July 19, 2011 - Outsourcing can be a touchy subject for some, but it has been a long established practice in aerospace, defense and medical device markets. The big questions that any company must ask themselves: 1.) Does it make sense for us to outsource?, and 2.) Can we maintain quality if we do so?
If you have employees who are already trained and qualified to do the job, you can delegate the latest project to them. However, if you don’t have enough employees, or they are untrained or inexperienced in a particular technology, application area or approach where you need work to be done, or if you need them to focus on more critical core programs, you have two options: hire and/or train employees or outsource the work.
Hiring and training employees costs money and time. Outsourcing the work may be the better option, especially if you need the work done right away. In many cases, outsourcing not only provides the most qualified resources, but it can also be the most affordable option.
Ensuring outsourcing success comes down to three things. First, outsourcing with a specific goal, such as to use a specialized skillset. And not to have conflicting priorities, such as needing to pull in schedule AND lowering costs. Second, selecting the right partner. It is critical to know the outsourcer has the right skills, experience and fit to deliver what you need, how you need it and when you need it. Finally, ensure effective management. Outsourcing isn’t a set it and forget it approach. Many outsourcing firms provide processes and tools to minimize your hands on management requirements, but still provide the insights you need to ensure the work is getting done.
One final thought on outsourcing — success and quality in outsourcing also comes from treating it like a partnership. We all succeed or fail together.