Consider how much of a business day is spent on a computer; everything from faxes and email to order fulfillment and payment processing is done via computers. They are embedded tools that businesses depend on and whose stable operation has a direct impact on business productivity.

The Conflict Between Outsourcing IT Needs and Maintaining Internal Staff

Traditionally, businesses employ an independent IT service provider. Unfortunately the IT provider's services aren't utilized until after the client has undergone considerable internal discussion regarding the project and usually the client is eager to progress forward.

Therefore, all consultation is focused on the specific project being discussed, making it hard to consider long-term goals and concerns. The client loses the benefit of early consultation that may have led to better alternatives.

 The other option for a business is to employ its own internal IT staff. However, the costs of maintaining and supervising a staff whose operations are not well understood may make this an unwise investment. (continued...)