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There are over 380 software categories listed on SoftwareAdvice.com, and within a single category, there can be over 200 software vendors!!
Yikes, that is a lot! How do you find the right fit for your business?
The process I use to find the best systems for my clients enables us to:
I'll highlight the key four steps in my process in this rest of the post and in my free Small Business Software Selection Guide. If you are looking for help in finding the right tool for your business -- let's chat -- I would be happy to assist you in picking and integrating your systems. If you are more of a DIY person, use the remaining paragraphs as a guide for your software selection process.
Step 1: Understand your needs:
Having a clear picture of what you need is KEY to finding a great fit! These questions help clarify your needs for the short-term and long-term:
Step 2: Research:
Once you know what is required, it's time to start research. When I do preliminary research, I compare each system on how it meets the needs. In addition, I always compare potential systems on the following:
When it comes to research, I recommend that you cast a wide net to start and then narrow down your choices. You can never choose an option you don't consider -- so I take the preliminary research seriously! [If you are doing this DIY, I recommend you do the same.]
Step 3: Demos:
I use my research to narrow down the choices and build a table to compare the most promising options. Next, I arrange demos (and free trials, if available) to learn more about each of those most promising options.
After each demo, I make sure to update the table and debrief with my clients. With that information, my clients and I can compare all of the options on the most important factor:
Step 4: Selection:
Using the updated comparison table, we can pick "the one" and start the implementation process. Exciting!
So that is an overview of the steps that I take to match new software systems to my client's needs.
Are you looking to make your business more efficient? Let me be your Ally! I would be happy to connect you with the time-saving software and personalized systems you need to add more clients, introduce new services, or both!
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