Outsourcing the Design of Structural Building Components

Abstract

As the outsourcing phenomenon spreads to the structural building components industry, there are exciting possibilities ahead for component manufacturers. Along with these possibilities come tough management decisions, regarding if, when and how to capitalize on this opportunity. This opportunity is presented at a unique time when the industry is at historic lows. Tapping into an increasingly broad technical workforce in India may be a way to overcome domestic issues which hamper profitability. This project contains an examination of the tasks associated with the design of structural building components. These tasks are evaluated to determine the feasibility of outsourcing any or all “core competencies” to a consultant which employs design technicians working in India. The conclusion establishes a rationale for the recommendation to keep component design work stateside.