Since the Industrial Revolution, companies have sought ways to increase profits through exploiting their competitive advantages, traditionally by owning and directly controlling assets themselves. However, the model of outsourcing functions to other companies has grown since the late 20th century in order to cut costs and improve productivity, though it also brings risks of lost domestic jobs and reduced quality control. While outsourcing offers economic benefits, over-reliance on it can also weaken company culture and innovation over the long-term.