Over the years, a growing number of companies from every corner of the world are considering and exploring the outsourcing strategy. In the midst of a global economic slump, outsourcing has become a miracle pill for many ailing industries. But before you decide to outsource your business processes, it is important to remember that while there may have been some gleaming success stories, there are also inbuilt risks that comes with it. To be able to get the most of your investment in outsourcing service, it is important that a mitigation strategy is prepared to ensure sustainable growth and profitability.
One key factor that needs to be carefully handled is the security of your company’s information to prevent misuse and free flow. Among the most important issues that you should be aware of include the following:
Compliance to regulations
Intellectual property agreement
Privacy
Internal Misuse of information
Industrial espionage
Other related It concerns
To be able to secure effective security methods, it is very important that the service provider can guarantee availability, integrity as well as having a robust monitoring and compliance system. Security should be consistently enforced to prevent oversight as well as raise better awareness. But keep in mind that information security is not a destination but a journey. There are no instant solutions here. You need to also be well aware that information security is not just a technical concern but a long term solution that involves people, governance and technology.
People:
Frisking of personnel during entry and exit
Regular training on security procedures and policies
Authentication by means of designated password and user ID
Background check for all employees
Non-disclosure agreement between company and employees
Governance encompasses:
Established business goals and realistic expectations
Appropriate provision backup facilities
Security architecture for disaster recovery, continuity and business process workarounds
Regular auditing on both electronic and physical processes
The commitment of the top management
Regular training on active policies and procedures
Technology includes:
Use of firewalls, restrictions, access protocols to workstations, network and other equipment
Data encryption and application-specific security measures
Restricted access to certain websites and compulsory logging on all entries
Restriction on removable storage mediums which includes USB, CD-ROM and floppy drives
Power on passwords to effectively ensure boot protection
Round the clock monitoring via CCTV camera
