Computerworld reported last week that more people have been indicted on E-Rate fraud charges. Basically they have been accused of stealing money that was intended to help schools and libraries with technology for education.
It is important that you know your vendors. Many vendors will approach schools with proposals for solutions they say qualify for E-Rate funding. Sometimes the school or library will create an RFP (Request for Proposal) and send to potential vendors. While the technology may qualify, not all vendors are created equal. How are we to know which vendors are reputable?
- References – Ask for at least four companies or schools that this vendor has done work for. Contact these organizations and get their opinions on the quality, timliness and cost of the work. Find out about any negative interactions with the company. This would be very similar to checking references for a possible new employee.
- Research – Do your own research into the vendor. How long have they been in business? How big is the company? You are seeking information that will give you an idea of the stability and longevity of the company. You want to make sure that this vendor will be around in case there are issues following the project implementation.
- Warranty or money back guarantee – We all want a project to be done on time and within budget. We also expect the solution to work as presented. But, sometimes these things don’t happen. Does this vendor offer any warranty on their work or a money back guarantee in the event of a complete failure to deliver?
- Capability – This seems obvious, but does this company have the expertise and capability to deliver on what they are selling?
- Design – If an RFP has been developed and sent out, you should closely review the proposals that are returned by the vendors. Make sure that their solutions really fit the requirements and that extraneous items are not included. You can be assured that if they are trying to get unneeded items or work into their proposal then they are not a company you want to enter into a relationship with. You want to be able to trust your vendors.
The vast majority of vendors are reputable. Only a few are guilty of fraudulent behavior. Do you homework and you will be able to avoid the ones working to rip you off.
- Dan
Tags: Vendor Management
