While We're on the Subject of IT Contracting

I read a good article today by Marc Gibbs and Dennis Gallitano called IT Contracting I wanted to pass along. Through their advice of what to look out for and how to approach some potential pitfalls, the article provides a realistic view into the contracting process.

Several of the most important areas to give focus to in the contracting process are covered in the article I would add interfaces amongst those of high importance. Interface specifications can and should be dealt with early. One way to do this would be to take the agenda from a post-purchase interface development “kick-off” meeting, and use that agenda before signing to clarify specifications with the vendor interface group. Make the results of the call part of the Statement of Work. The vendor may not want to see the value, but this investment of a couple of hours could save you and the vendors much time, money, and frustration down the road.

There’s a sidebar, by Paul Foelsch, MBA, FHIMSS, in the article about using a checklist when working through contracts. I just wrote about contract checklists in this blog. Mr. Foelsch makes several great points.