• Service levels vary widely
• Vendors can use unexpected processes and confuse vendors
• Costs can also vary widely

Information Gathering

• Why there is the requirement for the service
• What this service replaces
• Time available for decision-making
• The value of this service in the organization

Develop Own Expertise or Buy Service

• It is the buyer's choice
• Advantages and disadvantages of each

Vendor-Related Issues

• Confidence in vendor
• Job creation considerations
• Vendor's reliability in project management

Technical Issues

• Performance and stability
• Integration in the work environment
• Safety and security considerations
• Acceptable or unacceptable processes
• Proper documentation of work completed

Implementation Methodology

• Vendor's understanding of requirements
• A comprehensive project plan
• Checkpoints to verify progress
• Managing risk levels

Support Issues

• Types of support systems
• Third-party options
• Training opportunities

Cost Considerations

• Importance of cost estimation
• How cost affects the selection process
• Balancing Quality versus Savings
• Using the "Percentage" approach
• Using the "Formula" approach

Creating a Selection Grid for Project

• Selecting the categories that matter
• Populating the categories with benefits
• How the issue of cost is treated
• The value of features and benefits
• Scoring vendor offers
• Guidelines for prioritizing the categories