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"94% of PA's shared services survey respondents are exploring the potential for realising future savings."
Shared services centres: delivering the promise – PA's pan European research into HR and finance shared services

Shared service centres: delivering the promise – pan European research into HR and finance shared services

New survey into HR and Finance shared services

In this comparative research study, PA Consulting Group contrast the views of HR directors, finance directors and other senior executives on the creation, development and ongoing optimisation of shared service centres (SSCs). Ultimately, we found that the huge cost savings available five years ago are harder to achieve. Companies have to be bolder in finding ways to make incremental cost savings.

Aimed at those professionals involved in making shared services decisions, PA’s survey results include benchmarking data, future trends and best practice for maximising the benefits from a SSC approach.

We have compared and contrasted our findings from a 2006 research study with views from five years earlier. Analysis from the 140 European companies surveyed is grouped into four key areas:

  • The market today – 75% of businesses located their SSCs in their home country as opposed to low-cost regions such as Eastern Europe and India

  • Expectations – an overwhelming 92% of respondents said that SSCs have either met or surpassed their expectations

  • The market tomorrow – to sustain current successes, 50% are considering a hybrid mix (a combo of in-house SSCs and outsourcing)

  • Lessons learnt – seven tips from the past five years include securing management buy-in, recruiting and training the right people, and budgeting for ongoing investment.

The shift in sentiment towards greater service satisfaction (above cost reduction) has come about through the increased sophistication of the SSC offering and believing there is more that can be achieved.

To compare your experience with your peers, contact us today for a copy of the “Shared service centres: delivering the promise” survey results.