Tuesday, 17 December 2013

The Koan of Business Process Outsourcing

In the Zen Buddhist tradition, a koan is a paradoxical anecdote or riddle used to provoke enlightenment. The word is Japanese in origin and literally means “matter for public thought.” The purpose of a koan is not necessarily to arrive at an answer. Instead, it should inspire mindful introspection.

For a business process outsourcing company, introspection is important and the answers matter. The processor must fully understand itself and the business it has partnered with, constantly evaluating the efficiency of all processes.

Some BPO koans for a company to consider:

Is your BPO one with your industry?

A business process outsourcing company should be knowledgeable about your industry. So knowledgeable, in fact, that it feels like a seamless extension of your own operations. It’s not enough for the BPO provider to know how to operate on its own end. Each industry has specific needs and its own methodology. Whether it’s financial services, utilities, insurance, telecommunications, manufacturing, healthcare, or the public sector, the BPO provider should speak the language and understand the culture. This oneness only happens with years of experience.

Is your BPO able to stand in your place?

A BPO provider operates as your agent. In contract terms, your business is giving “apparent authority.” Not only that, your business is also placing a bit of your brand in the hands of the BPO provider. Your business brand is the sum total of how everybody interacts with your business. A good processor will be cognizant of that. They’re going to do quality work because that contributes to the overall value of your brand. The concept of agency is important. You want a BPO provider able to represent you well.

Is your BPO both fast and slow?

Obviously, a company wants a BPO provider that can offer a fast turnaround. But you also want the task completed at such a high level of efficiency that each and every document is handled carefully. A company saves money when it’s done right the first time. Consistency over time yields the best results. A company needs a BPO provider that can run the marathon—as well as the 100-yard dash.

(Want to know more about the Zen of Business Process Outsourcing? Consider reading: Finding Nirvana in Accounts Payable Automation and Outsourcing)

Is your BPO centered?

Each industry has compliance issues, and every industry has sensitive material that is susceptible to audit. A BPO provider should have quality control as its central priority, to make sure every process is checked, double checked, and triple checked.

What is the sound of one hand clapping? If a tree falls in the woods, will it make a sound? How many roads must a man walk down before you can call him a man? What are the koans of your industry — the matter for public thought? For business process outsourcing, you need a BPO company that understands your industry, is able to represent you and your brand, work efficiently and effectively, and meet all compliance demands. Taking this path should lead your company to business process enlightenment.

Source:http://www.banctecbpo.com/2013/11/the-koan-of-business-process-outsourcing/

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