Understand the model
Start with the role of an incentive card and the sequence from eligible Shopify purchase to program decision and customer communication. Keep proposed features separate from confirmed terms.
Prepare the merchant team
The checklist organizes objectives, eligibility, journey, operations, controls, measurement, and approval ownership so gaps become visible early.
Evaluate providers with evidence
Ask who performs each regulated and operational role, request program-specific documentation, and compare proposals using the same business assumptions.