Strategic outsourcing of specialized learning solutions and services such as cognitive learning and courseware development technologies are common across various business verticals. When organizations are seeking partners to develop their learning technology solutions, it is important to rethink strategies. It is essential to exercise extreme caution and undertake due diligence when outsourcing adaptive or personalized learning solutions. The search for the appropriate vendor to partner with entails more than just examining working models and balance sheets.

Consider these five aspects when you choose an outsourcing partner for your organization.


DOMAIN EXPERTISE

Knowledge of collaborative, eLearning authoring and module mapping tools
Expertise in adaptive learning platforms, instructional design, visual design, testing expertise and storyboarding
Robust content delivery solutions


EXPERIENCE

Experience in designing adaptive learning solutions
Evaluate background in learning and training
Examine sample work, client testimonials, references, and organizational profile


TOOLS

Processes and management methodologies
Well-entrenched project management policies
Requisite mechanisms and a trained team


QUALITY

Evaluate demos and work samples
Study partner’s quality assurance systems
Ensure conformity to established rules
Use of licensed copies of tools and technologies


FLEXIBILITY

Collaborate with “right-sized” partners
Corroborate partner’s ability to increase and decrease team sizes depending on the project demands
Economies of scale — ability to have the right person at the right place