Smartsourcing: Not only the domain of start-ups

I spent 18 years working in corporate Australia, as part of the global Coca-Cola System. From my perspective, the system worked well because the two players focused on their strengths:

1. Coca-Cola Company: marketing

2. Coca-Cola Bottling Partners: manufacturing, sales and distribution

As in all relationships, it is never that black and white, however in the main they got it right.

Leveraging this experience, I started my own company in July 2011 and since then worked with global companies, SMEs and start-ups. One thing that stands out to me is the inability of people to focus on their core, while allowing others to do the mechanics.

What do I mean? Well, when you are a start-up you have to do it all. In my case, no longer did I have the teams of people supporting me. To grow the business I needed leverage and I turned to smartsourcing. My definition of smartsourcing? Tasks completed for you by experts in their field – no matter where they reside.

Some examples are graphic design, consulting, virtual assistants, legal… the list just goes on and on.

When I was in corporate I would never have thought to tap into a global pool of experts. I had not thought to use marketplaces like oDesk, Elance, Freelancer and Clarity.

Like most change, there are some teething issues and I would recommend you seek guidance from someone who has experience in this area. Another option is to test some small jobs yourself and learn from experience.

Some people see this as selling out – taking work away from Australian jobs. I can see their point, however, if Australians are focusing on their core – what generates greater outcomes for all Australians – then I believe as a country we can prosper.

Having worked on both sides – corporate and start-up – I see tangible benefits of having a smartsourcing plan.