Strategies and challenges of ICT outsourcing in Academic Sectors

ICT and digital technology are rapidly reshaping how businesses are operating. The need for outsourcing and insourcing is fast getting more recognition and is being embraced across the globe. 

But while it has been so easy to outsource in other industries, it has been a little bit difficult for the Academic industry to outsource the ICT functions. This could be because in academia, it is difficult to separate ICT-which is more like a core function-from the intense use of ICT in learning, research, science and all academic functions. It is however true that the success of academia heavily depends on the efficiency and effectiveness of IT. Another reason that could slow this adoption is the lack of cost/performance accounting in the academia sector.

I'm taking this position for three reasons: one: the academic industry is not outsourcing as fast as other industries; two, although most universities could be doing it, the academic industry has other levels of learning - which have been left behind by universities; and talking of colleges, the western and eastern world has left the African and Asian continent way behind;

Some of the services in the academia that could be outsourced include;

•  Operations of computer centre
• Internet and intranet
•  The provision and regular operation of workplace systems and decentralized infrastructure
•  Security services
•  Maintenance and installation of standard software
•  Maintenance of Administration application software and
•  Supplies among others

Since the rest of the world is gaining momentum in outsourcing ICT, academia may soon welcome the move to outsource ICT due to pressure for more professionalism.

Some of the advantages that come with ICT outsourcing include the following

1.  Cost reduction
2.  Easier access to experts and specialized staff for particular functions
3.  More time to concentrate on core competencies
4.  Lower investment costs
5.  More efficient and punctual project management, among other benefits.

Some of the challenges that could face this move include the following;

Risk analysis

These are just  

1.  Less supplier loyalty.
2.  Functioning in the procurement market.
3.  Return to insourcing.
4.  Establishment of ICT management.

    

Careful consideration should be given to how the process of outsourcing will be carried out. Here is a model that could apply to the adoption of ICT outsourcing in academia sector.

Methodology

The methodology for this research will be on the basis of theoretical research and interview. Reference case studies will be mentioned in some of the institutions that have taken an early lead towards ICT outsourcing, hence the strategies and the challenges thereof.

Online journals, books, and other authoritative sites will be referenced; given the scope of this research will be limited in terms of time, space and resources.