Are My Tech Vendors Really Working for Me?
Vendors are meant to be partners — but too often, they act more like puppet masters, subtly pulling your organisation in directions that suit their objectives, not yours.
If you've ever felt like you're adapting your processes, tech choices, or timelines to fit a vendor's roadmap instead of advancing your own business goals — you're not alone. The truth is: most organisations are leaving value (and leverage) on the table when it comes to managing tech vendors.
Here are four ways to take control:
1. Identify Your True Strategic Vendors
Not every vendor deserves the "strategic" label. Step back and map your vendor landscape. Who is truly critical to your business outcomes? Typically, this will only be 2-3 key players — not every tool or service provider you have. Focus your energy on building deep, trusted relationships with the ones who matter most.
2. Get Involved in Their Roadmaps
Strategic vendors should welcome your input. If you're not involved in their roadmap discussions, user groups, or feedback forums, you're missing a huge opportunity. Your insights will help shape their future offerings and ensure your evolving business needs are factored in. Make sure you're more than just a "customer number" — become a partner.
3. Don't Get Squeezed at the End of the Contract
The worst vendor negotiation strategy? Leaving it until 30 days before expiry. Vendors know this — and they will use it to their advantage. The result? Inflated renewal costs, unfavourable terms, or rushed decisions. Start contract discussions early, create competitive tension if possible, and give yourself enough time to explore alternative options.
4. Consolidate and Minimise the Rest
Transactional vendors — the ones who don't care about your long-term success — should be streamlined. If you find yourself managing dozens of small, disconnected vendors, you’re burning valuable management time without much benefit. Look for ways to consolidate, standardise, and focus your efforts where it counts.
✅ Bonus: Book a Vendor Review
If you're unsure where to start, I offer a Vendor Review Service designed to uncover savings, reduce management headaches, and realign vendor performance to your business objectives.
Most clients find opportunities to save money, free up time, and improve business outcomes — often without needing to change a single system.
If you’d like to know more, reach out — I'd be happy to chat.
