High quality work, promptness of action and reputation in the marketplace are the three key factors when it comes to choosing a service provider, according to a survey by Harten Group, the provider of interim management, technical consultancy and permanent recruitment services to the pharmaceutical and biotech sectors.

The survey found that 68% of respondents said they used service providers (or outsourced specific functions) within their organisations, for them the key criteria were quality of work, speed to act and deliver, and reputation of the company.

The main reasons to stay with the same service provider were the success of the last project, the option to work with the same individual or team and their knowledge of the company’s working procedures.