Each time there is a downturn, and this can be traced back to the last three or four downturns, we have seen a trend of companies revisiting how they operate and looking at their strategy in terms of preparation for the future. But the current downturn is unprecedented and a number of companies are asking the fundamental question: Do we “in-source” or “outsource”?

In other words, companies are thinking if they should groom talent in-house, or perhaps find a strategic partner which can architecturally design and customize the recruitment process to improve results. That is, engaging a recruitment processing outsourcing (RPO) firm to design a process which is best for a company to acquire, groom and retain talent. The challenge of acquiring and retaining the right talent has brought the HR fraternity to prominence.

Please write your thoughts on what the RPO markets future will be keeping in view the current economic meltdown.