Service Partners – Tender Management in Transition

Whether it’s pure service center outsourcing or awarding to a digital service provider, the challenge remains.
Highly dynamic technical developments, rising wages, tempting relocation abroad.
At the same time, expectations of transparency, sustainability and strategic partnerships are growing.
Without putting customer satisfaction at risk.
Without a clear approach, even the first step becomes a risk of failure.
But how do you find the right outsourcing partner and what tasks should you take on?

Our consulting experience shows: A clear approach ensures success from the very beginning.

Define Clear Requirements, and Expectations
Prepare a comprehensive requirements specification that details the tender’s content and scope.
Avoid the “Coffee and Cookie” Trap
While a well-organised on-site meeting can be impressive, keep your focus on the essentials.
Establish Clear Roles and Communication Channels
Assign a responsible person from the outset and define transparent communication and escalation channels.
Retain Responsibility
Align your service department to actively manage the partnership – this is a responsibility you cannot outsource.
Four key steps to achieving your goal.

Definition of concrets
requirements

In this fundamental phase, we jointly question the goals and requirements for outsourcing. Is the organization truly ready to hand over processes to outsourcing? Are the interfaces between the service provider and the departments also defined in terms of processes? Are the questions and consequences of relocating abroad clear
and well thought out?

Result: Clear scope and realistic expectations

Execution of a
"Request for Proposal" (RFP)

The more clarity there is in the tender itself, the better the quality of the offers. Comparability must be ensured.
The provider must know exactly what is expected: content, volume and timing, management requirements, as well as the level of digitization.
A decision-making basis that is audit-proof and based on objective evaluation.

Result: Offers ready for decision

Contract Negotiations to
regulate the Partnership

Contents and framework conditions as part of the tender shorten negotiations. Proven contract templates provide security in the event of underperformance or other annoying but avoidable situations. Final and transparent price definitions based on actual operational information ensure cost efficiency. Contractual mechanisms ensure the quality of services. A clear representative model as the key to daily collaboration.

Result: Robust contract with clear conditions

Structured
Implementation phase

Tested implementation plans in the proposal phase accelerate the final rollout. Migration planning from in-house to outsourcing or between two service providers requires experience and sensitivity.
A vigilant eye throughout the process builds trust, ensures implementation, and avoids annoying rework. Intensive support in this phase prevents a short-term drop in customer satisfaction.

Result: Smooth handover and seamless start
Further interessting informations
Relevant KPIs Secure Sustainable Success

Customer satisfaction is key when outsourcing your customer service. But only those who measure it alongside process stability and cost efficiency gain a holistic view:

  • Satisfaction KPIs (NPS & Service Feedback): Measure how customers perceive the outsourced support and provide insights on where adjustments are needed.
  • Process KPIs (Time-to-First-Response & On-Time Delivery): Show how quickly and reliably inquiries are handled and whether your service levels are met.
  • Cost Efficiency KPIs (Cost Savings & ROI): Reveal whether outsourcing meets your budget goals and if the investment pays off in the long run.
Proactive Management Protects Against Surprises

With forward-looking control tools, you identify risks early and ensure consistent quality—without being caught off guard by delays or misunderstandings.

  • Clear Role Allocation:
    A designated internal contact ensures a structured process, fast decisions, and uninterrupted workflows.
  • Define Escalation Criteria: Before the project starts, exclusion points are set that trigger immediate action if exceeded.
  • Regular Milestones and Status Updates:
    Weekly info calls and detailed review meetings keep everyone aligned and foster constructive exchange.