 | OUTSOURCING IN 2012 | | | | | Time is Money, Use it Wisely ... | Posted by Kirsty Parris on 07/02/2012 @ 08:30 |
In today's tough economic times, many cash-strapped businesses are seeking new ways to reduce costs. As such, many firms are looking into outsourcing as a means of doing so, whilst maintaining business functions necessary for growth (accounting, payroll, IT and so forth) without the overheads associated with full-time employees ...
 outsourcing processes enables you to spend more time developing your business
Outsourcing is essentially any business operation or process that could be performed by you or the employees within your business, however is instead contracted out to a third party.
Many business owners find they are working 'in' their business rather than 'on' it. They may be caught up 'in' administrative tasks when they really need to spend more time 'on' business development, marketing and sales. This can be a source of stress for business owners/managers, who are already juggling their responsibilities to customers, suppliers and staff.
There are only so many hours in the day and if managers try to do everything, they will inevitably fall short and the business will suffer as a result. Outsourcing functions such as payroll, invoicing, customer service and secretarial functions gives the staff the time and the freedom to spend more time working on developing the business through sales, marketing and customer service.
The first step to implementing a successful outsourcing programme is to decide which tasks to outsource. Taking the decision to outsource often sensitive and business-critical tasks such as invoicing or payroll isn't straightforward; it requires the business owner/manager to put a lot of trust in a third party. In owner-managed businesses in particular, it can seem hard for management to relinquish control.
A manageable way to embark upon an outsourcing relationship is to start by delegating less critical tasks such as typing services or administrative work. At the beginning, each party needs to learn how to work together and communicate effectively in order to establish a sound business relationship with the potential for strong foundations upon which to build for the future. As the outsourcing arrangement begins to yield results, the business will get a feel for the competencies of the outsourcing partner/service provider and soon begin to see the benefits of this type of arrangement.
Over time, management will become more comfortable with the idea of outsourcing and the business will then be able to maximize the benefits of the outsourcing programme - they will have more time to spend developing the business whilst benefitting from reduced staffing costs.
We're more than happy to offer advice on outsourcing so if you'd like to discuss the matter in greater depth then simply give me a call on +44 (0) 1908 219100.
Until next time ... 
KIRSTY PARRIS
|
 | Kirsty is Partner of Ad Valorem Sales & Marketing LLP, a sister company of Chartered Certified Accountants, Ad Valorem.
Within Ad Valorem Sales & Marketing, Kirsty works very closely with clients on a consultancy basis, helping them grow and develop their business. By focusing on marketing, systems, people and processes Kirsty enables clients to achieve both their personal and business goals.
Anything you want to know about Ad Valorem Kirsty is the person to speak to its a case of dont ask Jeeves ask Kirsty! Kirsty is a good listener; with excellent communication skills. She prides herself on her swift response to all client queries, either offering clear, concise advice or ensuring that any issue is dealt with promptly.
|
|
|
