Sandvik breaks new ground with global HR outsourcing deal : Transformation program enables HR to focus on strategy

Purpose – Explores the reasons for, and operation of, a ten‐year HR outsourcing agreement that high‐technology engineering group Sandvik has signed with Accenture HR Services Design/methodology/approach – Draws on information provided by Accenture HR Services and Sandvik to explain why the agreement was forged and how it operates. Findings – Shows how the agreement will help Sandvik to take a more strategic approach to human‐resource management, while Accenture HR Services performs most of the administrative tasks. Argues that a more uniform, and more efficient, HR service will result. Practical implications – Reveals some of the considerations to look out for when embarking on an outsourcing deal. Originality/value – Contains useful information for large companies that are considering outsourcing some, or all, of their HR processes.