Things to Consider Before Opting for Data Entry Outsourcing

What do most businesses look for when they want to outsource a part of their activities? There may be many opinions to it, but there is a common thread running through all – and that is outsourcing. To confine administrative work, non-core activities, and data entry, outsourcing is an ideal option. This is always different between businesses.

For example, the insurance sector prefers to outsource all back-office activities, including claims and commission management, and LPOs outsource regular research and documentation tasks. However, there is a unanimous agreement amongst all businesses that data entry services are to be outsourced. This is because it requires heavy investments to set up and does not fall within the ambit of the main business activity.

Data entry processing is crucial for any business sector. The reason why one must make any decision to outsource and choose an outsourcing partner after great thought and after considering all possibilities and implications of choosing one firm over another is because of the importance of this decision.

Basically, there are no fixed criteria for carrying out this exercise, and it depends solely on the needs of the outsourcing agency. Therefore, it would be prudent to generalize and stick to the rule of thumb when analyzing the dos and don’ts of data entry outsourcing.

Do’s and Don’t of Data Entry Outsourcing

First, the do’s, that is, the positives –

1. Security:

There cannot be a more important factor than this. Ensure that the outsourced data entry services have multiple layers of security in place and that people handle the processed data on a need-to-know basis only. It is always wise to go through testimonials of existing and previous clients on this score.

2. Checks for accuracy:

Determine if the outsourced agency regularly conducts audits to assess the accuracy of the processed data and if they employ a dual keying system when a very high degree of accuracy is necessary. Choose a company that has exclusive specialists in error tracking and rectification.

3. Use of advanced software:

The company so selected should have technologically advanced security hardware and software in place. An example is the outsourced data entry services being used by reputed companies to speed up data entry processing and make sure of speed and accuracy.

Next, the don’ts, that is, the negatives –

1. Do not compromise on requirements:

Sometimes, outsourcing agencies may lag behind in the desired levels of speed and accuracy. Be critical and inflexible on these issues and insist on levels of quality set by you. In extreme cases, threaten termination of the contract.

2. Putting trust in the unknown factor:

Do not rely on an unknown and untried entity, and do not opt for an agency that relies on old business models and tries to tweak new technology on them.

3. Opting for cheap services:

Do not opt for data entry providers that come cheap but offer an inferior level of services. Since a long-term relationship is always preferable, select the best at the initial stages only, even at a higher price.

Data Entry Outsourcing is extremely important for all businesses, and hence, proper thought and care should be given to it. If you are planning to outsource your data entry and related tasks, contact us to discuss how we can help. Call us at +1 646-688-2821 or email us at [email protected].

Also Read: Security Concerns When Outsourcing Data Entry Services