Using and managing outsourced offshore staff can be challenging without the use of business process outsourcing companies (BPO companies). Business process outsourcing companies play a critical role in the global economy and business world. Taking advantage of labor talent around the world is of even greater importance in this day and age. The management of offshore staff is imperative if they are to become an asset to your company.

There has always been international trade; this we know. But in the global economy of today, outsourcing internationally and making use of technology to create virtual offices that are staffed by people from several different nations at once is more and more the norm. Virtual offices and true global outsourcing save businesses tremendous amounts of money, and by increasing the reach and scope of productivity and commerce they generate more wealth on the global scale, create more jobs, and create more goods and services that reach and enhance the lives of more people than has ever been possible before.

Technology has increased to such levels it is now possible to work with staff from the other side of the world with very limited disadvantages if managed correctly. Computer prices have decreased and the availability of high speed web connections has made offshore staff accessible for all businesses. With the benefits of technology also comes the disadvantages of ensuring your offshore staff are not abusing your business. Business process outsourcing companies should be able to reduce and minimize the risks by providing tools and strategies to better manage your offshore staff.

There are at least 10 things that any BPO company that is worth its salt will do or provide for a business that seeks help with managing its offshore staff.

1. Your intellectual property (IP) and proprietary knowledge should always be protected. Ensure all documents are legal and signed by all parties concerned.

2. Screen share technologies which permit staff to see your computer screen and vice versa...this is very good for training or holding dynamic webinars.

3. Screen snap shots: Take pictures of staff Computer screens periodically, such as every five minutes; this allows real-time monitoring of work-related activity.

4. All time sheets monitored by HR departments. These time sheets need to indicate the start and end times as well as any lunch breaks offshore staff may need.

5. Internet connection status: In developing countries the Internet connection is sometimes not available all the time; you will want to know when they are having a problem.

6. Being able to have instant communication is integral when using offshore staff. Ensure your business process outsourcing company has set rules on instant chat and the amount of time staff have to get back to you.

7. Your time is precious. A BPO company should take care of payroll, personal days off (sick leave) or just someone to speak with for any problems you may encounter.

8. Programs which enable you to dictate a rank order of work, give extra notes or instructions as well as give clear deadlines for all work is essential for managing offshore staff.

9. Webcams that can be used flexibly and increase the perception of the human touch and real-time human interaction.

10. The use of a phone is essential to managing offshore staff. VoIP can be used extremely and the standard of the connection needs to be high.

BPO companies are essential in reducing your risk when using offshore staff. By using these 10 strategies and tools you will ensure working with offshore staff is almost as risk free as working with local in house staff.