Outsourcing the Procurement/Acquisition Function of an Operation: Is It a Good Thing or Not?

Abstract

Outsourcing of the various functions of both the commercial and government world has been occurring for years, but recently, there has been more outsourcing of the procurement/acquisition function than ever before. Although many different functions may be outsourced, the focus of this research analysis will be on outsourcing of the procurement/acquisition function. We will examine the historical reasoning behind the issue of procurement/ acquisition outsourcing, the need for outsourcing, and what drives this need for both government and corporate levels (e.g., shortage of qualified personnel/retiring baby boomers and an inability to hire quickly). The purpose of this research is to examine ways in which the acquisition leadership can improve the process of recruiting, retaining, and training new acquisition professionals into the career field. Research included scrutiny of government policies, regulations, labor laws, and newspapers citing instances of outsourcing. Research also included interviews of government representatives as well as individuals in the acquisition field who have experience with outsourcing. The outcome will enable the acquisition workforce to understand the government's need for acquisition professionals and their role in enhancing and growing the workforce within the confines that are currently present in the government workplace.