Checking Your Vendors' References: Don't Cut Corners

Physicians and practice managers sometimes demonstrate a little too much trust when making major purchases. The vendor assures you that its product is high-quality, reliable, and easy to implement. Due diligence on your part demands that you ask for appropriate references--satisfied customers who will tell you the truth about their experiences. But you need to go further: Don't simply rely on the vendor's list of satisfied buyers. Do your best to compare "apples to apples." Find practices that are similar to your own in size, setting, and specialty.