Understand the intended result
Laser annealing creates a visible surface change through localized heating. It is different from asking for a deep engraved groove. Stainless steel and titanium applications are common subjects for process review, but the alloy name alone is not an approval. The part owner still needs to define the acceptable appearance and any functional requirements for the marked area.
Review the complete manufacturing sequence
Ask when the mark will be applied relative to cleaning, passivation, coating or assembly. Testing a loose sample before those steps may not represent the delivered component. Select sample parts with the same alloy and finish as production. Keep the marked area accessible for whatever inspection is required after subsequent operations.
Avoid an appearance-only approval
A dark mark is not evidence that corrosion performance, repeated cleaning or a regulated-device requirement has been validated. Treat those as separate customer requirements. A practical sample plan identifies who approves appearance, who evaluates performance and which records are retained. If a surface recess is explicitly required, bring that requirement back to the process selection discussion rather than calling every dark laser mark an engraving.