Outsourcing Model
UML Activity Diagram for Outsourcing Model
Figure 14: UML Activity Diagram for Outsourcing Model
Characteristics of the Outsourcing Model
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Number of courses | Any |
| Complexity of provision | Any |
| Number of sources | Any. Aggregation can be done by either the HEI or the agency. |
| Quality of authoring | Reasonable quality is required unless the agency is directly involved in sub-editing. |
| Data structures | Moderately well-defined data structures are required unless the agency handles primary data storage for the HEI. |
| Update frequency | Depends on service levels agreed upon by the agency and HEI. Annual updates are easiest, while more frequent updates depend on the HEI’s internal systems. |
| Audit trail | For automated services and updates, a mechanism for indicating updated records is required unless the entire dataset is updated. |
| Centralisation | The agency acts as the centralisation mechanism. It helps if the HEI aggregates data before transferring it to the agency. |
| Process capability | Process capability is outsourced to the agency. The HEI only requires a ‘performed’ level of capability, which supports the necessary work without standardisation. |
| Technical capability | Technical capability is outsourced, so the HEI only needs basic ability to provide data. |
| Organisational context | Any. An agreement to pay the agency is required. |
| Resources | Minimal. Contract management and payment to the agency are required. |
Table 6: Characteristics of the Outsourcing Model
Description of Scenario
The HEI arranges a service contract with an agency to carry out processes as specified in the agreement. Services may include data aggregation, validation, transformation, mapping, and providing outputs to internal or external third parties. The agency’s use of XCRI on behalf of the HEI enhances efficiency and cost-effectiveness. The specific details of this arrangement vary depending on the HEI’s circumstances.
Example: The Open University
The Open University sub-contracts data management to an agency (APS Ltd), which consolidates its course advertising data for web publication. Data provided by the OU is converted into XCRI as a base format for further transformation into specific formats (e.g., Access databases, spreadsheets, CSV files) for third-party data collectors. The agency also maintains third-party classifications in the OU data on behalf of the collectors.
Last Updated: Wednesday, 14 September 2011, 13:58
