Governance of Enterprise IT (CGEIT) Certification Practice Exam

During which phase of the Outsourcing Process Model does an enterprise publicly define its needs?

1. Engage

2. Architect

3. Regenerate

4. Operate

The correct answer is: Architect

The phase in which an enterprise publicly defines its needs is the Architect phase. This stage focuses on clear communication and a detailed understanding of the enterprise’s requirements and expectations from the outsourcing relationship. During this phase, the organization identifies specific goals, objectives, and needs that the outsourcing provider will address, creating comprehensive documentation outlining these needs. Articulation of the enterprise's requirements is crucial as it guides potential service providers on how they can meet these needs, fosters transparency, and ensures that all stakeholders have a uniform understanding of what is required from the outsourcing arrangement. This step is fundamental for attracting suitable vendors who can deliver the desired outcomes. Other phases serve different purposes within the outsourcing process. The Engage phase is typically about initiating discussions and establishing relationships with potential vendors, while the Regenerate phase often focuses on reviewing and optimizing existing contracts and services. The Operate phase is where the day-to-day management of the outsourced services occurs, not primarily involving the public articulation of needs. Therefore, by understanding that defining needs is central to the Architect phase, it becomes clear why this is the correct focus in the outsourcing process.