Picking software can really be overwhelming, but we are here to help. In this article, we will break down six steps that you should follow to find the right software for your business.
Step 1: Pinpoint Your Problem
The first step of buying software is figuring out your needs and making sure they are aligned with your business goals. Ask yourself what problem you would like to solve. By doing this, you will narrow down the type of software you need. You can start with a specific, business goal-driven issue, like:
- We need employees to collaborate faster on projects.
- We need to track our inventory at multiple store locations more efficiently.
- We need to improve our communication with our clients/customers.
Step 2: Define Your Software Requirements
Though there are hundreds of software products designed to address the problem you are having, you need software that will match your business’ specific needs. Ask yourself how you want to use this software? By knowing what you want to get out of the software, you can get closer to the right choice for your business.
Step 3: Identify Options and Make Your Shortlist
The next step in finding your software involves creating a list of all the solutions that meet your needs. After creating a software list, narrow it down to a manageable shortlist of realistic options. Ideally, your list should have three to seven products on it. Consider whether the software solves the key problem and supports your business goals, if it is user-friendly, and within your budget.
Step 4: Select Your Top Choice
By now, you’ve done a lot of research and are ready to make a final selection from your list. To feel confident in your decision, ask yourself whether you trust this company with your business, and read user reviews. You can also ask the vendor to schedule demos so that you can ask questions. After that, you can contact the vendor on your list to find out the final pricing and service levels. You could try to get some training and onboarding materials as well. Once you’ve finalized your choice, you can now purchase the right software for your business.