In my experience, it’s the “Tuner” that counts. Can you talk to them on a level you “both” understand?
Additionally, Is there a community site that supports the proposed system? Just observing the chatter on these boards can bring a wealth of information to discuss with your tuner. Does the maker have really solid tech support?
I’ve considerable experience tuning OEM systems in racing; however, I turned the entire tune project over to a new (to me) tuner. Why, my new system is a stand-alone AEM Infinity. I could have installed the system and worked from a base MAP and tuned up to what I think the engine needs. However, the modest sum I invested in the “tuner” was the best money spent. He knows the product, how it works, the system strategies employed.
Additionally, this wasn’t a plug & play system as I need to build the harness for my car. I also wanted boost control strategies, as well as engine cooling strategies.
Well meaning people will encourage you to spend a lot on hardware. Determine (realistically) how many stand-alone capabilities you will really need. How many channels to log. Traction control? I could have spent more on hardware; however, it just wasn’t necessary for my application. I put (a modest) amount of money into the tuner instead.