A Case-Based Model for Assessing the Effectiveness of Information Systems Outsourcing

Abstract

The objective of the research reported in this paper is to construct a model for assessing the effectiveness of Information Systems (IS) outsourcing. “Lack of in-house expertise” and “cost effectiveness” are widely accepted as major factors of motivation for IS outsourcing. In contrast with the decision models which are executed before an outsourcing engagement (a-priori), this effectiveness assessment model will be an a-posteriori guide which will enable clients to assess their outsourcing performance and re-evaluate their business and management strategies. Although various decision models and analytical frameworks have been proposed before, the literature is not abundant on a complete qualitative model. This paper examines the factors for outsourcing effectiveness through qualitative research conducted with multiple case studies for information systems developed for public organizations in the specific context of Turkey. A conceptual model consisting of various hypotheses is constructed and qualitatively evaluated.

Keyword:

• Information systems
• outsourcing
• qualitative research
• case study
• effectiveness
• Turkey

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Erkan Uçar

Dr. Erkan Uçar graduated from the Computer Engineering Department of Bilkent University, Ankara, Turkey, in 1990. He finished his MSc work at the same department in 1993. He got his PhD in Information Systems from the Middle East Technical University Ankara, Turkey, in 2012. He is an instructor and chairman of the Computer Technology and Information Systems Department of Bilkent University. His research interests are information systems, data structures and artificial intelligence.

Semih Bilgen

Dr. Semih Bilgen graduated from the Electrical and Electronics Engineering (EEE) Department of the Middle East Technical University (METU), Ankara, in 1973. He finished his MSc work at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in 1976 and he got his PhD in EEE from the University of Manitoba, Canada, in 1982. He is professor of EEE in METU. His research interests include information systems, software engineering and computer networking.