Technical checklist
- Can they explain model selection trade-offs (cost, accuracy, latency)?
- Do they have RAG, retrieval quality, and eval workflow maturity?
- Do they implement monitoring, prompt/version control, and rollback safety?
- Can they integrate with your CRM/ERP/helpdesk stack?
Delivery checklist
- Clear phased plan with timeline and owners.
- Defined KPI baseline and post-launch measurement model.
- Transparent change management and communication cadence.
- Documented handover and enablement plan.
Security and compliance checklist
- Data access controls and least-privilege architecture.
- Audit logging and incident response posture.
- PII handling and data retention controls.
- Vendor/tool risk management policy.
Commercial checklist
- Pricing clarity across pilot, rollout, and maintenance.
- Scope boundaries and change request mechanism.
- Post-launch optimization commitments.