carefully compared with the proposed AIS requirements to determine (1) if they meet all mandatory requirements and (2) how many of the desirable requirements they meet. The top vendors can be invited to demonstrate their system using company-supplied data. This measures the system’s performance and validates the vendor’s claims. Table 19-1 presents criteria that can be used to evaluate hardware. software, and vendors.
Table 19-1
Hardware, software, and Vendor Evaluation Criteria
Hardware evaluation Is the cost of the hardware reasonable, based on capabilities and features?
Can the hardware run the desired software?
Are the CPU’s processing speed and capabilities adequate for the intended use?
Are the secondary storage capabilities adequate?
Are the input and output speeds and capabilities adequate?
Does the system have adequate communication capabilities?
Is the system expandable?
Is the hardware based on the most recent technology, or on technology that is old or
soon to be out-of-date?
Is the hardware available now? If not, when?
Is the system under consideration compatible with existing hardware, software, and
Peripherals?
How do evaluations of the system’s performance compare with those of its
competitors?
What is the availability and cost of support and maintenance?
What guarantees and warranties come with the system?
Are financing arrangements available (if applicable)?
Does the package meet all mandatory specifications?
Software evaluation How well does the package meet desirable specifications?
Will program modifications be required to meet company needs?
Does the software contain adequate control capabilities?
Is the performance (speed, accuracy. reliability) adequate?
How many other companies use the software?
Are other users satisfied with the package?
Is the package well documented?
Is the software compatible with existing corporate software?
Is the software user-friendly?
Can the software be demonstrated and test driven?
Does the software have an adequate warranty?
Is the software flexible and easily maintained?
Is online inquiry of files and records possible?
Will the vendor keep the package up-to-date?
Vendor evaluation How long has the vendor been in business?
Is the vendor financially stable and secure?
How much experience does the vendor have with the hardware and
software?
How well does the vendor stand behind its products? How good is its
guarantee?
Does the vendor regularly update its products?
Does the vendor provide financing?
Will the vendor put promises in a contract?
Will the vendor supply a list of customers as references?
Does the vendor have a reputation for reliability and dependability?
Does the vendor provide hardware and software support and
maintenance?
Does the vendor provide implementation and installation support?
Does the vendor have high-quality, responsive, and experienced
personnel?
Does the vendor provide training?
How responsive and timely is vendor support?