Assisted sourcing can help when a buyer has only a reference image, does not know the product name or needs to look beyond an initial set of product and supplier candidates. Its output is leads for the buyer to compare, not an audited supplier list or purchase contract. Agree the goal, deliverables and fee before work begins.
Step 1: provide an actionable product brief
Supply the original image and source, intended use, critical dimensions or materials, required functions, quantity tiers, destination market, timing and budget range. Separate must-have conditions, acceptable alternatives and unknowns. Even when only appearance is known, explain the intended use. Date each changed brief so later candidates are not judged against different products.
Step 2: define the work and deliverables
State whether the assignment covers product candidates, company contact leads, a difference comparison, initial outreach or sample suggestions. Agree the expected range, file format, timing and feedback process. A lead search does not automatically include identity verification, on-site factory review, buying samples or signing a purchase contract. If inquiries are to be included, specify the candidates and quote comparison separately.
Step 3: review interim results by version
For each candidate, identify the appearance or process features that fit and those that do not. Decide whether search terms, material requirements or the budget need revision. Retain product pages, company names, search dates and differences. If no suitable candidate appears, ask whether the image evidence is weak, the brief is too restrictive or the discovered offers simply do not fit. No result should not be reported as proof that the product does not exist.
Step 4: agree fees and change conditions
An assignment may use a service fee, a transaction commission or another agreed structure. Confirm the amount or basis, payment milestone, completion condition, change process and cancellation treatment before starting. Do not substitute an assumed fixed percentage for the actual terms. Keep assisted-service fees separate from money paid to a supplier for goods; see fees and goods payments.
What remains with the buyer
Keep brief revisions, candidate lists, source links and communications. The buyer and relevant providers decide whether to sample, verify a factory, check product compliance, contract and pay. FindBao does not currently provide audits, purchasing, goods-payment handling or escrow. The service overview lists the complete boundary.