The document provides an overview of outsourcing, including definitions, reasons for outsourcing, key areas that are commonly outsourced, advantages and disadvantages, types of outsourcing models, and considerations for when and what functions to outsource. It defines outsourcing as procuring services from a third party to perform activities traditionally handled internally. Common reasons for outsourcing include reducing costs, focusing on core competencies, and improving quality. Areas frequently outsourced include IT, call centers, finance/accounting, and manufacturing. The document also discusses trends toward increasing outsourcing over time.