Forrester's Sourcing Framework For Evaluating Emerging Technologies

Most sourcing professionals would like to play a more active role in identifying and sourcing new technologies but struggle to define their role in the process. The difficulty they face is not surprising given trends like Tech Populism, which is making it more difficult for sourcing teams to track and manage all of the new technologies that business professionals use. Even when sourcing professionals identify a technology that could contribute significant business value to their organization, they face challenges related to communicating the potential benefits and risks of the technology with internal stakeholders. Rather than give up on their efforts, sourcing professionals need to bring more focus, clarity, and transparency to their emerging technology evaluations. To help, Forrester has created a framework consisting of six factors to include when considering a new technology.