Business process outsourcing (BPO) has grown rapidly over recent years. As technology continues to develop and businesses continue to seek out faster, cheaper and more efficient ways of doing things, so outsourcing providers evolve their offering to match.
One current trend is the increase in on-shoring. In the past organisations have outsourced some of their processes abroad, but with businesses perhaps now more mindful of data protection and confidentiality issues, many more businesses are choosing UK based companies to undertake these processes. This promotes confidence that the company being used, has to comply with the same rules and regulations as the business placing the business. This is particularly important for the legal sector where tight regulations leave little room for error, with the outsourcer responsible for any breaches made by the service provider.
One growing trend that is gaining traction amongst businesses looking to outsource is the move away from retainer-led or minimum usage services to pay-as-you-go. Although this ad hoc approach may be thought to be more expensive than traditional contract rates, the flexibility is proving popular as it allows organisations to only pay for what they need, when they need it. Indeed, the leading firms operate a pay-as-you-go approach which is no more expensive than the businesses that insist on contracts.
Requirements for out-of-hours services are also more in demand, thanks to new technology all but eliminating the traditional 9 to 5 day. Many people, especially within professional services, now work longer hours, often late into the night or at weekends. If a tight deadline requires you to work around the clock, but the necessary admin or IT support staff don't work the same hours, then unnecessary delays can be introduced. With 24/7 support now offered by a growing number of UK outsourcing service providers, it means you can call upon much needed assistance as and when you need it.
Linked to the trend of out of hours support is the growth in mobile technology that allows people to take their work everywhere. In the past the productivity of many individuals was constrained by the working hours of their support staff, but the rise of mobile apps., now allows people to communicate directly with service providers at all hours of the day and night. Of course whether that's a good thing or a bad thing is a moot point.
The introduction of mobile apps is particularly relevant to transcription service providers as it offers the client the flexibility to be able to record their notes or thoughts whilst on the move, with the transcribed file often waiting for them on their return to the office.
DictateNow provides fast, reliable and confidential digital dictation and transcription services. With over 300 experienced typists all based in the UK, they serve a wide variety of sectors, including legal services, accountancy, medical, property and the public sector.