Hiring external talent through an MSP model is a strategic choice. Organisations want certainty: not to overpay, but also not to compromise on quality. Market-conform rates are crucial in this. They ensure transparency, cost control, and a fair price for good professionals.
However, determining the correct rates is not easy. The labour market is constantly evolving, with fluctuations in demand, supply, and regulations. Therefore, rate management within MSP services requires more than just price comparison; it demands data-driven management, smart processes, and close collaboration.
Data-driven rate setting as a foundation
A good rate strategy starts with facts, not feelings. With a benchmark database of over 100,000 agreements and 4,800 job titles, an accurate rate estimate can be made for each request. Minimum, maximum, and average rates are revealed, including the number of underlying agreements. This creates an objective basis for negotiations and decision-making.
Rate management takes place on three levels: strategic, tactical, and operational.
- Strategically, an annual rate norm is established, based on internal data, external validation, and market comparison.
- Tactically, trends such as economic developments or legislative changes are tracked.
- Operationally, offer rates are monitored in real time enabling immediate adjustments in case of deviations.
This layered approach prevents surprises and ensures that rates remain aligned with the current market situation.
From analysis to action
When a request deviates from the guideline rate, the content is actively reviewed. What does the role really require, and what is the right price for it? An example: a request with a rate of €125 per hour is adjusted to €115 after analysis, without compromising on quality. This can result in a saving of more than €16,500 per assignment. It's not just about saving blindly, but about optimising consciously. By making smart use of data and dialogue, we can procure competitively and attract the right professionals.
Transparency is the key to sustainable collaboration. Deviating rates are carefully recorded in the VMS, so reports remain reliable and evaluations can take place properly. Suppliers are informed in a timely manner and actively involved in the process.
Clarity is also important for freelancers. For network or direct candidates, it is always agreed whether a rate deviation is acceptable. This way, the collaboration remains fair, open and based on trust.
Results that underpin quality
This approach proves that sharp purchasing and high quality can indeed go hand in hand. With a supply reliability of 98.5% and a placement rate of 87%, we demonstrate that market conformity does not have to come at the expense of results. On the contrary: it strengthens the collaboration between clients, suppliers, and professionals.
Market-conform rates are not an end in themselves, but a means to maintain control over both costs and quality. By cleverly combining data, processes, and collaboration, a pricing policy is established that is transparent, fair, and effective. This way, organisations keep control over their hiring costs, without compromising the quality or continuity of their flexible workforce. And that is precisely what successful MSP service delivery is all about.