IT Due Diligence

Due to the ever increasing dependence upon IT systems, the selection of a new system or service is often a business critical decision. Selection of an inappropriate product or supplier can seriously affect the operational efficiency of an organisation.

There are several reasons why an incorrect choice can be made:

  • Insufficient research on the proposed supplier or the system
  • Lack of internal market knowledge to undertake effective research
  • The requirements for the system or service are poorly defined
  • Contractual terms and conditions are not fully understood or negotiated
  • The supplier is exceptionally good at selling!

So what is the solution? CCL’s IT Due Diligence Methodology

CCL has devised a methodology whereby we can assist clients in avoiding the common pitfalls in any IT selection process. This applies equally well to the purchase of software, hardware and other items of IT infrastructure, or the procurement of services including implementation/training, software development and the outsourcing of IT.

Key elements of the methodology include:

  • Using our internal market knowledge base to identify risks in both potential supplier and potential systems
  • Ensuring that specifications for the system/service are precise and non-ambiguous
  • Review of supplier contracts to highlight any ‘hidden’ issues
  • Creation of thorough, client driven demonstration scripts
  • Ensuring that a ‘scientific’ set of evaluation criteria is defined and adhered to

The proven CCL-ITTM methodology has been employed by numerous clients who found the service invaluable in either ratifying an internal IT system proposal or in highlighting hidden ‘risks’ arising from the decision making process.