- The setupA $2.4M hard budget and a 40-week deadline; missing it costs another $600k year on the old system.
- On paper, Keystone winsA lower hourly rate, and a 38-week timeline that just fits.
- Treat claims as claimsKeystone's numbers are its own promises. Allowing for the uncertainty in them, Northbridge is the safer choice.
- Know what would change your mindThe one fact worth checking is Keystone's 38 weeks. Verify it with references and the answer can flip back, so that's where the diligence goes.
- Seal itThe CFO approves. A reviewer with family at a bidder is recused. The pack goes to the board with a fingerprint in the minutes.
Who it's for
Anyone whose decision may be challenged later, or who has to show their working.