Let’s face it…there are a lot of test delivery vendors in the marketplace. It can be daunting for organizations to look at all of the features and benefits that each company provides, along with the promises that they aim to keep. Words like “flexibility,” “security,” and “scale” appear freely through marketing communications, adding greater ambiguity to the decision making process. So, how can an organization be sure they are choosing the right test delivery vendor to help them take their testing to the next level?
The answer is actually simpler than you think. While every company offers some similar services, along with their corresponding benefits, there is a way to break through the clutter to make the right choice. In this piece, we will let you in on the secret to finding the right test delivery vendor. And it starts with the secret sauce.
Choose a Partner, Not a Vendor
There are millions of vendors worldwide, each offering countless products and services to help businesses. But, how many of them can truly call themselves partners? The difference isn’t just a title—it’s a level of commitment that sets true partners apart. Let’s take a closer look.
What is a Vendor?
At its core, a vendor is simply a business that sells goods or services to another business. It’s typically characterized in the following ways:
- The relationship is typically of a transactional nature with a focus on buying and delivering specific products or services.
- Vendors usually do not have a long-term strategic relationship with the buyer.
- Vendors’ primary focus is on selling.
What is a Partner?
On the other hand, a partner emphasizes collaboration to create benefits that help both companies. It’s typically characterized in the following ways:
- The relationship is often a long-term one that is strategic in nature with shared goals.
- Partners work closely together, sometimes even co-developing solutions.
- Partners’ primary focus is on growing together.
What are the Differences Between Vendors and Partners?
So what does this boil down to? Well, there are three major factors that differentiate a vendor from a partner:
- Vendors focus on selling; partners focus on mutual growth.
- Vendor relationships are transactional; partnerships are collaborative and strategic.
- Vendors are replaceable; partners are integral to business success.
Choosing a Test Delivery Partner
Now that we have distinguished between a partner and a vendor, the next step is to discuss what you should be looking for when choosing who to work with. There are three important factors to take into account to ensure that the company you select is right for you.
- Make Sure They Meet Your Needs
Test delivery is not one-size-fits-all. What works for some organizations may not necessarily work for yours. It is important to communicate your needs, including scale, security, and other factors that your specific organization is looking for to make sure that your test delivery provider can, and will, tailor solutions. Don’t just settle for an out-of-the-box solution.
- Make Sure They Will Work With You, Not Just For You
As discussed earlier, working collaboratively is the backbone of a true partnership. That’s why you should find a test delivery partner who is excited to work together on solutions that will take your certification programs to new heights. The lines of communication should always be open.
- Make Sure You Aren’t Just a Number
Your certification program is important to you. So, be careful not to choose a company that doesn’t share that same sense of enthusiasm. You don’t want to be the 27th most important client and, therefore, treated differently than other programs. It is crucial to find a partner who will treat you like you are their most important client regardless of size and provide you with the support your program deserves.
Forming a True Partnership
At Kryterion, we know how important it is to be a partner for our clients rather than just a vendor. We treat each and every client with the respect and collaboration that they deserve. Let’s talk more about how we will work alongside your organization as a true partner.
About Kryterion Inc.
Kryterion Inc. is a global leader in innovative testing and credentialing solutions, helping organizations across various sectors develop and manage their assessments with our advanced test development platform and multi-modal delivery solutions. Established in 2001, Kryterion offers secure, integrated services and extensive support, empowering candidates to demonstrate skills and achieve success in world-class careers.
