skill set then don’t dismiss outsourcing; it could be just what your business needs. For further information please contact Celerity Limited Bill Guile, Technical Service Delivery Manager - Celerity Limited See More at http://www.celerity-uk.com/