THE LAST THING most CIOs want to think about as they embark on a major outsourcing deal is what will happen when it ends. After all, reaching the decision to outsource some or all of an organization's IT services requires a great deal of business case analysis, transition planning and soul-searching about the best way to handle the many human issues involved. Assuming that the organization views the pending transaction as positive, or at least …showed first 75 words of 1192 total…

…showed last 75 words of 1192 total…but one that offers potential benefits to the organization in terms of cost, service levels and access to talent. Managing an outsourcing deal well is not just a matter of negotiating effectively or implementing a strong governance model. Effective outsourcing management requires a life cycle approach that includes a robust sunset strategy. Whether you are contemplating an outsourcing arrangement or are well into one now, it's never too soon to start looking for the exit.