Vendors are key to the success of almost every information technology consultant. Strong vendor relationships help good consultants excel, but a dysfunctional vendor alliance can sink even the most astute of consulting firms. Thus, vendor relationships are critical, yet their importance is often (and easily) overlooked.

So what’s a time-pressed consultant to do? This checklist from TechRepublic Premium can help. It’s a simple guide based on the lessons the author learned owning and operating their own IT consulting firm for over 16 years. Use this checklist to select the best vendors, track your satisfaction levels and maintain strong partnerships.

From the guide:

Does the vendor have a local presence?

Often, local vendors are the most responsive business partners.

Face-to-face meetings, even just over coffee, often lead to much more effective communication than email threads and long-distance phone calls.

The download comprises a 13-page PDF.

Previously priced at $99, this is now available to download for $9. Or free with Premium annual subscription: click here to find out more.