network capabilities. As a low-cost energy market, we’ve also worked closely with our local energy partner OG&E to conceptualize the data center concept, and to support local operations with cost planning etc.
Q: COVID-19 has caused some companies to rethink their business location strategies and look at less densely populated areas and middle-tier markets. What advantages does Oklahoma City have over other mid-size markets in attracting SSOs? JS: We have definitely seen more interest from SSO-type organizations looking to move out of high-cost locations but also looking for more flexibility. As a midsize market in the middle of the country, we offer a unique opportunity for hub-and-spoke models, which more Shared Services are considering as they rethink their service delivery models. It’s especially good for hybrid operations that want to leverage a centralized office location alongside, or as a complement to, remote workers. And Oklahoma City offers great amenities and connectivity for young people and families along with a robust business infrastructure. It’s really about overall connectivity – externally as well as internally. We’ve been very much building for the future from the start, combining a modern business environment with options for multiple lifestyle preferences, investments in transportation infrastructure, and ensuring we’re building a community for our residents at the same time as we’re building out a modern, dynamic city. We also offer incentives that support Shared Services. For example, we partnered with the State of Oklahoma to create a software / cybersecurity workforce tax credit that helps to recruit and retain these highly skilled workers in our market. This incentive works alongside other state and local incentives including the City of Oklahoma City’s Strategic Investment Program (SIP), which provides cash awards based on newly created jobs within Oklahoma City. (To qualify, Shared Services Centers must hire a minimum of 50 full-time employees and produce an annual payroll of US$1.75 million.) I think another factor in our favor is that we work closely with a number of site location and business consultants providing high levels of customer service to their clients while also matching them to opportunities for growth in our market. This focus on relationship management has provided a lot of “return customers” who become comfortable with the Oklahoma City brand and its value in the back- office / Shared Services space.
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Future of Work: How to rethink the Service Delivery Model as a result of COVID-19
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