SLASSCOM summit presents roadmap for Sri Lanka’s BPM growth
COLOMBO, SRI LANKA — The recent SLASSCOM BPM Summit outlined a strategic roadmap to establish Sri Lanka as a leading global business process management (BPM) services provider.
SLASSCOM Chairman Jehan Perinpanayagam underscored the vital role of the BPM sector in influencing Sri Lanka’s economy. Currently contributing over $500 million annually in export revenue, the rapidly expanding sector aims to position Sri Lanka as the next top outsourcing destination. It already employs 30,000 professionals, with ambitious plans for further growth.
Industry leaders emphasized Sri Lanka’s potential to help companies worldwide address escalating talent costs and attrition rates. They showcased the country as an ideal second delivery center, leveraging its high-quality yet cost-effective talent pool.
Strategies focused on capacity building by tapping into universities and school leavers. Public-private partnerships would craft unified visions to attract foreign investments. Customer excellence through innovation, integrity, and security would drive sustainability.
Addressing challenges like talent migration would be crucial. Impact sourcing and equal opportunity policies would ensure inclusive growth. Establishing ESG credentials would boost global appeal.
Meanwhile, Hariharan Padmanaban, Director of Business Development of Port City Colombo, noted the city’s ability to catalyze growth by fostering an ecosystem for collaboration and innovation. Its state-of-the-art infrastructure would draw investments, creating employment opportunities.
Other industry experts recommended a coordinated effort for branding Sri Lanka globally. Government bodies and industry associations must collaborate with private companies to showcase BPM capabilities to the world.
Sri Lanka aims to overcome regional competition by maintaining quality standards while keeping costs competitive. In an interview with Outsource Accelerator, former SLASSCOM Chairman Ashique Ali said, “Sri Lanka’s BPO industry gained more attention and government focus in recent years as it has matured as a trusted sector.”
With the right strategies, its highly skilled talent could empower the nation as a global BPM leader.
