When utilizing a field contact firm, a collector should take into consideration the factors below:

• The firm has verifiable liability and E&O Insurance to meet the requirements of your institution
• The firm's rates should make the field contact cost effective
• The firm should specialize in field contacts and have verifiable references for your review
• The thoroughness of reports and the accuracy of information gathered by the firm should meet your expectations
• The turnaround time of the completed field contact should not exceed your time constraints
• The firm has an adequate number of professional field representatives in the high volume areas you currently have a need for
• The firm should provide simple ways to communicate assignments and results through a fully automated system