There will always be some risk with who you hire but business process outsourcing companies are generally safe
Key takeaways:
- It is important to work with a reputable BPO company that will keep your data safe.
- There are many reasons companies choose to outsource.
- BPO organizations have a vested interest in keeping their clients’ information safe.
- A good BPO company will employ various methods to keep data safe including the use of secure software and systems, hiring a dedicated IT team, and protecting communications.
- You may retain your intellectual property rights through non-disclosure and confidentiality agreements with BPO providers.
- Make sure your BPO provider educates its workers on data management.
- Your company can boost data security by communicating your internal privacy policy with the BPO company, conducting regular security audits, and employing the rule of least usage.
Running a business inevitably involves some risk. When you hire a new person or work with a new vendor, there is always a bit of uncertainty involved. You’re giving the employee or the vendor access to company information so you want to make sure the people you’re working with are trustworthy.
Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) is no different. It is important to work with a reputable BPO organization with a proven track record of success. Almost nothing is risk-free but working with a BPO company is generally considered very safe.
A good BPO organization will protect your data and properly vet all workers. Here is why working with a reputable BPO company is safe.
Why consider BPO if there’s a risk?
Sharing company information with a third party for certain business processes can seem like an unnecessary risk. But as Forbes reports, many companies have a hard time finding skilled employees in the areas they need. BPO companies can help match organizations with skilled offshore professionals trained in specific industries and functions at a fraction of the cost of in-house employees.
How BPO companies keep your data safe
You want to be smart about the information you share with any third-party vendor, including a BPO company. However, it’s important to understand that BPO companies have a vested interest in keeping their clients’ data safe. The value of BPO lies in its ability to streamline operations and save valuable time and money for a business. Data security is essential for BPO to achieve these functions.
Some of the methods a BPO company might use to protect against security breaches include:
1. Clear data security policies
A set of straightforward policies related to data management can help put companies at ease when it comes to BPO.
2. Secure software and systems
Most security systems offer multiple layers of security and a BPO company should have the most up-to-date programs.
3. Protected communications
In addition to data security, it’s also important to make sure that information is protected when it’s sent from one person to another either within an organization or to a third party.
4. A dedicated IT team
An IT team comprised of experts can help ensure proper security and consistent workflow.
Using the above methods, BPO companies protect your data from:
- Data leaks
- Data theft
- Unauthorized data manipulation
- Cyberattacks
- Hacking
- Malware
- Phishing
Retaining your intellectual property rights
In addition to data breaches, you may also be concerned about your organization’s intellectual property. The type of business process or processes you plan to outsource will determine how much you should worry about intellectual property issues.
You’ll be able to retain your intellectual property rights through non-disclosure and confidentiality agreements. This becomes important if you’re outsourcing software development or other high-level processes but for the average small business looking to outsource basic administrative functions, intellectual property concerns are usually not high.
Other security considerations
If you’re considering BPO but still have security concerns, here are some additional factors to consider.
Education on data handling
Does your BPO provider educate their employees on how to properly manage data? If you’re working with a reputable company, the answer is yes.
Communicate your internal privacy policy
If your company has a privacy policy regarding sensitive information, you should communicate this to your BPO provider.
Conduct database and network security audits
Database and network audits can help expose vulnerabilities within your network and track the security of outsourced tasks.
Employ the rule of least usage
Before working with a BPO company, decide who will need access to what information. Only grant access to essential workers.
Secure BPO with DOXA
If you’re considering BPO, the DOXA team can provide secure and tailored solutions for all your outsourcing needs. Founded by entrepreneurs for entrepreneurs, we know there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Whether you’re starting up or scaling up, we’ll adapt our services to fit your needs. Contact us today to learn more.
