ISO 37500 – Comparing outsourcing life-cycle models

Purpose This paper aims to illustrate the value of the outsourcing life cycle, as described in several industry models, including ISO 37500. Design/methodology/approach The authors present a comparison of outsourcing life cycles to provide an overview of current practices in the global outsourcing industry. Findings Several outsourcing life cycles have been defined by industry associations such as the International Association of Outsourcing Professionals (IAOP) and the National Outsourcing Association (NOA). Academic research has created several outsourcing life cycles, notably the model from the London School of Economics (Cullen and Willcocks, 2005). Finally, commercial models have been defined, for example the Vendor and Sourcing Management model from IDC (2014). Research limitations/implications Researchers will find the overview of different life cycles useful in assessing maturity of outsourcing organizations. Practical implications Practitioners will find the detailed description of ISO 37500 and the comparative life cycles to be illustrative of different approaches to managing outsourcing transactions. Both buyers and providers will be able to compare their own life cycle to industry standards. Originality/value Little or no research has been conducted on how outsourcing life cycles contribute to effective outsourcing. This paper provides a foundation for such research.