When discussing the topic of IT specialist outsourcing with clients or your team, it is often associated with various assumptions and myths, which can sometimes lead to tension. To help you navigate this, we’ve decided to debunk the most common myths we've encountered since 2008 during our time in the industry.
Myth #1: All outsourced specialists are not tested.
There is a fear that the specialist sent by the supplier is not sufficiently tested, leading to wasted time for everyone involved.
We’re happy to see that the level of IT specialist outsourcing has significantly advanced, and the market is much further ahead than it was ten or twenty years ago. Choosing a reliable supplier and trusting them is key, and with their help, you can be assured of having only high-quality candidates in your team.
Tip: How to ensure that the supplier is testing candidates?
- References from companies that have already worked with the supplier. Ask for them, review them thoroughly, and feel free to inquire about specific details.
- Ask about the vetting process. Does the IT specialist have references from previous projects? How does the supplier proceed with testing? Who does the testing, and what experience and technical knowledge do they have?
- Clarify expectations. Ensure you and your supplier have the same understanding of what a "tested specialist" means and whether your definitions of "junior" and "senior" align.
How do we do it at Systeum?
We verify that IT specialists are proficient in the key technologies required for the position. We assess their use of the right tools, methodologies, and processes. Candidate testing is handled by our HR specialists, who continuously educate themselves in IT , and if necessary, our selected IT specialists act as guarantors.
Myth #2: Relationships between external and internal employees are tense.
We’ve heard concerns that friction may arise between external and internal employees or that they may approach work differently.
It turns out that clearly defined rules for the type of work done by internal employees and the tasks assigned to external specialists can greatly help. The overall atmosphere benefits when the company decides on a consistent approach to external workers.
There are two common approaches:
- Treating external specialists the same as internal employees.
- Limiting external specialists to their project tasks. They may not participate in company-wide meetings, events, or have access to company hardware.
It is crucial to communicate these rules clearly to both internal and external workers.
Another common concern is that financial discrepancies between internal employees and outsourced specialists may cause friction. If there is a large disparity in compensation, dissatisfaction can arise. It’s advisable to set appropriate compensation for the internal team and cap the rates for outsourced specialists.
Myth #3: Outsourced specialists are expensive.
Let’s consider an example: An internal employee earns a gross salary of 100,000 CZK per month, while an outsourced specialist is paid 200,000 CZK.
At first glance, the external specialist seems expensive. However, if you consider the costs involved with an internal employee, such as contributions, vacation pay, and benefits, the total may reach around 150,000 CZK.
When looking at outsourcing as a whole, you are paying for more than just the hourly rate:
- The company saves time that would have been spent on internal recruitment and HR resources.
- The external specialist comes with the necessary technical knowledge, reducing the time needed for onboarding.
- The supplier may absorb the risk of the external specialist leaving and commit to replacing them within a set timeframe (at Systeum, this takes 2-4 weeks).
The final cost can be similar, or even lower, than that of an internal employee.
Also, the budget for outsourced specialists often comes from a different source than the salary budget for internal employees, providing additional flexibility.
How do we do it at Systeum?
We listen closely to what you are dealing with and how an outsourced specialist can specifically help. We can provide individual specialists or build an entire team, ensuring professional development and satisfaction for both the client and the IT specialist.
Myth #4: Outsourcing IT presents a security risk.
Working on projects often involves sharing sensitive data, raising concerns about misuse or leaks.
Security must be taken seriously, and prevention is key. Reputable suppliers have stringent contracts addressing security issues and are insured. Both suppliers and the IT specialists they provide are bound by these contracts, which can be adapted to meet the client’s specific security requirements.
Consider Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of Meta, as an example. He is protected by external security personnel every day, sharing sensitive information like his residence, daily plans, and current location. If Zuckerberg can trust external agents with his security, so can we trust outsourcing IT specialists with ours.
Myth #5: Outsourced specialists leave with key know-how.
For short-term projects (up to 6 months), it is realistic for an external specialist to take complete responsibility for the project. In such cases, the risk of the specialist leaving with key know-how is minimal, as they usually don’t acquire much that an internal employee wouldn’t quickly learn.
For longer projects, the best way to prevent the loss of key know-how is to ensure that it's not concentrated in a single person, whether internal or external. External specialists should be integrated into the team, allowing for shared competencies.
How do we do it at Systeum?
We work with clients who have been using our consultants for 5 years or more. By aligning client and supplier goals, we create an environment where specialists are satisfied and willing to stay long-term.
Myth #6: We waste time with outsourced IT specialists.
There’s a concern that an outsourced specialist might not quickly get up to speed with our projects and technologies.
Specialists who regularly work externally invest in their education and professional development. They can quickly adapt to new projects, knowing that it’s in their best interest to become a valuable team member as soon as possible.
Suppliers can also assist with onboarding new specialists, for instance, by offering training or having senior external specialists help new hires.
How do we do it at Systeum?
We provide an educational budget to our specialists every year, ensuring a smooth start to collaboration. In some cases, we may offer a discount for the first month or two while the specialist is getting up to speed.
And as we are almost at the end of the article we would like to quote one of our clients: "If someone sees flaws in this service, they just don’t know how to set it up properly." We fully agree and tailor the details of cooperation to the specific needs of each company and team.
Taking your IT projects to the next level
Outsourcing IT specialists can help with immediate personnel needs, specific project requirements, and long-term performance improvements. If your company is facing similar challenges, feel free to contact us. We’ll find experienced IT specialists and ensure their seamless integration into your projects.
Need to strengthen your IT team? Contact us and together we will find the best solution.
Like the option to choose from currently available IT specialists? Take advantage of our pool of free IT experts who are currently looking for a new project and choose the one you need right now.
Would you like to receive our articles regularly in your inbox? Give us your e-mail address and we’ll be happy to serve as carrier owls.
