Does it make sense to outsource your non core processes during a downturn in the economy? Of course it does and its pure economics which is more than I can say for futures markets and the salaries of brokers on the stock market.
The key is to project manage a lot of the work which is outsourced so as to keep a close eye on progress, quality and service. Also just as important is to seek references from the clients of the outsourcing company.
I have found that outsourcing is misunderstood by the SME market and this is going to change over thee next 10 years. As more and more Outsourcing brokers come into play and actually perform the project management side as consultants so the success of such projects will be felt and as such adopted.