To process and draw value from their customer databases, firms set up information systems based on informational processes which make it possible to turn data into information and knowledge for action. Technical and cognitive knowledge is necessary but difficult to master, which leads some firms to opt for outsourcing. This research draws on the study of a supermarket retailer that engaged an IT services firm specializing in the study of large commercial databases to perform all aspects of management control related to its jewelry sales activity. A value chain for the inter-organizational information process was identified, showing the importance and fragility of the subprocess of knowledge transfer between the two entities.