Why / objectives / drivers?

• Upgrade or new
• New revenue
• Reduce reference laboratory costs
• Quality of care
• Turn-around times

What type of testing?

• Haematology vs biochemistry
• Species
• Panels
• Individual analyte testing ability
• Emergency / critical care / after hours

Operator and infrastructure

• Who
• How many people
• Multi-clinic approach
• Training
• Bench space
• Utilities

Cost of consumables?

• Cost analysis prior to POC selection
• Low running cost models / high consumable usage
• Panels vs. individual tests

Analyser expectations?

• Ease of use
• Repeatability
• Reliability
• Quality control
• Ability to interface
• Replacements
• Upgrades
• Future proof
• Life expectancy

Support?

• Technical support
• Maintain current laboratory relationships
• Access to local pathologists
• Consumable lead time / shelf life
• Try before you buy

Financials?

• Set up costs
• Understand contractual expectations
• Ownership vs. consumable contracts
• Return on investment
• Time / labour costs