Vendor & processor RFP selection

Overview

That means defining functional and non-functional requirements up front (including ISO 20022, instant payments, open banking APIs and tokenisation support where they apply), mapping the realistic field of candidates, and issuing an RFI/RFP that lets vendors be compared on a like-for-like basis rather than on marketing claims.

We chair the evaluation — scoring responses, running structured demos and reference calls, and stress-testing commercial models and SLAs — and stay engaged through contract negotiation so the client's leverage isn't lost the moment a preferred vendor is named.

The result is a shortlisting and selection process our clients' boards and procurement functions can stand behind, with a documented audit trail and a contract that reflects what was actually promised during the evaluation.

What we do

• Requirements

  Defining functional and non-functional requirements up front.

• Market mapping & RFI/RFP

  Mapping the realistic field and issuing an RFI/RFP that allows a like-for-like comparison.

• Chaired evaluation

  Scoring responses, structured demos and reference calls, and stress-testing commercial models and SLAs.

• Contract negotiation

  Staying engaged so the contract reflects what was promised during evaluation.

What we select

• Core payments platforms. Payment hubs, card management and processing systems, including ISO 20022 and instant payments support.
• Processors and acquirers. Including gateway and payment method coverage, tokenisation and settlement.
• Fraud and risk engines. Real-time scoring, screening and case management.
• Open banking and API providers. Where a build, buy or partner call is needed.

Like-for-like scoring

Vendors are compared on a like-for-like basis, rather than on marketing claims:

• Requirements defined before the first demo
• Structured demos and reference calls, scored against the same criteria
• Commercial models and SLAs stress-tested
• A documented audit trail for boards and procurement

Selection draws on the vendor comparisons in our Research House.

Through to contract

We chair the evaluation and stay engaged through contract negotiation, so the client's leverage isn't lost the moment a preferred vendor is named, and the contract reflects what was promised during evaluation.

Choosing SWIFT infrastructure? See our SWIFT connectivity model advisory. Sizing the investment first? See business case & due diligence.