Start with outcomes, not demos
Set clear outcomes first: target TAT, acceptable error rate, support response expectation, and growth plan. Vendor evaluation becomes sharper when outcomes are defined upfront.
Generic demos rarely show operational truth. Ask each vendor to run your real workflow, including edge cases such as delayed analyzer data or correction handling.
Use a weighted scorecard for final selection
Create weighted criteria across workflow depth, total cost, support SLA, migration confidence, compliance controls, and analytics visibility.
Scoring reduces bias and keeps the buying decision aligned to business and quality outcomes.
Validate delivery capability, not just product claims
Ask who owns onboarding, who supports integration, and who handles escalation during high-pressure days. Product quality without delivery quality is a common failure point.
Request references from labs similar to yours in size and complexity and ask specifically about go-live stability and support responsiveness.
Negotiate terms after fit is proven
Commercial negotiation should happen after technical and operational fit are confirmed. Early discount-led decisions often create hidden cost later.
Secure written clarity on SLA, support channels, data ownership, migration scope, and pricing change policy before final sign-off.