The IT Procurement Playbook: How to Evaluate and Select Technology Vendors

Technology vendor selection decisions have a decade-long impact on your organisation. A poorly selected core system can cost tens of millions to replace. Yet most organisations approach the decision with an RFP, a product demo, and a reference call — a process that is systematically biased toward incumbent vendors and impressive presentations.

The Proof of Concept Before the Contract

For any technology investment above £100K, require a paid proof of concept before signing. A PoC reveals integration complexity, performance characteristics, and team usability in ways that no demo or reference call can replicate.