Summary
Outsourcing of some business
functions pre-dates the technological revolution of the latter part of the 20th century.
Nevertheless, 99 percent of outsourcing would not be logical or necessary if it were not
for the constantly changing and improving technology.
Despite the circumstances,
most organizations are left with no alternative but to keep trying to improve their
systems. They then have two basic alternatives. They can either do it in-house by buying
the necessary equipment, software, and external help, or they can externalize the function
completely by taking one of the outsourcing routes.
Research undertaken into
project failure rates at the beginning of 2000 has provided the author with a unique
insight into the real level of success obtained from choosing either internal or external
solutions to the competitive problem.
The Outsourcing Dilemma
presents the arguments for and against outsourcing and suggests ways in which the enormous
problems of maintaining competitiveness might be approached.
The book examines:
- the
changing times that have brought about the need to be competitive in all functions
- the
various internal solutions to the problem of maintaining competitiveness
- the
advantages and disadvantages of the external solution of outsourcing
- the
extent to which outsourcing is being practiced and the functions being outsourced
- the
growing range of alternatives to full outsourcing
- a
range of factors that potential clients should know about outsourcing providers
- factors
to consider when choosing an outsourcing service provider
- alternative
options toward achieving lasting competitiveness
The Outsourcing Dilemma
includes controversial case studies highlighting the advantages and potential pitfalls of
outsourcing, and a revolutionary long-term competitiveness option - "Business
Satellites" - that does not require short-term dramatic change, expense, and
disruption.
Competitive advantage is a
choice. Who are you going to entrust it to?
Table of Contents
Introduction.
1. Changing times in commerce.
2. How can an organization become and stay competitive?
3. The outsourcing alternative.
4. Reasons for outsourcing the various business functions.
5. Variations on the outsourcing theme.
6. Points to be aware of when choosing a service provider.
7. The process of choosing a service provider.
8. Potential drivers of outsourcing.
9. Risks and concerns for both parties.
10. What does all this mean?
11. An alternative way of approaching the competitiveness problem.
Appendix A: Starting the outsourcing process.
Appendix B: Before contemplating the outsourcing transition.
Appendix C: The essential elements of the contract.
Appendix D: The rights of transferred staff.
Index.
206 Pages Paperback