What is an Evaluation Criteria?
Definition
Standardized requirements used to assess and compare software vendors including product capabilities, security certifications, implementation methodology, support SLAs, and pricing structure. Evaluation criteria are weighted by importance and scored consistently across all vendors for objective comparison."
Why This Matters
Defined evaluation criteria enable objective, defensible decision-making. Clear criteria provide the documentation needed to justify your selection to leadership and stakeholders—particularly when the optimal choice isn't the lowest-cost option.
Related Terms
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Essential Connections
Scoring Rubric
Vendor Management & Evaluation
A weighted framework assigning numerical scores to vendor responses across evaluation criteria.
Vendor Evaluation
Vendor Management & Evaluation
Comprehensive assessment of software vendors across product fit, security compliance, implementation capabilities, company qualifications, and total cost of ownership.
Assessment Framework
Vendor Management & Evaluation
Structured methodology for evaluating vendor capabilities using consistent criteria.
Vendor Qualification
Vendor Management & Evaluation
The process of verifying vendors meet minimum requirements for financial stability, industry experience, customer references, security certifications, and regulatory compliance before allowing RFP participation.
Product Capabilities
Software Features & Capabilities
The complete functionality a software solution provides including core features, integrations, customization options, user interface, mobile access, reporting, analytics, and API availability.
Security Certifications
Security & Compliance
Third-party validated security credentials demonstrating adherence to security standards.
Implementation Methodology
Implementation & Deployment
The vendor's structured approach to deploying software including project phases, milestones, deliverables, and success criteria.
Service Level Agreement
Pricing & Total Cost
Contractual commitments defining expected service quality including uptime guarantees, response times, resolution timeframes, and penalties for non-compliance.
Feature Requirements
Software Features & Capabilities
Specific functionality the software must provide to meet business needs including mandatory features (must-have) and desired features (nice-to-have).
Must-Have Features
Software Features & Capabilities
Non-negotiable functionality required for software consideration including core capabilities, critical integrations, and essential workflows.
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Related RFP Templates
Explore our top RFP templates - all 75 templates include questions about evaluation criteria