There are many aspects to managing a successful business incubator, and the role of incubator manager is a challenging one.  Incubator managers must balance the needs of the businesses they are incubating, the incubator's staff, the community they are part of, and the sponsors.  One of the great strengths of iDISC is its ability to bring together practical tips from people running incubators, as up-to-date reference and support tools for their peers.

This article sets out a simple process for outsourcing administrative activities that, if done well by an outside provider, will free up the staff of the incubator to focus on tenant needs.

Outsourcing is the transfer to an external service provider of the day-to-day operation and management of a business process. The customer receives a service that performs a distinct function that fits into their overall business operations. Many reasons exist to engage in outsourcing, it often makes good business sense and is more cost effective to outsource some services. When to outsource will depend on the severity of existing problems or challenges, as well as the availability of a solution.

This Guideline outlines the process of seeking, selecting and contracting services for the physical infrastructure of the incubator. In order for this process to take place properly, it is essential that the incubator manager has a database listing qualified providers of specialized services.