Number 11 in a series of Dynamics GP implementation tips for Small Businesses
Tip #11: Solid points to check your software and developer before you make a choice
Here are some good questions to ask references before you make your final software and vendor choice. Pick about 5 questions per reference so you respect their time:
- How many software solutions did you consider and why?
- What were your strategic requirements?
- Why did you select your software? You may become aware of reasoning that heavily swayed their decision that’s not relevant for your company.
- What modules are you using? If this company is similar to you and you find they’re not using a module you’re contemplating, drill down more on this information. Maybe you’ll find out they consider it unnecessary, cumbersome, or overly complex.
- From whom did you originally purchase the software and are they still supporting you? Their answer may tell you which resellers to avoid if they have switched.
- Who was the vendor’s lead consultant for your project?
- Who were the other consultants on your project? Tell me about the quality of their work.
- What style of training did you use?
- Did you have data conversion and integration during start up? This is often a difficult step. The more information you have, the better.
- Describe to me your “Go Live” date/time.
- Who do you call when you need critical support?
- Who do you call when you need routine support?
- Do you have any customizations to the software? Explore this issue if it’s relevant to you.
- Do you have custom reports? Explore this issue if it’s relevant to you.
- How often do you upgrade?
- What happens during a typical upgrade?
- What do you like most about the software?
- What do you like least about the software?
- What do you like least about your reseller/consultant?
- What do you like most about your reseller/consultant?
- What are your plans with your business solution over the next few years?
- What would you do differently about the purchase of your software?
- What would you do differently about the implementation of your software?
- Do you have any recommendations for us?
Use Rapid Implementation tips and strategies from the coaching process. Contact Gloria@computeration.com to work through the first few free coaching sessions. More resources on our website: http://www.rapidimplementation.com
