A common trend in IT is outsourcing. The allure of smooth sailing, fewer headaches, and lower cost generally capture senior leadership's attention. The sales pitches about all of the success stories are often compelling. However, just like calm (but murky) waters on a mild day hide the rocks under the surface, so do many of the outsourcing vendor claims. With some background understanding (and a lot of due diligence), you can avoid most of those rocks and navigate the waters. However, [...]

In an outsourcing arrangement you have one of two approaches: work up front to reduce potential disputes or be prepared to deal with the fallout. The less aggressive you are with your outsourcing management, the more profitable you are to the outsourcing company. Does fallout mean you will be in court? Sometimes yes, but sometimes it means re-negotiating a contract, or worse still, skyrocketing costs which can exceed the original costs. Outsourcing Relationship or Arrangement The sales personne [...]