Realizing the Advantage

Creating variable capacity via outsourcing can be complex when the functions under consideration are decentralized within the company. If a centralized operation is to be outsourced, typically fewer stakeholders are involved, and the process is less arduous. Successful transitions typically focus on:
» Identifying cost reduction opportunities that don't compromise the integrity of existing programs;
» Streamlining workflows and improving processes—within a specific country, across a region, or around the world;
» Establishing analytical teams that are centralized, offshore/external, and scalable;
» Enabling a common platform for research findings and recommendations; and
» Focusing a smaller number of internal resources, each with unique talent or knowledge, on higher-value activities that leverage analytical output.

However, if a company's processes or functions are decentralized, there is an even greater opportunity to drive speed to insight as analytical and information processes can be streamlined in a manner that eliminates commonly redundant activities through:
» Improved data integration and management;
» Best practice analytic approaches and methodologies;
» Consistency in Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and metrics to measure success; and
» Leveraging a common knowledge repository.