Choose the right SME business software and your business can run like a well-oiled machine, allowing you to target your customers and growing your company.
Choose the incorrect software and you might become enslaved by an inefficient system that prevents your business from growing.
Start a List
Start by making a list of the varied SME business software applications that you need AND another list of features that you do not want for your business.
Remember that just because a feature comes standard with a system, doesn’t mean it will add extra value to your business. If you do not need it, it may confuse your team and create inefficiencies and additional work.
Everyday applications required by SME’s include :
- Cashbook
- Document Management
- Accounting
- Customer Relationship Management (CRM)
- Business Intelligence
- Reporting and Dashboards
- File Server
- Email Marketing
- Finance
- Asset Management
Cloud Computing
Do you actually need to use the clouds for your computers or is it just the most recent must-have jargon word?
Cloud computing basically means using computer programmes that are based on the Web instead of in your office.
Cloud computing can be nice if you have a distributed office or if your entire team have to be continually attached to all your systems while on the road or while working from home.
If your team work basically from one location and have a less intense need for remote access to your network you may find good old-fashioned on-site systems more trustworthy and inexpensive.
It may be less complicated than you think to set up remote access to your systems without moving everything to ‘the cloud’.
Migration
Will the software you select meet your present and future necessities?
And can it grow with your business?
One of the costliest componets of changing business software can be the cost to migrate to your new systems.
Anticipation is great, but it’s infrequently as simple as ‘just plug it in and go’.
Training
Few applications will be close enough to your existing systems that your team can simply sit down and follow their nose.
See what the differences are, what training resources are available and the training time and expense concerned.
Never Rush It
You are going to have your new software for a long while.
All of the best and worst features are going to add to the benefit or the cost multiple times over, so take it slow and guage your options completely.
Make a detailed list of features you do and do not need.
Get some good advice on whether cloud computing or systems based in your office are the best for you.
And do not forget the price of migration and coaching.
Our # one tip is to avoid purchasing multiple systems from different providers.
You cannot afford to have the accounting application guy pointing the finger at the hardware system guy, pointing the finger at the network person!
Utilise a SME business software Consultant who will take ownership for everything and steer you throughout the whole process.