Of course, there is the factor of intangibles - Are you looking for a research partner, an extension of your company or department, or a supplier? How do the companies you interview view client relationships? What is the business philosophy of the companies you talk with? Is that philosophy compatible with your own? What are the operating standards and quality control procedures? How much effort does each company put forth to answer your questions? What is their level of detail orientation? And, most importantly, are you comfortable with the people you interview?
Michael Russell
Your Independent guide to Data Acquisition