The global IT outsourcing (ITO) industry is undergoing a major shift in 2025. The question is no longer "Can we get the contract?" but "Are we delivering real value?" According to a recent report by Growth Acceleration Partners, outsourcing companies are facing three major transitions: a shortage of highly skilled talent, the rapid integration of AI into outsourcing services, and the rise of outcome-based contracts, where value is measured by results, not hours worked.

As labor costs rise and clients demand more, ITO firms must rethink their operating models. Delivering exactly what’s asked is no longer enough. Companies now need to prove they can generate measurable value—through faster delivery, reusable solutions, and high project efficiency.

Key findings from the Growth Acceleration Partners report:

• 76% of global businesses are struggling to hire experienced developers
• 83% of company leaders say AI is now integrated into their outsourcing services
• 67% of new ITO contracts are outcome-based

This signals a clear shift: the line between "hired dev team" and "strategic solution partner" is blurring. Clients aren't just looking for code—they want partners who understand their business models, can suggest improvements, and actively contribute to the value chain.

For Vietnam, this shift brings both opportunity and challenge. Local ITO firms need to evolve from pure service providers into platform builders, integrating AI, automation, and cross-project reusability to drive efficiency and sustainable profit margins.