Use the following list as a guide when evaluating directory products:
Understand the categories of directory software.
Develop evaluation criteria for the following:
- Core features
- Management features
- Reliability
- Performance and scalability
- Security
- Standards compliance
- Interoperability
- Flexibility and extensibility
- Cost
- Other considerations
Conduct your evaluation and reach a decision as follows:
- Gather basic product information.
- Quiz the software vendors.
- Challenge vendors to show what they can do.
- Conduct a directory service pilot.
- Negotiate the best possible deal.