Checklist for Comparing Data Science Vendors on Skills, Process, and Risk
This comprehensive checklist guides businesses in evaluating data science vendors by focusing on three key areas: technical skills, process management, and risk mitigation. It emphasizes assessing vendors’ team expertise, technology stacks, and proven project success, while also examining their workflows, communication practices, and adaptability to change. Effective project management frameworks like Agile or Scrum, clear milestones, and transparent reporting are highlighted as essential for timely delivery. Risk management involves ensuring data security, legal compliance (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA), clear pricing structures, and contingency plans to protect against disruptions. The guide encourages reviewing past projects, client testimonials, and certifications to verify vendor credibility and business impact. Additionally, it warns against choosing vendors solely based on cost, advocating a balanced approach that values quality and transparency. The inclusion of a vendor comparison table helps streamline decision-making. Overall, this checklist empowers organizations to make informed, risk-aware, and strategic choices when selecting data science partners, ensuring alignment with business goals and data governance standards.