Kable estimates that if the European public sector was to adopt shared services aggressively across mainstream functions then the market could be worth over €100bn per annum. This report explores where the opportunities lie in the major European economies.
Saving millions
The figures envisaged for the size of the shared services opportunity in the public sector can be eye-watering. Kable estimates that if the European public sector was to adopt shared services aggressively across mainstream functions such as finance, HR, procurement and ICT back-office services, then the market could be worth in the region of €120bn per annum, and the associated savings to European taxpayers worth €30bn.
Clear definition
However, even in the most advanced shared service economies, only a small proportion of the services that could be shared have taken this approach in 2007. Although we project strong growth, the opportunity within our forecast period represents only a small fraction of the long-term market potential.? On the one hand, therefore, suppliers need to be realistic about the limited near-term opportunity for outsourcing of shared services, but on the other hand, they must recognise that the broader vision of shared services is influencing buyers across a broad spectrum of activity. In analysing this market, we therefore need to be particularly clear when defining the range of activity that falls within scope. With too broad a definition we lose clarity, and set unrealistic expectations. With too narrow a definition we ignore key trends, and exclude key areas of opportunity.?
Further information and details about the report on KableDirect
Het Platform Shared Services bij de Overheid is een kenniscentrum op het terrein van intergemeentelijke samenwerking en shared services. Het Platform organiseert bijeenkomsten en ondersteunt gemeenten en andere overheden met advies, verkenningen en intervisie.