Course Brief

In modern business organisations, IT is delivered using a range of models depending upon the size, nature of the organisation and organisational goals. In particular, many organisations are moving to a model of outsourcing their IT function, often on a global scale. This course examines a number of the managerial and planning issues for the successful running of IT in an outsourcing environment. It examines different models for managing and maintaining Information Systems and Information Technology, looking at such issues as capacity planning, cost effectiveness, managing change, and approaches that lead to successful outsourcing. In particular, it looks at the issue of outsourcing in a global environment. Within the course there will be an emphasis on how outsourcing takes place in India.   Aims: To give an in-depth knowledge and understanding of outsourcing, particularly offshoring, and how it impacts IT delivery and the implications for IT management. Specific outcomes are: To critically review the relationship management side of Outsourcing. To understand how cultural issues can impact the Outsourcing process. To understand the change management side of Outsourcing. To develop an appreciation of the business process considerations that are required to implement an Outsourcing solution. To develop an ability to evaluate different Outsourcing models and maximise the benefits from choosing a particular model. To understand the legal requirements of outsourcing in the IT environment.
  • This course is offered in 60 hours

By the end of the course students should have achieved these learning objectives:
A. Discuss the impact of cultural and social norms on information technology management.

B. Examine the use of the systems development life cycle in an outsourced environment.

C. Evaluate frameworks for managing IT, and the development of an IT system in a complex and diverse environment.

D. Critically assess ways in which to maximise the benefits from outsourcing and build relationships.

E. Evaluate the planning of, and activities arising from, procurement and outsourcing across cultures to understand how to build robust outsourcing partnerships.

F. Examine models of managing change for outsourced IT systems.

G. Appreciate the legal requirements of outsourcing in the IT environment.

1. Managing the maintenance of ongoing IT systems.

2. The planning of and activities arising from managing outsourced IT function.

3. Models for managing IT in an outsourced global environment.

4. Capacity planning and its relationship with outsourcing.

5. Managing change in an outsourced IT environment.

6. IT planning and management function in an outsourced environment.

7. Cultural Issues in developing and maintaining IT and information system in an outsourced environment.

8. Frameworks for outsourcing the IT function and the development of information systems.

9. How relationships with outsources partners can be managed to produce the most successful outcomes.

Concepts will be introduced during lecture sessions and will be supported by individual work involving problem solving exercises and discussions. Each week there will be a 1 hour lecture and a 1 hour practical session. In the lecture students will be introduced to the concepts and issues that Outsourcing raises for business. In the lab sessions students will learn how to develop solutions to a variety of real life Outsourcing scenarios.

Seminar – 30%
Group presentation on a topic related to outsourced IT function.

Essay – 70%
5000 words.
Carry out an analysis of various business functions and evaluate their potential for outsourcing, and consider the type of companies that should be considered to take on this role.

Level: Masters

Credits: 15