An analysis based on an actual client engagement in which Compass America was retained as an objective third-party advisorexamines the various activities involved in developing and implementing an effective outsourcing vendor search and evaluation. The authors describe how the evaluation team considered requirements, defined objectives and priorities, developed specifications for vendor capabilities, and reviewed vendor proposals. The team also specified and communicated client expectations for account management and governance so that the vendors could document their approach to building and maintaining a successful relationship. Each vendor signed a non-closure agreement as a condition of receiving the technical information contained in the RFP.”]