We work with clients to develop and execute the process of procuring services. This includes working collaboratively with procurement and IT to establish the extent of our role and a strict process for communications protocol.

Our clients realize that they do not have our level of experience and often procurement is delighted to have a SME that will assure their internal customer’s satisfaction. Our portfolio of engagements includes procurement of colocation, managed services, and cloud services. We have assisted clients in contracting for over $100M of these services. For clients building a data center, we have over 30 years of data center construction experience.

Our experience tells us that a two-step progression is the most efficient process and significantly reduces the time our clients’ staff must invest. An initial RFI determines vendors from a larger group who match client criteria and have availability. It also confirms project budget. We often conduct this blind so as not to expose our clients’ identity. A subsequent RFP/RFQ is distributed to fewer vendors and those who are pre-qualified and ready to respond. From there we often progress to negotiation and contract review phases.

Our Point of View

Early on, we focus on de-selecting vendors who clearly don’t fit rather than the one who fits best. Thin the herd early and you will save hours of time. Pick 8 – 10 decision criteria that really matter. Having 30 means that you are wasting time ranking criteria that won’t move the needle (have an impact on the decision). You don’t need the best data center; you need the best data center that matches your business needs.

We Work Differently

While we are interested in having long-term relationships, we do not engage in long-term contract relationships. We prefer to conduct our consulting engagements in modules with defined, fixed fee engagements that address a set of distinct issues over a relatively short period of time.

Our clients appreciate a stepped approach that allows them to define the specific needs they have for each module. As we complete a module, we have better clarity around what is best to address next.

Our clients seek independent advice to solve difficult issues. As a third-party, we are the outside voice and don’t bring organizational bias with us. Fodere’s guidance will always be aligned with your organization’s goals.