Define the implementation brief
Name the workflow, systems, current failure points and decision owner. Ask the provider to separate a demonstration from a production build, including integrations, access permissions and operating responsibilities.
Delivery and access checks in the US
Confirm the contracting entity, working hours, language and data-access conditions. Agree any onsite requirement in writing. Country-level availability does not establish a local engineering team.
Require a test and recovery plan
Include normal cases, exceptions, human escalation and a way to disable the automation. Ask how changes are reviewed, who receives failure alerts and how the team will recover from an incorrect action.
Compare the total operating scope
Separate build fees from model usage, hosting, software licences, support and future changes. Ask who owns the code and documentation, and require handover and acceptance criteria before launch.