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7
Key Tips When Changing Software Vendors
By Dennis Sommer (www.dennissommer.com)
Thinking about replacing your current software? Before
moving forward with the project, review these action items
to ensure the right decisions are made.
1.
Perfect Timing
Start thinking about replacing software
12 to 18 months before it is time to renew your contract.
This will give you time to review your current state,
new business needs, other vendor capabilities, and if
needed install a new software solution.
2.
Environment Picture
Perform a full audit of all the hardware,
software, and components. When replacing software, you
need to know what you already have and who is using it.
3. Total Cost of Ownership
Do not forget training, installation services,
and other costs in the overall price of the software solution.
If you have to keep staff updated regularly and need outside
services, the product might be more expensive than it
is worth in the long run.
4.
Best of Breed
Do not limit your software options to
just one vendor. Many software vendors have recently upgraded
their tools to work well with products from their competitors.
5. Shelved Software
Do not ignore software you still have
on the shelf or others on your production systems but
never use. Just because you are not using it, doesn’t
mean the vendor isn’t going to charge you for it.
6. Current Vendor
Do not discount your current vendor’s
desire to keep you as a satisfied customer. Many software
providers will work with you to get their product working
in your environment.
7.
Last Minute Savings
If you have decided to stay with your
current vendor, negotiate and renew in the last month
of the current contract. This may potentially save in
licensing fees.
About The Author
- Dennis Sommer
Dennis Sommer
is the founder and CEO of Executive Business Advisers,
a management consulting firm specializing in business
growth, sales and profit improvement. www.executivebusinessadvisers.com
Dennis helps companies increase sales revenue, reduce
sales and marketing costs, improve marketing ROI, and
drive new business growth by improving and optimizing
their sales, marketing, company strategy and financial
health.
Dennis is a highly sought after business keynote and seminar
speaker www.dennissommer.com
and author of several highly popular sales, marketing,
leadership and professional development international
articles and books www.advisersecrets.com
.
Contact Dennis at 800-627-6512.
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