A discussion is provided of measures to be taken in advance before outsourcing or using contract services. The development of custom software requires a flexible outsourcing plan and implementation that ensures an effective balance of internal and external skills and shortens time to delivery. Three key phases, each with a slightly different goal, are required, but all the goals must have the common objective of efficient utilization of resources for fast progress while concurrently improving internal abilities to support longer-term organizational needs. A strong collaborative culture is required, as is the ability to maintain project control. The outsourcing partner chosen has to be a part of such interaction and must actively participate in the specific role throughout project life. The three described phases are project planning, partnering for fast ramp-up, and knowledge transfer and phase out. Planning includes definition of roles and communication plans; choosing vendors with flexibility and expertise; assurance that good and consistent communication mechanisms are in place; and the importance not only of cost, but also skill levels. Quick progress may mean use of multiple vendors while maintaining a functionally coherent unit, and will require creation and availability of issue database and shared workspaces. Project status and a list of possible or pending issues must also be maintained and made accessible. Adequate documentation of activities, as well as knowledge transfer (a requirement that has to be clearly defined during planning), have to be documented in advanced.