An interpretive investigation of the information systems outsourcing phenomenon

摘要: The purpose of this research was to provide reflective stance by investigating the information systems outsourcing phenomenon from individuals who have already gone through evaluation process. Through a series in-depth interviews with participants in thirteen companies, many insights were gained about intentions, motivations and consequences evaluations: First, organizational members may initiate for reasons other than cost efficiency. Participants identified variety motives initiating decisions: react efficiency imperative, acquire or justify additional resources, positive media reports, reduce uncertainty, eliminate burdensome function enhance personal credibility. Second, an vendor not be inherently more efficient internal MIS Department. theory economies scale states that large sized companies achieve lower average costs small due mass production labor specialization efficiencies. In arena, however, applicability model challenged. Small shops per MIP employing older technology, offering below market wages, maintaining tight controls procedures. A vendor's hardware discounts are negligible instances. Changes software licensing agreements diminish advantage. Labor expertise is largely myth since clients usually supported same staff transitioned vendor. Third, department able similar results without assistance. When vendors submit bids indicate savings, question whether they can Perhaps company their own expenses data center consolidation, resource optimization, chargeback implementation, sundry methods. Fourth, if decides outsource, contract only mechanism ensure expectations realized. some decide preferred achieving objectives, often like view as partners. This assumption, erroneous... partners because profit shared. An way equitable balance power. Service level measures, provisions growth, penalties non-performance must stipulated prior commencement. (Abstract shortened UMI.)