How do I score and shortlist AI voice agent vendors?
Score each vendor on weighted criteria such as call quality, languages, latency, total cost, integrations, compliance, support and exit terms, using the same test calls for all. Cap the shortlist at three, run a pilot and choose on measured results, not on the best sales presentation.
Build a scorecard first
Without a scorecard, the vendor with the best demo wins. Decide your criteria and weights before you see any presentation, so your priorities are not rewritten by the last salesperson you met.
A sample scorecard
| Criterion | Weight | How to score it |
|---|---|---|
| Call quality in my language | 25% | Blind-rate recordings from the same script |
| Total cost per connected minute | 15% | Calculate all-in cost at expected volume |
| Latency and interruption handling | 15% | Time the gap on test calls |
| Integrations I need | 15% | Working demo with my tools |
| Compliance support | 10% | Written answers on DLT, DND, hours |
| Control and ease of use | 10% | Time to edit and launch a script |
| Support and reliability | 5% | Response during trial; uptime commitment |
| Exit terms and data | 5% | Export, ownership, lock-in |
Adjust the weights to your situation. A clinic might raise language and inbound; an e-commerce brand might raise cost and integrations.
From long list to shortlist
- 01Gather five to eight names from searches, peers and comparison pages.
- 02Remove any that lack your languages or modes, or hide pricing.
- 03Ask each the same ten written questions.
- 04Keep three that answer clearly.
- 05Pilot all three on the same list and script.
- 06Score the results and decide.
Avoid scoring traps
- —Do not score on logos and testimonials you cannot verify.
- —Do not let one flashy feature outweigh the basics.
- —Do not compare headline rates without extras.
- —Include the cost of your own time in setup.
Placing Outpero on the list
Outpero is one of several Indian options. Its published terms are no setup fee, no subscription, no lock-in, ₹5 or ₹6.8 per connected minute, seven live languages, 0.8 to 1.3 seconds on average of latency and a 99.9% uptime SLA. Prices exclude 18% GST.
Outpero publishes this page, so score it with the same discipline as the others. If it loses on your criteria, choose the vendor that wins.
Want to hear an AI voice agent handle this on a real call?
Follow-up questions
How long should vendor selection take?
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Two to four weeks is typical for a careful process: a few days for research and questions, then a two-week pilot. Rushing risks a poor choice, but dragging on costs missed leads, so set a decision date at the start.