A Look at Why Many Companies Are Choosing to Outsource I f one were to ask CEOs of major corporations the importance of workforce training, most, if not all, would agree it is essential to the success of their companies' business objectives. Most would also agree that employees and their industry knowledge hold the key to a successful company and its overall growth. To advance employee knowledge, many corporations spend millions in training every year.    Workforce training develops employees so they may be more effective in their jobs and grow in their careers. It also gives companies a competitive advantage as their employees gain credentials and knowledge of an industry. How this training is implemented is being analyzed more and more as companies are finding outsourcing as an alternative to in- house programs.    Training Process Outsourcing has become a popular phrase in the corporate training world. Rather than depending on traditional in- house processes, outsourcing is giving companies unprecedented advantages. Although companies have been outsourcing portions of their training processes for years, the difference now is that companies are finding more expert suppliers available with in- depth knowledge, allowing them to cater to their individual needs. From leadership development to orientation training, companies are relying on outside experts as a cost- effective and time- saving alternative.    Companies like The Holland Group, a human resources and process management company, provide several outsourcing alternatives for companies, including training. Jim Holland, President and CEO says, "Companies can now trust experts in the training and human resources fields to execute their goals in a timely manner while improving quality in their training programs."    Those leery of outsourcing their training may feel a supplier would somewhat impose on their processes and make unwanted changes if they were to be brought into their element. Others question the confidentiality issue of company programs and processes. But these skeptics are finding this to be quite the opposite as they research companies who choose to rely on a reputable, outsourced expert.    "It is important for companies to look for a partner they can trust when choosing an outsourced provider," says Holland. "The provider should also be able to clearly understand the company's training and business objectives. The goal, whether it be changing, fine- tuning or developing a process should be established immediately." Jim Holland, President and CEO, The Holland Group    Most companies choosing the outsource alternative are looking to reduce costs, focus on core competencies, gain access to updated training methodologies and execute a quicker implementation. They want improved training programs and bottom- line results that are not necessarily seen using their current processes.    As some companies realize the major costs involved in an in- house training program, reducing this cost is a top reason companies choose to outsource. Hiring instructors, buying updated methodologies and the time involved in writing new processes are just a few costs involved in choosing not to outsource. Outsourced suppliers are able to cut these costs drastically by supplying these many resources, allowing companies time to focus on core processes.    While workforce training in companies continues to grow yearly, new products, programs and methodologies are also being introduced. To keep a competitive advantage, companies are constantly eager to purchase, learn and train employees on these new processes. They are finding that outsourced experts have the materials and knowledge of up- to- date training processes which not only saves companies time, but also extensive costs.    Another major reason companies are choosing to outsource is so they may focus on core competencies. Whether an outsourced supplier takes some or all of the process, this frees a company's employees and resources so they may concentrate their efforts in other areas.    Companies are also looking for quicker implementation of their training needs. By depending on in- house training models, companies spend countless hours building and implementing training fundamentals. Many do not have the staff necessary to devote full attention to training needs, thus stretching timeframes drastically. Because of this, many companies rely on the speed of execution with outsourced suppliers. They are able to assess a company's goals, plan, and execute giving the project their full attention.    Workforce training will always be a major factor for companies looking to grow internally and externally. For some companies, the in- house training model is ideal for their organization. Others find the alternative, Training Process Outsourcing, an opportunity to save costs, focus on core competencies, gain access to updated training methodologies, and a quicker implementation. Jim Holland says, "Transferring the management and execution of one or more training processes to an outsourcing provider is an innovative way for companies to execute their training needs in a timely, cost- effective manner." Whether companies choose in- house or outsourcing, workforce training's growth will continue in years to come as companies continue to realize its extreme importance. - Emily Bishop, The Holland Group