This document discusses outsourcing and provides an overview of key considerations for outsourcing decisions. It defines outsourcing as transferring work to outside suppliers to reduce costs. Common motivations for outsourcing include cost savings, accessing new skills and technologies, and focusing internally on core functions. However, risks include hidden costs, loss of control, and quality problems with outsourced work. When deciding whether to outsource, organizations should evaluate strategic, cost, functional, and environmental factors to help ensure outsourcing provides benefits without introducing undue risks.