Selecting an IT partner is a critical decision that can significantly impact your business. While a good vendor can propel you forward, a bad one can create headaches and hinder your progress. But how can you minimize the risks and choose a vendor who will become a true partner? The answer lies in doing your due diligence.

Taking the time to vet a potential partner — not just checking the boxes and comparing prices — is the first step in achieving a mutually beneficial partnership. Here are some key strategies:

• Leave no stone unturned. Don’t underestimate the value of thoroughly researching possible vendors. This research should go further than simply looking at their website. An IT outsourcing advisory can help you dig deeper and assess the vendor’s financial health, industry experience, and client base. You should feel like you already know a vendor when the time comes to talk with them.
• Find the right match. Consider your ideal client-size relationship. Being a large client can grant you high-level attention from a vendor, but it may also strain their resources to meet your needs. On the other hand, being a smaller client ensures they can handle your needs efficiently, but you might not receive the same level of dedicated attention. Do you want to be a big fish in a small pond or a small fish in a big pond?
• Examine their financial health. Financial statements are important, but they don’t tell the whole story. Look beyond overall figures and analyze the vendor’s growth within your market segment. For instance, a stagnant overall revenue picture might mask impressive growth in your industry — a great sign for a potential partner.
• Pursue a strong culture fit. You want a vendor whose team aligns with your company culture. During interactions with vendors, assess whether their communication style, values, and overall approach mesh well with your own. Ask yourself, “Can I trust this vendor to uphold the values that are important to my organization?”
• Check references. Don’t rely solely on what vendors tell you about themselves. Reach out to their existing clients and get their honest feedback. Understanding a vendor’s strengths and weaknesses from real-world experiences will be invaluable. A few testimonials can also reveal what you can expect from a service partner.

Choosing the right IT vendor doesn’t have to be an overwhelming task. A sourcing advisory firm can assist you in navigating the selection process with confidence. By doing your due diligence, you will enjoy the benefits of finding an IT partner that can help you grow and reach your goals.

Want to ensure an IT outsourcing vendor is the right partner for you? Visit windzr.com or contact Windsor Group, a strategic outsourcing advisory firm. Be sure to ask about Windsor Group’s industry-unique engagement model.