Using a little-known tech firm can produce big benefits, but it requires doing your homework. Using a little-known tech supplier can produce big benefits, but it requires doing your homework1. What is your source of operating capital, and how long can you operate at current revenue levels?2. Who are your advisers?3. Do you have a product in production? 4. Who are your key employees, and how will you retain them?5. What aspect of your product cannot easily be reproduced by competitors? 6. What percentage of your users are paying customers?7. What is your product road map, and how often has it changed?8. How much are you spending on security and compliance?9. How many recurring contracts do you have (versus month-to-month subscriptions)?10. What is your exit strategy?For much more on this topic, see “The Risks and Rewards of Using Startups.” Related content BrandPost Helping the C-suite leverage their network as a business-boosting asset By Tanya O'Hara Mar 28, 2023 3 mins IT Leadership Opinion 5 hard questions every IT leader must answer Strong leadership is vital to IT success — and shouldn’t be taken for granted. Continual self-reflection is essential for knowing whether it’s time to restructure your approach to leading IT. By Thornton May Mar 28, 2023 5 mins Business IT Alignment IT Leadership Feature CIOs address the impact of hybrid work Assessing how some of the most progressive CIOs strive to provide both technological and emotional support for a dispersed workforce. By Pat Brans Mar 28, 2023 8 mins CIO Remote Work Employee Experience BrandPost Smart UPS Connectivity: what it is and why you need it By Veronica Lew Mar 27, 2023 4 mins Remote Access Podcasts Videos Resources Events SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER From our editors straight to your inbox Get started by entering your email address below. Please enter a valid email address Subscribe