Central to the concept of RPO is the examination and enhancement of recruitment processes. RPO providers take ownership for all or a discrete part of an organisation's recruitment process, and take full responsibility for enhancing the output.

RPO is more than simply changing who is operating the recruitment function, and it delivers significant benefit when compared to traditional managed service, master vendor, or preferred or sole supplier relationships offered by recruitment companies.

RPO involves a comprehensive re-engineering of recruitment and resourcing within an organisation. Transformational RPO asks much more of a provider than simply the skills to manage the recruitment activity. It requires well-honed consulting practices, close teamwork, and business-driven outsourcing expertise.