10 success factors - Outsourcing

There are many benefits to outsourcing. Companies are able to focus on their core competencies, benefit from cost savings and manage workloads more efficiently. With these benefits, there are also challenges. These challenges can relate to project management, cultural differences and management of expectations. To help companies benefit from outsourcing, we will have a look into the top 10 oversights companies frequently incur. Through these lessons learned, we hope that you are able to benefit from experiences gained by your peers.

1) Companies try to outsource project management responsibility:
It is often thought that once something is outsourced, it no longer requires attention. From a different perspective, when companies outsource - they are insourcing expertise, which is similar to hiring consultants. Without proper internal project management, companies can experience an increase in the project scope (reduction in cost savings); inefficiencies related to misunderstood expectations and increased tension between the service provider and the company.
Project management can be performed externally, however, this should be done with a third party provider that has clearly defined key performance measures.
2) Project scope is too big:
If the scope is too large or not well defined, it will cause problems for any type of project. Our partners have found that smaller pilots are an effective way for organizations to get their feet wet in outsourcing; gain crucial organization know-how and build relationships that will serve as a solid foundation for future, more comprehensive outsourcing initiatives.
3) Project definitions / expectations are not clearly defined
Reasonable, measurable, documented expectations are necessary to determine success or failure of the outsourcing effort. Without upfront investment in proper planning, the benefits of outsourcing will diminish quickly.
4) Key performance indicators are not properly defined or measured/enforced
It is critical to establish the key performance indicators(KPI's) prior to initiating the project. KPI's should includedelivery dates, quality measurements and financialmeasures. It is important to review the KPI's on a regularbasis and have mechanisms in place to resolveperformance issues when KPI's are not met. KPI's shouldbe viewed as a way to strengthen the workingrelationship.
5) Internal conflicts / politics are not managed properly
Outsourcing is a sensitive topic. Internal conflicts / politics can result from such initiatives. Managing these issues as soon as possible will help prevent them from escalating throughout the organization. Pro-active change management initiatives can help reduce the likelihood of such conflicts.
6) Mechanism to resolve disputes is not defined:
Even with best intentions, disputes can develop. It is important to define how to address disputes, define the escalation process and if necessary, the appointment of third party arbitration. A poorly defined dispute resolution process will affect performance and quality. This problem is closely related to poorly defined or poorlymeasured/monitored performance characteristics.
7) Business case / total costs are not realistic:
If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Costing outsourcing engagements requires more that the simple calculation of (number of hours) x (rates). Investment in process changes, infrastructure and external support should be factored into the equation as well as internal
project management time.
8) Capabilities of outsourcing company are exaggerated:
Detailed due diligence including multiple conversations with current customers is the minimum requirement for understanding the outsourcer's capabilities. Working with outsourcing providers with a solid track record will help minimize many of the headaches associated with being the first client.
9) Outsourcing company chosen based on personal relationship, not qualifications:
When choosing an outsourcing provider, it is important to define clearly the outsourcing provider profile. This should include location, language capabilities, reference requirements, industry expertise, etc. If the outsourcing company does not fulfill these requirements, the reasons for selecting the company should be questioned.
10) Proper consulting support / legal counsel is not involved in project:
Outsourcers negotiate contracts with companies all of the time, most companies do it less frequently. Acquiring proper consulting support / legal counsel will make the process more efficient and mitigate potential future oversights. When selecting a third party provider for
support, it is important to conduct a similar due diligence to the one used for selecting an outsourcing provider.

Rush Hour 3

10th August we i.e me and about 6 of my office colleagues and one of the elder brother of one of our colleagues went for this movie Rush Hour 3. The reason we had to go for this movie is Jackie chan & Chris Tucker a pair who has given thrilling movies earlier in the earlier series of Rush Hour (1 & 2). Although the reviews were not so good, we had to trust our instincts and our liking for this cast which finally did prove right, cos we had a fantastic time.

The good thing was that it was first time we office colleagues were going together for a movie & it was like a guys day out. Movie is related in few ways to the older parts in few ways

1) There is Ambassador Haan and his daughter Su Yan who are part of discovering the syndicate running the underworld activities in the world & want to get this to end. Naturally they are in danger of being attacked by this syndicate to protect their interests and

2) This is where Inspector Lee(Jackie Chan) & LAPD James Carter(Chris Tucker) come together again to save them and find out who is behind this syndicate.

The search leads to Paris & the thrill that takes place in the Eiffel Tower is worth watching. Jackie Chan looks older but still continues to show the agility which can shy off even the fittest teenager. Chris Tucker is at his best & his presence has dominated the movie throughout & it is pure exhasuting fun. Looking at the sequel and keeping in mind the earlier parts tends to make you feel you are almost seeing similar story, but it is again well handled & is fun to watch.

We all were laughing so much at some of the jokes that we missed a few good jokes sometimes.

