Danger of Outsourcing.

THE LAST THING most CIOs want to think about as they embark on a major outsourcing deal is what will happen when it ends. After all, reaching the decision to outsource some or all of an organization's IT services requires a great deal of business case analysis, transition planning and soul-searching about the best way to handle the many human issues involved. Assuming that the organization views the pending transaction as positive, or at least …

…but one that offers potential benefits to the organization in terms of cost, service levels and access to talent. Managing an outsourcing deal well is not just a matter of negotiating effectively or implementing a strong governance model. Effective outsourcing management requires a life cycle approach that includes a robust sunset strategy. Whether you are contemplating an outsourcing arrangement or are well into one now, it's never too soon to start looking for the exit.