Why Grounding matters in B2B
B2B decisions depend on verifiable details. A generated answer about service scope or security requirements is more useful when a buyer can trace it to an appropriate source. Grounding focuses on that connection, rather than simply whether the response reads naturally.
How to use the concept
Compare important answer claims with the source material. Check that the source actually supports the wording, that it concerns the right product, and that its date and scope fit the question. A visible citation is a starting point for this review, not a substitute for it.
An illustrative B2B example
An assistant states that a provider supports a particular hosting arrangement and links a documentation page. The evaluator finds that the page only describes another product edition. The answer has a link, but the claim is not adequately supported for the proposed purchase.
What to watch for
A response can faithfully repeat an outdated or incorrect source. Groundedness and factual correctness therefore need separate consideration. For your own website, maintain clear version information and accurate explanations; for monitoring, record both source support and whether the business description is true.
Frequently asked questions
Is a cited answer automatically grounded?
No. The cited source must support the particular claim being made.
How does grounding relate to RAG?
RAG supplies retrieved context. Grounding concerns how the response is supported by that context or other evidence.
Related glossary terms
Further reading
Put this into practice
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