Questions to ask a 360 vendor

1.Will I own the data collected during my 360-degree feedback survey?
Some vendors will try to claim ownership of the data and charge you any time you access it.
2.What will be the costs of my 360-degree feedback project?
The costs of your project should be predictable. Be cautious of vendors who provide a low initial bid, but reserve the option to charge you for line items such as unexpected changes, adding participants and such.
3.How are changes handled?
No 360 feedback process proceeds without unexpected events such as changes in deadlines or participants. Look for a 360 vendor who can adapt to those changes and can make the changes quickly and effectively without losing control of costs.
4.What controls and access will I be granted?
Your 360-degree feedback vendor should be a partner, working with you to see the project to successful completion. A quality vendor will provide you with all of the information and access you request. You should look for admin tools that allow you to check on project status, communicate with participants, and make necessary mid-process changes.
5.What am I paying for?
What additional costs could I see? You have a right to know exactly what is and is not covered in the cost of your 360. Your vendor should provide you with detailed costs for any line-item fees that you may incur so your final price is not a surprise.
6.What is included in my 360 reports?
Ask your vendor to show you a sample report. The data should be easy to understand. Reports should provide an almost instant big picture presentation of results yet still provide all the details to help participants drill down to understand the real issues. Look for reports that present information clearly without trying to force too much information in a small area. Avoid vendors whose reports provide too little information.
7.How will my costs change for future 360 projects?
Your costs should go down over time. When you contract with a 360 vendor, ask how costs will change in the future. Will costs decrease as you use a survey more than once? Will you have access to software and technology upgrades without increased cost?
8.Who at your company will work with me on my project?
Having one point of contact with your survey vendor is critical. One person needs to be accountable to you for completion of the whole project. You need the security of knowing who will be resolving any of your concerns and communicating with you about the status of your project.

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