In-House Outsourcing strategy in business

Abstract

Objetive: This article carries out a bibliometric analysis and a literature review on Outsourcing/In-House which includes co-word analysis of the publications available in the Web of Science (WoS) and SCOPUS databases and its impact on other associated fields of knowledge since 1990. The key themes conceptualising it, emerging trends, and the future direction that Outsourcing/In-House will take are discussed. Methodology: The SciMAT software tool has been used which allows for the compiling of a science map in conjunction with performance analysis to identify concept subdomains in the field of research and the thematic evolution of Outsourcing/In-House. Results: Structural analysis of the scientific production under study demonstrated strong thematic cohesion concentrated in 18 specific themes. It also identified that the greatest scientific interest in and research on Outsourcing/In-House occurred between 2007 and 2015. Furthermore, it revealed evolution in the goals of this strategy, ranging from merely operational engagement to strategic realms, which has reached a striking level of maturity that persists to the present day.Limitations: The bibliographic search is limited to the two most important databases of publications which are WOS and SCOPUS. Practical implications: Highlighting the importance of this model in solving many current problems linked to efficiency and rising costs. This model underlines the evolution of the relationship framework between clients and subcontracting business.