You got an SAP implementation coming up and you want to see if your services partner can actually handle the deal. Below I have included a check-list that will help you monitor if you are actually choosing the right people.
1. Focus on your needs first and foremost. The first step is really to go beyond “relationships” and keep the big picture in mind. Say there is a vendor that has done a lot of work for you for a number of years. Naturally since you already have a relationship, you will probably go to them without asking any questions. But is this always the right thing to do? I don’t think so. You should really try to keep that vendor honest and see who in the market can serve YOUR needs the best.
2. Go through an interview process with the practice manager. Really drill down and see if this is a company that you actually want to do business with. You know its funny to me that we actually treat consulting business as a regular “sale.” This isn’t really like buying a storage array or a couple of servers. This is a relationship that will last for years. Think about when you hired your subordinates and how much work you put into that. Treat this like an interview. You might even want to ask similar questions such as “name a time when a client changed a major specification and how you dealt with it.”
3. Check references. Actually have your representative set up a call with a trusted reference. When you speak with the past client, try to determine what really made this company different from the rest. Try to find the pains that they helped solve.
4. Review all your information and make a decision. If you are considering a SAP implementation project and you are located in the bay area, feel free to call me with any questions. I work for a global consulting company that specializes in SAP. I can be reached at 510-828-0498 or mgujral@us.fujitsu.com