A right Networking / IT support vendor selection process should primarily be based on the following :
The vendor should be able analyse and consolidate the networking needs across the company and be able to consider durability, scalability, security options with the ability to take your organization into the future beyond your current and initial requirements.
Don’t try to mislead or hide facts and concerns with vendors to get a cheaper solution, better price. Never demand from vendor X++ output for the price of X, you might get it for once but will end up losing a good vendor in long run. A well-negotiated contract means that both sides are winners. Remember the vendor gets a great customer and your company gets great products and service.
It isn’t always about the lower commercials you receive, it’s also a matter of the stability, reputation, product & Service quality and strength of the vendor’s company in terms of years of standing and ability to retain customer, all this can be availed at little extra cost.
Vendors with a great success rate focus on building relationships with their customers with a non-commercial approach and solutions that are viable and lasting and not that which makes the vendor rich by pushing sales. A good vendor focuses on long-term strategies and market changes and the latest and greatest tech of today.
Finally one should also take a good look at the vendor’s financial & technical strength, customer satisfaction ratings from referral and clientele.
Most prominently, never look for one who can bring growth to your business but find one that will grow with your business.