Abstract:

Information Systems/ Information Technology (IS/IT) outsourcing contracts vary in their expected
outcomes. Some contracts do not accomplish their set goals; on the other hand, others greatly succeed. This variation in outcomes relies not only on expertise and available resources of the IS/IT service provider, but on other factors related to the client as well. The aim of this paper is to explore the main key factors that contribute to the success of IS/IT outsourcing from the experience of some of the public and private organizations in Oman. With this aim, a questionnaire has been developed and distributed, and semi-structured interviews have been conducted with IS/IT managers in those organizations. The results show that most IS/IT arrangements are likely to succeed if the objectives are set clear, the service provider is chosen carefully, and the contract is structured properly. The success is also depends on the willingness of the two parties (the client and the service provider) to establish mutual and trusted ongoing relationship throughout the contract.