Introduction
There are many things that can be considered shared services. Generally, however, this refers to using a service in more than one part of a group or organization. Because the service is used in multiple places, the funds for the service can come from multiple parts of the company or organization. When considering shared services for IT, it is important to know what you are looking for, and how to find it.
Problem Statement
Have you ever needed to share resources with another part of a company or organization? It can be difficult to get through the red tape. When sharing services, it is important to make sure that each person or part of the group that uses the service is actually in need of it. Whether sharing within the same building, or over multiple offices, shared services can be extremely beneficial when done correctly.
Previous Options
Since shared services have only recently gained popularity, there is not a strong precedent in the field. However, companies have started finding ways to get exactly what they need in shared services.
One thing that has worked in the past is simply ask for volunteers. If there are those in the organization that have the skills to perform well in multiple areas of the company, this is a viable option. These people will require less training, if they already work for the company. However, this could also mean taking someone out of the position that they currently are most comfortable in, and may be needed in full-time.
Finding someone for shared services from outside the company can be difficult. There are many obstacles to this. First, you have to advertise the position. This can be a long and frustrating process. After that, the time must be spent to interview candidates and select one. Once that is completed, training in all areas must be done.
On top of these issues, you may also come across logistic issues. How will the split between departments or buildings work? Is it going to be a regular switch, or will on-call work best in your situation?
There are many places that shared services could be advertised. Local newspapers, online classifieds, and even employment based websites have been used by many companies to place the right person in a shared service position.
Solution
When deciding to use shared services, you don’t want to spend all of your time advertising, searching, and interviewing potential candidates. This is where staffing services come in. With a staffing service, it becomes much easier to find and place the perfect candidate. In fact, you will find that with a staffing agency, most of the placement work is done for you. This allows you to focus your time and attention elsewhere.
There are many staffing agencies out there. When looking for someone that will work well in your company, and is able to effectively do shared service, it is important to make sure that the company you work with is knowledgeable about how shared services work, and what you need for your organization.
Get What You Need
When using a staffing service, you are able to specify what you are looking for. This allows you to get exactly what you need. No matter what skills are needed, a staffing service generally has candidates with a variety of skill sets. This allows them to find someone that will work well in all the departments in which they are needed.
Save Time, Money, and Effort
Not only will many staffing services have potential employees available, they will also advertise the position for you. This allows you to focus on other things. Interviews are taken care of by the staffing company. When they find someone that they feel is a good fit, they send them to you. This helps you cut down on going through resumes and doing interviews with people who won’t work well with your company.
Not all companies need to use shared services. However, in the IT industry, sharing services between multiple buildings or departments can help keep costs down. This can also be beneficial to the employees, as it allows them, in many cases, to work more hours. When going between multiple sites, someone who may otherwise only be able to get part-time hours may now be able to go full time.
Implementation
The first thing to do when considering shared services is to decide whether or not it will work for your organization. Is your company in need of shared services? Once it is decided that this is a good move for the company, the next step is to decide on how to move ahead. When selecting to work with a staffing agency, it is a good idea to consider your options. Finding an agency that will work with you, one that you feel confident will find you what you need, is important.
Summary
Shared services are helpful to a company and to the individuals involved. This is a great way to share resources and hours between multiple organizations, buildings, or departments. Finding the right candidate for shared services is crucial; they need to be well-versed in multiple areas. When considering shared services, a staffing agency is a great option to help you find the perfect person.
Get started today: Call (470) 395-0210 or email info@KnackTek.com.