Outsourcing–a good idea?

It’s a vexing question for small-business owners, especially those accustomed to self-reliance. Even though you might think of it as an added expense, outsourcing can increase productivity, making the cost worth it. More and more entrepreneurs are scrutinizing their internal operations, with an eye toward outsourcing. In the process, they’re discovering that outsourcing can be a viable option for many of the non-core aspects of their businesses.

To identify opportunities for your company, start by answering these questions:

What processes could be performed more efficiently or cost-effectively?
Are any routine, labor-intensive tasks keeping you or your employees from more mission-critical pursuits?
Do you have cyclical demands that are difficult for you staff to meet?
Which administrative activities do not contribute to profitability or create a competitive advantage?
Are there skills your business needs, but doesn’t have because it’s not practical or affordable to hire someone with these skills?
Is your technology infrastructure adequate? If not, what improvements would you like to make?

BY MELANY KLINCK