Key Outsourcing Area

Development

Traditionally the offshoring IT function of choice, offerings are mature and as safe a bet as the CIO is going to get. Experts suggest starting small with a project or two, but bigger moves could follow.

Testing

Outsourcing testing functions are another way to start small, particularly if your organization is just dipping its toes in the offshoring pool.

Application Management

Some companies prefer to keep the dev team, but want to run lean. Application management outsourcing keeps creative control in-house, while upkeep and management are off-loaded.

Database Management

Database management is a likely app management function for outsourcing. An outsourcing firm often retains better database and data management experts than the typical enterprise for a fraction of the price.

ERP

Another specific application function picking up in outsourcing popularity. SAP expertise in particular can be costly to hire fulltime. Either onshore or offshore providers may be able to more efficiently handle ERP management

Help Desk

Outsourcing help desk services can streamline an organization, though more advanced support can be hampered by language barriers if this function goes offshore.

PC Maintenance

Debate remains over where to send the jobs, but they’re going. Some companies pick a provider that offers a hybrid approach, with local team members on site when necessary.

Systems Integration

As M&A activity picks up, systems integration will grow in importance. The fusion of onshore and offshore outsourcing is useful in this case, as onsite work is a necessary component of integration tasks.

Business Process Outsourcing

BPO and knowledge process outsourcing are gaining steam, and CIOs are being tapped to oversee this kind of outsourcing due to their previous outsourcing experience.