Your next solution purchase - hints and tips
24/11/08 21:10
Hints and Tips When Considering Your Next Software Purchase.
David Rookwood of Dataclix summarises some of the key issues to consider in your next software or technology purchase.
You’ve realised your current systems have shortcomings. Seeking a new solution can be both daunting and exciting but whatever buying decisions you have to make, it is vital not to underestimate the significance of the implementation process. No matter how exciting the technology, you will only see true benefits from its adoption if it not only used but used well. This means your team must appreciate the benefits that will result from the time invested in implementing a new solution. Get it right and the rewards are considerable, and knowing from the outset what it is that you are trying to achieve may be the most significant success factor of all. Here are my thoughts on how to achieve this:
Drive the project from the top and make sure it is a project owned by management and all stakeholders;
Focus on the business benefits you and your service providers need to realise. Be flexible in the way you implement the features of your chosen solution;
Be prepared to make changes to your processes if your new solution offers you a better way. At the same time ensure the flexibility is there to adapt the solution to existing processes where necessary.
“Easy to use” is easy to say, but be critical and pay attention to the needs and skill levels of your users - new software solutions must avoid unnecessary screen clutter. Clarity is all and less is often best!
Use pilot projects to prototype new solutions - there will be wrinkles that need to be ironed out. Ensure you have good lines of communication with your service provider to effect speedy responses to improvement requests and suggestions from the pilot users.
Once they are satisfied, it’s time to roll out the solution to the whole team with a well planned and resourced training and support programme.
Finally, after all your hard work, make sure that access to the new solution is available to all who could benefit from it as they could provide you with a valuable resource. After all, the only way the project will be a success is if people see real benefits from using the new solution!
Ultimately, communication and collaboration are key to the successful implementation of any new solution.
David Rookwood is a specialist software solutions provider with 15 years experience in designing and implementing relational database management systems.
David Rookwood of Dataclix summarises some of the key issues to consider in your next software or technology purchase.
You’ve realised your current systems have shortcomings. Seeking a new solution can be both daunting and exciting but whatever buying decisions you have to make, it is vital not to underestimate the significance of the implementation process. No matter how exciting the technology, you will only see true benefits from its adoption if it not only used but used well. This means your team must appreciate the benefits that will result from the time invested in implementing a new solution. Get it right and the rewards are considerable, and knowing from the outset what it is that you are trying to achieve may be the most significant success factor of all. Here are my thoughts on how to achieve this:
Drive the project from the top and make sure it is a project owned by management and all stakeholders;
Focus on the business benefits you and your service providers need to realise. Be flexible in the way you implement the features of your chosen solution;
Be prepared to make changes to your processes if your new solution offers you a better way. At the same time ensure the flexibility is there to adapt the solution to existing processes where necessary.
“Easy to use” is easy to say, but be critical and pay attention to the needs and skill levels of your users - new software solutions must avoid unnecessary screen clutter. Clarity is all and less is often best!
Use pilot projects to prototype new solutions - there will be wrinkles that need to be ironed out. Ensure you have good lines of communication with your service provider to effect speedy responses to improvement requests and suggestions from the pilot users.
Once they are satisfied, it’s time to roll out the solution to the whole team with a well planned and resourced training and support programme.
Finally, after all your hard work, make sure that access to the new solution is available to all who could benefit from it as they could provide you with a valuable resource. After all, the only way the project will be a success is if people see real benefits from using the new solution!
Ultimately, communication and collaboration are key to the successful implementation of any new solution.
David Rookwood is a specialist software solutions provider with 15 years experience in designing and implementing relational database management systems.