The offshoring debate in a small organization

This is not to say that companies should never offshore services. In fact, in some cases, it makes sense. I’m all for the concept of “the best man wins.” If a company in another country has more experience and can do a better job on a particular task, great. That company deserves the business. If, however, the sole reason for outsourcing is to move tasks to a cheaper locale in order to maximize profits for shareholders, I think we enter a gray area and the plans need to be rethought to make sure the right thing is done. I’ve done a ton of business with consulting firms based elsewhere that I felt were the best choice at the time for the task at hand.

It’s also heartening to see U.S.-based companies also working hard to keep jobs in local communities.

We can’t be successful unless we immerse ourselves in the global economy and it’s important to keep costs down and make sure that shareholders enjoy a return on their investment; but keeping costs down in a way that will ultimately make sure that there are no consumers left in the U.S. that can afford product is not a sustainable business model, unless corporations eventually plan to completely abandon the U.S. market in favor of global venues.

Me? I’ll check that box on guru.com that allows bids from non-US freelancers, but unless there is a serious and compelling reason to do otherwise, I’ll still favor my own economy.