One of the funniest parts in the movie is when Jackie chan & Chris Tucker go for looking at Su Yan's locker at the Karate class that she goes & there is this lovely confusion of names of the chinese teacher & Chris Tucker. I had got similar joke sent to me few weeks back, just wanted to share this:

Caller: Hello, can I speak to Annie Wan?

Operator: Yes, you can speak to me.

Caller: No, I want to speak to Annie Wan!

Operator: Yes I understand you want to speak to anyone. You can speak to me. Who is this? Caller: I'm Sam Wan. And I need to talk to Annie Wan! It's urgent.

Operator: I know you are someone and you want to talk to anyone! But what's this urgent matter about?

Caller: Well... just tell my sister Annie Wan that our brother Noe Wan was involved in an accident. Noe Wan got injured and now Noe Wan is being sent to the hospital. Right now, Avery Wan is on his way to the hospital.

Operator: Look, if no one was injured and no one was sent to the hospital, then the accident isn't an urgent matter! You may find this hilarious but I don't have time for this!

Caller: You are so rude! Who are you?

Operator: I'm Saw Ree.

Caller: Yes! You should be sorry. Now give me your name!!

Operator: That's what I said. I'm Saw Ree

Ain't it good!!! imagine Chris Tucker as the caller & it sure is fun.

A few times the movie is almost like a bollywood thriller which disobeys the universal laws but one can neglect these.

All in all I would recommend this movie for Jackie Chan lovers to be seen atleast once for the sheer fun. I would rate it a 3.5 Star movie. You can get more news on http://rushhourmovie.com/

Staying Motivated During An Extended Job Search

Anyone who has been in the job market for any length of time knows how frustrating the process can be. In today's competitive environment it's not uncommon to send out numerous resumes yet generate only limited response for your effort. This can have even the most confident professional questioning his or her marketability and job-hunting abilities. It can be particularly challenging to stay motivated when a search takes longer than expected. The techniques you used early on may no longer be effective or appropriate several months into the process. It's critical to continually reassess your strategy and take steps to keep up your morale. Here are a few suggestions:
Take a class: While your job search is no doubt your top priority, using some of your time to gain new skills can be a wise distraction-and a valuable investment. Consider courses that will increase your marketability, such as those focused on business communication or technology. You'll expand your knowledge base and improve your longterm career prospects. Even if the course is unrelated to your profession, you can still benefit. Learning should be an ongoing process whether or not you're actively in the job market.
Volunteer: There's no more effective way to lift your spirits than to help others. As an added bonus, you'll expand your network, which is particularly valuable during a job search.
Take a break: Designate a day when you won't talk or think about employment issues. By allowing yourself some time off, you can recharge and remain productive.
Be around positive people: Surround yourself with friends and family who are supportive and maintain an optimistic outlook on life. This will help you keep your spirits high and provide the motivation you need when you hit a career roadblock.
Get exercise: Studies have shown that physical activity can minimize the psychological impact of stress. Getting into a regular exercise routine will keep you energized. Hiring managers look for enthusiasm when interviewing job applicants. It isn't always easy to maintain that enthusiasm several weeks or months into the search. Exercise can help.
Attend association meetings: Participating in activities offered by professional associations, including the Institute of Management Accountants, can help you increase your visibility in the accounting community. Play an active role in the group, and volunteer for projects. You'll make new contacts while providing much-needed assistance to a volunteer-driven organization.
Keep a record of your search: Spend about 10 to 15 minutes a day writing down your thoughts about the process. What progress did you make? What setbacks did you encounter? What new avenues can you pursue? The simplest ideas often can be the catalysts for new approaches to your search.
Talk to a professional: A career counselor or professional recruiter can assess your resume and cover letter, offer an overview of the employment market in your area, and recommend steps you might take to better target your search.
Re-evaluate your priorities: Failing to accomplish your job-- search objectives can be discouraging, so it's worth taking a second look at your goals. Have you inadvertently been setting yourself up for failure? For instance, if you are only willing to work for companies in a specific industry or geographic area, you may need to expand your search. Would you be willing to drive an extra 30 minutes each way for the right opportunity? Would you consider a position that has a lower base salary yet room for advancement? Decide your absolute must-haves, and be prepared to compromise on those aspects of the job that are like to-haves, particularly in a competitive job market.
Read books about successful people: Almost everyone has encountered a setback on the way to the top. Learning about the experiences of others can help you keep your own situation in perspective.
Join a support group: Talking with others who are going through the same experience is important so you can feel connected and develop new ideas that can help your search. Most major cities have career resource centers that host networking meetings for job seekers. You'll be surprised how willing people are to assist you, whether they offer leads on companies that are hiring or simply listen to your concerns.

The job-search process can be challenging in any employment environment, particularly for those not accustomed to marketing their skills on a daily basis. Finding a new position requires persistence and, at times, an ability to overcome rejection.
When faced with an extended job hunt, you need a strategy for maintaining motivation over the long term. Increasing your marketability, getting involved in the community, and periodically reassessing your goals can help you stay on track, by keeping a positive attitude in the face of setbacks, you'll position yourself well to demonstrate that resilience to prospective employers.