In a fast-paced business world, increasing efficiency is often the center of focus in growth and development plans. When properly planned, outsourcing, also known as offshoring, plays a vital role in ensuring high productivity. There are several factors that managers should consider before deciding to outsource manufacturing or control it internally. Cost-efficiency is applicable in terms of the capability to boost profit margins, lower expenses on operational and labor costs while at the same time enriching the bottom line (Al Jazeera English 4:54). On the other hand, businesses live for their reputation as it is often scrutinized under a microscope (Al Jazeera English 9:29). Hence, the highest possible standards must be maintained for offshoring. Third, vendors should be able to meet the deadline and deliver the promised quality (Al Jazeera English 19:59-21:14). Last but most important, is the access to the domestic market of the country they source from (Al Jazeera English 1:04).
The BRIC (Brazil, Russia, India, and China) countries serve a significant function in the global business process outsourcing. Brazil is a Latin American leader in offshoring, and in comparison to other BRIC countries, it holds several advantages and disadvantages. Latin America is in proximity to the U.S. as compared to the other countries; therefore, similar time zones (Brazil is two hours ahead of the US EST), helps with uninterrupted communication (Outsourcing Choices). Proximity also insinuates fewer cultural differences. A majority of Brazilians are fluent in English. Nevertheless, compared to India and China, Brazil is lagging in sheer numbers. Identifying quality resources to outsource work in the region can be quite difficult, unlike in other countries (Outsourcing Choices). Also, Brazil is the BRIC country with the least population; therefore, it is characterized to have the smallest domestic market.
Works Cited
“Brazil: Slaves to fashion – Latin America investigates.”YouTube. 2016. Web.
Outsourcing Choices. “Outsourcing to Brazil.” Outsourcing Choices. Web.