When choosing the right provider for your retail business management software it can be difficult to know where to start. In this article we explore some of the things you should be considering when researching and selecting software providers to ultimately find the right retail business management software to meet the specific needs of your business.
Before looking at the capability of the software, it’s worthwhile taking a step back to consider what a provider can offer your business.
For example, if an “off-the-shelf” solution will meet the needs of your business, then an international provider with a low price point could be what you’re looking for.
However, if you need more hands-on support and specific customisations for your industry and/or your business, then an Australian-based or local provider may be a better option. An Australian and/or local provider will likely be able to offer support through implementation as well as ongoing business support.
It’s important to consider this up front before you short-list providers for further research.
Then delving deeper into what each provider can offer your business, here’s a list of considerations.
Proven methodology
How well established is the software provider and specifically how long have they been providing retail business management software? The more well-established providers will have a proven methodology for the implementation of their software and for the ongoing support that they provide their clients. These providers will be able to share case studies for other retailers, preferably in a similar industry, with proven results. Essentially they are the provider’s success stories and you should always ask about past successes.
Proactive risk management
Does the provider have a proactive approach to risk management and does this approach allow for flexibility? It’s important to have a process for identifying any potential issues early on in the process of implementing new retail business management software. This allows for a measured and proactive resolution as opposed to a reactive, knee-jerk response or a “band-aid” solution.
Project management
Implementing new retail business management software becomes a project in itself and effective project management is essential. Ask potential providers about their project management approach for implementation and understand how they will work with you to minimise disruption for your operations and your team.
Communication
You will get a handle on this one fairly quickly but make sure that any potential provider of retail business management software effectively communicates with your business. This goes further than picking up the phone when you call and responding to emails but do they ask the right questions? Do they seek information that will help them to provide the best solution for your business?
Experience
Not only will you want to look for a provider that is well established but you will also want to ensure that the team members you will be dealing with are experienced, ideally in your industry. Understand what experience they can bring to the table to help grow your business in the long-term.
Longevity
Think long-term. Think 5 or 10 years down the track rather than looking for a provider and a retail business management software solution that only meets your current and short-term business needs. Switching providers down the track will be disruptive and can be expensive too.
Get further information on Foresiight’s retail business management software ProfiitPlus.