Four cases are selected and judged to be successful, and the approaches used are described in this report. In the real world however, it is not so clear cut, and although appealing, may over simplify the decision . In practice outsourcing carries many risks and this report focuses on some of these aspects. Specifically, seven risks commonly associated with IT outsourcing are identified, and chief executives may want to consider these before embarking on an outsourcing project. The lessons learned from examination of these questions focus first on the power of data .
Raw data can be a source of potential knowledge and unexpected strategic value.
The role of the IS function is crucial in collecting and storing data that is unique to the company and the way it does business. Secondly, in order to manage knowledge, the human factor needs to be taken into account. The investment is not just in technology but in organizational and human capabilities. This report looks at knowledge management in two companies and concludes it is too important to be left to the IS function .