IT Vendor Partnership Evaluation Checklist

Use this checklist to evaluate and strengthen your current and prospective IT vendor partnerships. Review each category with relevant stakeholders to ensure alignment, transparency, and mutual value creation.

🔍 Strategic Alignment

• Does the vendor understand your business goals?
• Are they proactive in suggesting innovation?
• Is there joint roadmap planning?

📃 Contract Flexibility

• Are SLAs clearly defined and measurable?
• Is the contract adaptable to business changes?
• Are exit terms and switching clauses transparent?

🛡️ Security and Compliance

• Has the vendor passed recent audits?
• Do they comply with NZ-specific regulations (e.g., Privacy Act)?
• Are they integrated into your incident response plan?

📊 Performance Monitoring

• Are KPIs reviewed regularly?
• Are issues addressed promptly with transparency?
• Are satisfaction metrics used alongside technical ones?

🧠 Communication and Support

• Are support lines easily accessible?
• Is there a dedicated account or technical contact?
• Are communication expectations clearly documented?

🧾 Continuous Review

• Are QBRs or strategic reviews conducted?
• Are recommendations implemented?
• Are internal teams upskilled in vendor oversight?