What are the top 4 issues that one should research before making the HR outsourcing decision in an organization

I don't know what your book says -- but it seems to me that the top issues are:
1. Will the outsourcing provide the same or better service for the company's customers?
2. Will the outsourcing be less expensive than the same work done in-house? All costs should be considered.

This site may be helpful.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Outsourcing

To make an informed decision about HR outsourcing in an organization, there are several key issues you should research. Here are four main points to consider:

1. Service Quality: Determine if outsourcing HR functions will maintain or improve the level of service provided to the company's customers. Research the outsourcing provider's track record, reputation, and client feedback. Look for case studies or testimonials from companies in a similar industry to gauge their experience with the provider.

2. Cost Analysis: Conduct a thorough cost analysis to assess whether outsourcing HR functions will be financially beneficial. Compare the total cost of outsourcing against the expenses incurred by performing the same work in-house. Consider factors like labor costs, overhead, administrative expenses, and potential savings in technology or infrastructure.

3. Cultural Fit: Evaluate the compatibility of the outsourcing provider's values, business ethics, and overall culture with the organization's own values. Ensure that the provider can align with and understand the company's goals, objectives, and work culture. It is important that the provider can adapt seamlessly to the organization's needs and fit well within its existing structure.

4. Security and Confidentiality: Examine the outsourcing provider's data security measures and confidentiality protocols. HR functions deal with sensitive employee information, so it is crucial to ensure that the provider can maintain strict data privacy standards and protect confidential information. Research their security certifications, data breach history (if any), and their disaster recovery plans.

Keep in mind that these four points should serve as a starting point, and each organization might have specific additional factors to consider based on their unique requirements. It is always advisable to consult with relevant stakeholders, do thorough research, and potentially seek expert advice to make an informed decision.