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| Solutions for our times |
| For further information and to receive complete copies of any of the white papers you see here, Contact Al Uretsky, Managing Partner Estrella Partners Group, LLC Tel.: (623) 594-9283 auretsky@estrellapartners.com |
| IT Vendor Management in Hard Economic Times; By Harvey Fain, Doug Schwinn, and Al Uretsky Introduction In the current global economy, successful businesses have changed their approach to managing information technology activities as dictated by the availability of budgetary funds for operating costs and capital expenditures. As a result thereof, sourcing professionals have been addressing areas of concern such as; maintaining IT performance at expected levels and responding to competitive pressures, security and regulatory mandates and constant business changes continue to be a critical success factor, all with reduced operation budgets. Competitive pressures are increasing, customers are demanding more and competitors are becoming more efficient. The challenge is to become more efficient and invest in Information Technology where the return on investment is realized quickly and where business competitiveness can be improved at reduced funding levels. The most effective businesses are balancing innovation with intelligent spending. Alternatives that allow businesses to reduce costs and improve service levels without additional capital investments should be evaluated. Compromises need to be made, but not at the sacrifice of engagement quality or customer satisfaction. Companies need to take an honest look at their internal operations and focus on their core business. Many firms may be able reduce cost by outsourcing particular activities that are not critical to their core business or where they do not have the internal expertise in order to be efficient in particular areas. Vendor Management is an all-inclusive approach to managing the affairs and interactions with the companies that supply your business with goods and services. This includes communications, business practices, negotiations, methodologies and software that are used to establish and maintain a relationship with a vendor. Benefits include lower costs, higher quality, mutually agreed upon expectations and better forecasting that result in a win-win relationship. |