Outsourcing: Cases and Studies in Using Operations Research and Management Science Methods

Outsourcing has become a crucial tool for industries, societies and governments alike, making it an important area of study within Management Science (MS) and Operations Research (OR). This book focuses on the intersections of outsourcing with MS and OR, beginning each chapter with fundamental concepts and exploring the benefits, advantages, disadvantages, real-world examples, applications, theories, and potential future developments. The content spans a broad range of topics, drawing examples from both the private and public sector. The book also delves into future trends and the evolving role of outsourcing. Outsourcing is commonly employed to achieve faster results, reduce costs, distribute risk, enhance efficiency, and maintain flexibility. This book connects these aspects with MS and OR models, providing a comprehensive interface between engineering/technology and the organizational, economic, administrative, and planning strategies needed for managing outsourcing effectively. This book is intended for professionals in the fields of energy, engineering, information science, mathematics, economics, etc., and for researchers who wish to develop new skills in outsourcing, or who employ outsourcing as part of their work. As the second volume in a two-part series, it focuses on real-world cases and studies.