Establish the current-state architecture. Map critical workflows, integrations, data boundaries and operating constraints. Confirm which systems and responsibilities are in scope before comparing products.
Specify the non-functional requirements. Agree availability, recovery, security, accessibility and maintainability expectations with the relevant owners. Document assumptions and identify where further assessment is needed.
Evaluate options consistently. Use the same requirements and evidence standards for each candidate. Record material trade-offs, dependencies and lifecycle implications so the final recommendation can be reviewed.
Resolve uncertainty through discovery. Define a focused assessment with clear questions, outputs and decision criteria. Use its findings to confirm the proposed approach before committing to a wider programme.