-
Consider a phased-in or trial relationship
and insure that there is a process to end the relationship (an "out" clause).
-
Be clear on expectations, timelines and
results. Put them in writing.
-
Define limitations to avoid problems.
-
Decide the financial details up front so
that there are no surprises.
-
Include anti-compete and confidentiality
clauses in the contract if that is important to you, and it usually is.
-
Make sure that you have privacy provisions
in the contract if the supplier will be handling members' personal
information.
-
Decide up-front who will own materials or
content created. Otherwise, the supplier may hold the copyright to written
material unless it is assigned to the association.
-
Make the relationship and contract a
win-win-win arrangement. If the association and the supplier win, then the
members will win as well.
-
You get what you pay for so don't try to
skimp. You will risk ending up with a skimpy result.
-
Monitor performance regularly and be alert
to members' feedback.
-
Follow up on complaints quickly and watch
for trends.
-
Be prepared to revise the contract if the
arrangement can be improved.
-
If you need help in understanding and
evaluating the technical aspects of a supplier's proposal, then get it as soon
as possible. Know your own limitations.
-
Look for better ways to do the activity.
Avoid the tendency to seek out someone who can do it exactly as you have been
doing it.
-
Try outsourcing one activity, task or
function. If it works well, try another one. If it does not work well,
determine what went wrong before you try again.
-
Start with something small before jumping
into a significant outsourcing relationship.
-
Seek a supplier who can provide a transfer
of knowledge to the association as part of the relationship.
-
Look for a customer service orientation from
potential suppliers.
-
Seek out positive outsourcing experiences
and learn from them.
