Before buying another data tool, define what success must look like.

A polished demo is not an implementation strategy. Vendor selection should start with business-critical evidence.

Start with a decision, not a shortlist

Define the decisions the organisation needs to improve, the data that supports them and the capability gaps that cause friction. Only then assess the market.

Turn requirements into testable proof

Use 3–5 realistic use cases. Include integration with your data platform, metadata model, security constraints, business rule authoring and remediation workflows. Capture the effort and limitations, not just the pass/fail result.

Evaluate the full operating cost

Licensing, cloud consumption, integration, internal administration, training, change and vendor lock-in all affect value. A weighted matrix is useful only when the weights reflect the operating model.

Make the recommendation actionable

Close with architecture fit, evidence, trade-offs, phased roadmap, ownership and risks. A PoV is successful when it enables a better investment decision—even if the answer is not to buy.