We have all been there – waiting forever for reports to run, getting inaccurate inventory counts, checking orders to see if they were entered and, if they were shipped. In today’s business environment, we must thrive in our marketplace and be ahead of any competitor to make an industry footprint.
It’s a difficult step to take when it’s time to look at new software solutions. You have a level of comfort with your system and no matter what issues you face daily, you just don’t know if it’s time for that change.
Where do you start? How do you determine the functionality your business needs? What should I look for? To cloud or not to cloud? The questions flood your brain and a panic sets in. Luckily, there is no need for panic. This is a process and there are many ways you can go about getting the information you require to match a system that your company needs for success. First, start by developing a checklist. Then, get insight from other top members of your organization, and speak with department heads. Speak with other industry peers and see what they are using, how it's working for them, and get recommendations. This is a good foundation for information finding.
Once you begin the process and gather some information regarding your needs and expectations, you must consider two more critical factors. What is your budget and what is your timeline to complete such a project should you move forward with such a project.
It is difficult trying to manage your daily tasks while determining if you are outgrowing your system. We understand the many challenges you may face in collecting details on the issues happening internally. Finding the time between your daily tasks, and determining what you need and how to evaluate software, can be not only challenging but most often, frustrating. An important tip to consider is to organize a technology committee within your organization who hosts regular meetings to discuss agenda’s, ideas, and course of actions needed.
Determining if you are outgrowing your software is just a starting point. This is a process that will take time and education, so take deep breaths and take one step at a time. This process won’t happen overnight, so don’t get discouraged. In time, you will have a greater appreciation for this project, just remember, how you structure it from the beginning will give you the keys to success. Start your path and you will find the knowledge you need to get to the evaluation stage.
Attend Our February Webcast
February 15th | 1pm – 1:30 pm
Join us for a complimentary educational perspective which will help to clarify the top warning signs associated with outgrowing your software. This presentation will be approximately 30 minutes.
In this webcast, you’ll learn:
As your strategic business partner, CMS is passionately invested in the success of our customers by facilitating holistic solutions both in the manufacturing, distribution and services industries. Since the ‘DOS” Days of Summer,’ clients have counted on our skilled team of professionals, with expertise in accounting and finance, inventory management, manufacturing operations, wholesale distribution and software solutions, to solve their challenges.