Does quality compromise with outsourcing
When you ask us about this, our answer is very simple, it may be yes, maybe no, and sometimes maybe. Well, maybe this answer is not simple because it is a particularly loaded question. The topic of outsourcing is a very sensitive issue for many. There are those who believe that outsourcing, be it offshore or local, takes jobs from qualified individuals while others who benefit from outsourcing are strong advocates of the practice. This article will look at outsourcing and examine scenarios where quality is compromised as well as scenarios where quality is not compromised.
What is outsourcing?
In its simplest form, outsourcing is the hiring of an individual from outside a work organization to perform specific tasks for monetary compensation. Outsourcing can be done on a per-project basis, for a fixed period of time or on an ongoing basis for an indefinite period of time.
When they think of outsourcing, they picture underage employees in third world countries working for salaries that would be trivial by our standards. However, outsourcing has evolved a lot and no longer resembles this stereotype. In fact, many outsourcing operations are done locally by savvy entrepreneurs who market their abilities as an independent contractor rather than hard work in corporate America. These individuals enjoy their quality of life, negotiate fair compensation for their work and accept or decline the work of their own volition. Moreover, these individuals are often highly qualified for the jobs they accept and are able to produce work of a high standard.
When outsourcing conflicts with quality
The simplest answer to this question is that quality is compromised when price becomes the sole ruling factor in selecting a candidate to complete an outsourcing job. Of course this answer is not entirely accurate because the fact is that there are highly educated and skilled employees abroad who are quite capable of completing tasks just like those who live in this country and often at a much lower price. However, when only domestic candidates are considered and price is the ruling factor, quality is often compromised because it is very rare that the most qualified candidate is also the one with the lowest prices.
However, it is very common for an individual or company to allow price to become more important than quality of work. When this happens, quality is often compromised in order to make a bigger profit. An example of this appears regularly on websites where outsourcing projects are listed and potential applicants bid for these projects. Many who use these sites routinely choose the lowest bidder without regard to the qualifications of the bidder. In most cases, these individuals find that they make a costly mistake when the work they receive is insufficient.
When outsourcing does not interfere with quality
Outsourcing doesn't always hurt quality. In fact, in many cases, outsourcing is not only the least expensive option, but also provides the most qualified candidates. One way to avoid the risk of compromising quality through outsourcing is to carefully screen candidates before making a decision. This process should be taken as seriously as hiring a full-time employee because one's work will reflect on you as an individual or your business. If due diligence is done to select the right candidate, quality is not likely to be compromised.
When outsourcing work to an individual, it is important to request detailed information regarding their qualifications and to verify all information provided. Examples of information to be requested include:
* Previous work history
* Related work experience
* Explanation of qualifications
Additionally, it is wise to ask for business and personal references. All of these references should be contacted and questioned about the work ethic and personal integrity of the individual.