Read Case Study 11, about Marriott International, on page 278. As stated in question 3, Marriott chose to outsource its human relations information system.

a. List the advantages of outsourcing the HR function.

b. List the risks of outsourcing the HR function.

c. How did outsourcing HR reduce the risk in developing OneSystem?

d. Think of all of the systems and IT infrastructure that a company like Marriott has. List five or six information systems that Marriott is likely to have, and list two or three items of IT infrastructure it is likely to need. Consider your two lists as the elements of a portfolio. Explain how outsourcing can be used to balance the risk in the total portfolio. Explain the advantages and disadvantages of outsourcing to the same or different vendors.