The year 2013 saw a significant increase in the number of jobs that were outsourced worldwide. According to recent reports, it was estimated that over 7 million jobs were outsourced in 2013 alone. This is a 2% increase from the previous year and highlights the growing trend of companies turning to outsourcing as a cost-effective way to streamline their operations.

Outsourcing: An Overview

Before we delve into the specific numbers for 2013, let’s first define what outsourcing is. Outsourcing refers to the practice of hiring a third-party company or individual to perform tasks that would otherwise be done in-house. This can include anything from data entry and administrative work to more complex tasks such as software development and manufacturing.

The Benefits of Outsourcing

There are several reasons why companies turn to outsourcing. One of the main benefits is cost savings. By outsourcing certain tasks, companies can reduce their overhead costs by eliminating the need for additional employees or equipment. This can also lead to increased efficiency and productivity, as the tasks being performed are often handled more efficiently by the outsourced provider.

The Top Outsourcing Destinations in 2013

Now that we have an understanding of what outsourcing is and why it’s beneficial, let’s take a look at the top destinations for outsourcing in 2013. According to recent reports, the top three countries for outsourcing in 2013 were:

1. India – With over 1.5 million jobs being outsourced in 2013, India remains the largest destination for outsourcing worldwide. The country’s large and skilled workforce, combined with its lower labor costs, make it an attractive option for companies looking to outsource certain tasks.
2. China – China saw a significant increase in outsourcing activity in 2013, with over 500,000 jobs being outsourced. The country’s growing economy and large workforce, combined with its ability to produce high-quality goods at lower costs, make it an attractive option for companies looking to outsource manufacturing and other tasks.
3. Mexico – With over 170,000 jobs being outsourced in 2013, Mexico remains a popular destination for outsourcing in North America. The country’s skilled workforce, combined with its close proximity to the United States, make it an attractive option for companies looking to outsource tasks such as software development and customer service.

Summary

In conclusion, 2013 saw a significant increase in the number of jobs that were outsourced worldwide. With India remaining the largest destination for outsourcing, China seeing a significant increase in activity, and Mexico also remaining a popular option, it’s clear that outsourcing is becoming an increasingly important part of the global economy. As companies continue to seek cost-effective ways to streamline their operations, we can expect the trend towards outsourcing to continue in the years come.