Artificial intelligence, cloud computing and robotic process automation. These and many other disruptive technologies are significantly shaping the outsourcing industry. As leaders in the Slovak market, we bring you experts’ predictions on how the IT specialist outsourcing sector will change. 

According to Gartner’s 2021 survey, most IT executives believe that the lack of talent in the technology sector is the biggest barrier to the adoption of modern technology. The situation wasn’t any better last year – 64% of global IT leaders said they perceived a lack of experienced and skilled candidates in the market, according to MIT Technology Review Insights.

So it’s understandable that hiring verified specialists has seen exponential growth in recent years. According to Statista, the value of the IT professional outsourcing market will be more than $512bn by 2024. Four years later, that figure is expected to climb to around $778bn. Outsourcing continues to be a popular strategic solution because it can reduce costs and increase revenue for brands. In addition to saving in-house staff time and energy, it is also a source of innovative new ideas that give companies a competitive advantage.

However, the services outsourced by companies and the forms of cooperation with external specialists are changing. Low-value routine tasks that were once outsourced can now be handed over to modern technology. Companies expect strong partnerships and high-quality, knowledge-based services from IT specialists.

6 Trends That Will Shape the IT Specialist Outsourcing Industry In 2024

1. AI And ML-driven Software Development

With artificial intelligence (AI), companies can use predictive analytics to forecast market trends, customer behaviour, and operational issues. AI-driven chatbots and virtual assistants, in turn, can process a huge number of queries simultaneously, ensuring that customers get instant answers. The outsourcing sector itself is also influenced by modern technology – for example, AI runs language translation tools that facilitate global collaborations.

Machine learning (ML) technology is a subset of AI and includes software systems capable of analysing data and offering useful insights. ML is commonly used in recommendation tools, dynamic pricing, fraud and cyber threat detection, optimization or monitoring and quality assurance.

2. Emphasis on Remote Workforce

The popularity of remote working has enabled companies to increasingly tap into global talent pools to get the right mix of professional skills and a more inclusive work environment. This type of collaboration has also shifted the focus towards client-centric outsourcing models. The customers demand greater transparency, real-time communication and shared decision-making, which represents a partnership approach rather than a traditional client-supplier relationship.

The work-from-home paradigm has also prompted a greater focus on employee mental health. Companies are increasingly promoting the well-being of remote and outsourced teams to ensure permanent productivity and job satisfaction.

3. Cyber Protection

As brands increasingly rely on digital platforms, the threat of cyberattacks, data leaks and scams grows. As a result, companies are looking to upgrade their infrastructure and digital security. In addition to hiring an in-house team, they also seek outsourcing companies to secure websites, from SSL certificate configuration to DDoS and malware attack mitigation.

4. Platform-independent Application Development

Every industry requires a multi-platform app to reach the target audience, whether it is a desktop or mobile app. In 2022, the demand for cross-platform app development has grown tremendously and will continue through the third quarter of 2024. For companies aiming for a platform-independent app, .NET has become the first choice. As a result, this year will bring many prestigious projects for .NET software developers from outsourcing companies.

5. The Dominance of Cloud Computing

Cloud computing has completely changed outsourcing, especially in the IT industry. It allows teams around the world to share and access files in real-time, greatly improving communication and collaboration. In addition, it offers reliable backup and crash recovery options, ensuring business continuity and great resilience in the case of unforeseen events. Another advantage of flexible cloud services is that they can be accessed without the need to invest in extensive infrastructure changes. They often integrate new technologies, allowing outsourcing partners to use them to drive innovations and deliver more sophisticated solutions to clients.

6. The Onset of RPA

Robotic process automation (RPA) makes it easier for companies to create and use software robots that mimic human activities. They learn to handle more complex tasks that require decision-making and interaction with unstructured data. They can understand what is written on the screen, write down new information and analyse it – all without pause. Automated processes result in faster completion of outsourced tasks, higher operational efficiency and cost savings. In addition, they consistently follow the rules, minimising the risk of human error. This is particularly important in industries with strict regulatory requirements.

Reap the Benefits of Outsourcing

The above trends show that outsourcing will continue to be a strategic solution for companies in 2024, offering them greater efficiency, flexibility and lower operating costs. As competition among outsourcing partners intensifies, companies can benefit from innovative and comprehensive solutions tailored to their needs.