As the song goes, UPS loves logistics. And this time of year, UPSers have to really love their job. So many packages; they work extended hours seven days a week to make it happen. Warehouses add seasonal workers. Stores open early and close late. Moms are frazzled just trying to manage. Hey, it’s Christmas!

And as much of a challenge the holidays present to all of us, nobody is “on the line” more than the big fella himself – good ol’ Santa. Think about it – he’s gotta be the ultimate outsource authority. As I shop for my five-year old this year, I can’t help but wonder how Santa’s operation fits in with Vested Outsourcing.

How he does he do it? First, he’s definitely got a clearly defined mutual Desired Outcome: Happy Children.

But jolly old Santa couldn’t do it without all of his outsourced partners. He starts out by creating collaborations with all those that have a vested interest in his success: Web sites, snail mail, Santa clones in shopping malls and television. Collectively, the world makes sure kids know Santa is listening. And then there are the parents who do the actual purchasing.   And, of course, companies like UPS just love pitching in to do their part to help out the parents.

Then there’s measurement. We’ve all seen the look on the face of the kid on Christmas morning after getting what he wanted!   It’s the happy child thing again and it’s really easy to measure.

Of course, incentives play a key role as well.

It’s important to note that incentives don’t have to just be about money. For the kids, there’s the incentive to be good all year. Parents appreciate the help they get with discipline because, “Remember, Johnny, Santa is watching…and keeping the list!” Heck, he even has a song about that. Then, of course, the children get loot.

And for Santa?  All he wants is to be loved, keep his prestigious position, and, of course, keep his long term contract intact. There’s something for everyone using this vested model!

Somehow, the belief that the holidays are filled with the loving spirit of this “jolly old elf” always endures. And, perhaps, that’s where Santa fits best with Vested Outsourcing. It works best when folks work together, in an environment of respect. The ultimate vested framework–Santa has that one down pat.

To sum up, Santa is the big picture guy who works with the entire world for a single purpose – to make kids happy.

As far as I’m concerned, Santa’s contract can be perpetually renewed. I’m a believer.

Merry Christmas to All!