June 2005 Cutter Benchmark Review: Sourcing: Making the Relationship Work

by David Herron

Various publications' recent reports on the successes and failures of outsourcing engagements suggest that our industry still has room for improvement. A 2004 Cutter Consortium survey indicates that we remain dissatisfied with our outsourcing services. Considering the myriad articles, research, and white papers covering various outsourcing experiences, you have to wonder what's left to be learned. We know that the decision to outsource should be driven by a reasonably sound and well-thought-out business case. We have learned about techniques necessary to help organizations choose the right provider. And we have been exposed to the well-documented risks associated with outsourcing. So what's missing?