Functionality. Does the software have the features described to support requirements? Ease of use for both end-users and initial setup and administration. Performance for different functions such as data retrieval and screen dis customer-facing situation, this will be a critical factor. Compatibility or interoperability. How well does your solution integrate products? This includes what you are using now and what you will be usi your strategic direction. Security. This includes how easy it is to set up access control for different physical robustness of methods for restricting access to information. Stability or reliability of product. Early versions of products often have bu experience a great deal of downtime and support calls; hence the saying dot zero' (Version 1.0). 7. Prospects for long-term support of the product. If the vendor company is to be taken over by a predator, will the product exist in three years' time? responsive in issuing patches and new features for the product? Is the con strategic alliances with other key vendors which will improve the product? interoperability? 8. Extensibility. Will the product grow? Are the features available to accomm Future needs? Are the features available in the initial purchase or will you 1 integrate with software from another vendor? As a rule of thumb, it is best single-source software, or use as few vendors as possible: the system will h reliability than making different modules interoperate