As healthcare organizations continue to modernize their contingent labor strategy, Vendor Management Systems (VMS) have become a critical piece of infrastructure, particularly for complex labor categories like locum tenens and travel nursing.
But here’s the reality: not all VMS platforms are built the same. Too often, organizations assume that choosing a VMS is simply a matter of checking a box—only to realize later they’ve purchased rigid technology, poor service, and limited visibility into one of their largest spend categories.
If you’re evaluating VMS technology, doing your homework up front can save significant time, cost, and frustration down the road. Here are a few key considerations that separate best-in-class platforms from the rest.
1. Who Actually Owns and Builds the Technology?
Many VMS providers don’t actually develop or maintain their own software. Instead, they rely on third-party platforms or heavily modified legacy systems.
Why it matters:
Look for partners who own and actively develop their technology. It’s a strong indicator that the platform will continue evolving alongside your organization.
2. Is Security and Compliance a Priority—or an Afterthought?
Healthcare systems are increasingly targets for cyber threats, and contingent labor data is no exception.
At a minimum, your VMS partner should demonstrate:
If security isn’t clearly documented and validated, that’s a red flag.
3. Was the Platform Built for Your Workforce?
There’s a big difference between a system designed specifically for healthcare labor and one that’s been adapted from another industry.
Key considerations:
Technology built for your specific labor category will reduce workarounds and increase adoption.
4. Can You Actually Use the Data?
One of the biggest promises of VMS technology is visibility—but not all platforms deliver on that promise.
Ask yourself:
If reporting is clunky or limited, you’re not getting the full value of the platform.
5. How Flexible Is the System?
No two health systems operate exactly the same way. Your VMS should reflect that.
Look for:
Rigid systems often lead to internal workarounds, which reintroduce the very inefficiencies you set out to eliminate.
6. Will It Integrate with the Rest of Your Ecosystem?
Your VMS shouldn’t operate in a silo.
Seamless integration with systems like:
…is critical for reducing manual work and improving data accuracy.
If integrations are difficult or require constant maintenance, the long-term cost can outweigh the initial benefits.
7. Is This a Vendor—or a True Partner?
Technology alone won’t solve your challenges.
The best outcomes come from partners who:
Bad technology is often paired with poor service. And that combination can be costly.
A VMS is more than just a tool—it’s the foundation of your contingent labor strategy. Choosing the wrong platform can lock you into inefficiencies, limited visibility, and rising costs.
The good news? Asking the right questions upfront can quickly separate scalable, future-ready solutions from those that fall short.
Do your homework. Challenge assumptions. And make sure the technology—and the partner behind it—are built to support where your organization is headed.