The article gives an analysis of the problem of outsourcing in public management of the RF. It clarifies the definition of the term of public services; proposes concepts of public service and public service product; discusses the hypothesis that outsourcing really can help improve the performance of the state structures by attracting external resources.

Results: the resource and contact activities are most promising for outsourcing. However, outsourcing of government activities is associated with certain risks. Among the most important risks are: 1) the risk of leakage of secret information; 2) the abuse of power by an outsourcing company; 3) overpricing the services offered. The author suggests that risks be minimized through the strict regulation of the rights of parties to an outsourcing deal and constant control of the quality of cooperation.

Conclusions: not all types of public management can be outsourced and, in some cases the use of outsourcing is associated with high enough risks. However, in general, outsourcing can be considered as an effective tool for improving the quality of public service, public service products, and for this reason the role of outsourcing in government operations will be enhanced.