Demystifying Outsourcing emphasizes the importance of building partnerships with consultants and vendors to achieve results. Training managers who utilize this resource will build their confidence and strengthen their outsourcing capabilities as they navigate complex outsourced projects.

As a comprehensive toolkit, the book takes the reader step by step through an outsourced initiative. Numerous stories bring the challenges of outsourcing to light. Practical tips and tools, and worksheets on the accompanying CD can be tailored easily to any project. Topics include:

• Current trends and guiding principles in outsourcing
• A strategic sourcing decision model to help managers make wise choices about what to outsource and what to retain
• Identifying and selecting outsourcing partners
• The RFP process and contract negotiations
• Positioning consultants and vendors in the organization
• Design, delivery and program evaluation of outsourced initiatives
• Special situations such as dealing with conflict, inheriting a consultant and working with multiple consultants and vendors

Debbie Friedman is Operating Vice President at Federated Department Stores, where she heads up the Federated Leadership Institute, a training function whose mission is to strengthen the leadership capabilities of the top 1,800 executives.