CRM, ERP, custom software, name them all! It’s hard to choose the right technological solution when you don’t know what it is. That’s why WizeBA Inc., a company specializing in business analysis for small and medium-sized businesses, gives you 5 wise tips to identify the best technological solution for your real needs. With these suggestions, you will know what to choose to make your operations easier, automate your business and improve your profitability!
Let’s clarify something important: CRM, ERP and other software improve your operations
A technology solution, such as a CRM or ERP, is a lever for your company. However, there is one condition to be met: make the right choice for your business. Without this, the targeted technological solution won’t be able to fulfill its main functions, such as speeding up production, facilitating your management, improving internal processes and, of course, increasing your profitability. That’s why business analytics experts recommend that you assess your company’s real needs and focus your final choice on the technology solution that meets them. So here is my first advice:
““If a technology solution doesn’t fit your business, choose again.”
In addition, we must avoid making mistakes that are too common when deciding between a CRM, ERP or custom software. Here are some of them:
- Conduct to be prohibited:
The monumental mistake that many people make is that they rely on their past experiences to choose a CRM, ERP, etc. Indeed, many entrepreneurs tend to use or implement a technology solution that they have already used in another company. It is likely not related to the current business, as the software selected was used in a specific context and for specific needs. If the solution worked for this company, it was often thanks to a good assessment of the objectives and organizational context. Too much of what they already know, these entrepreneurs neglect the real needs of their business.
Remember my counsel number 2: ““Simply using a bad tool can end up costing you dearly… And there’s nothing more ineffective than choosing a technology solution, trying to learn it and realizing after a few months of dissatisfaction that it wasn’t right for the company and that you have to choose another one.”
The next mistake may seem obvious, but many entrepreneurs fall into this trap: Wishes vs Reality. There’s a big difference between what you want and what your company really needs. Some people are very keen on a technological solution. A friend strongly recommended it, or an online article mentioned it, or it’s in vogue… Whatever the reason, you need to know what your business really needs to do to make the right choice.
How do you choose the technology solution for your business?
Now that you know what to avoid, here’s how to choose the right solution for your business.
- Analyze the current environment: are there any gaps, strengths, medium-term vision, staff technological skills, etc. Have as many elements as possible in mind to better guide your choice.
- Identify business needs: Make a list by ordering the needs. Determine which features are important and which would be fun. (Watch out for the Wishes vs Reality trap.)
- Look to the future: Put your business or department’s objectives on paper.
Ask yourself the right questions
Once you have a clear idea of the environment in which the technology solution will be implemented, answer these questions:
- New alternative or replacement? Do you have any business requirements? In other words, do you want to replace existing software that is outdated or implement a new one? Solutions will vary based on this information. For example, if you’re replacing a piece of software or adding a new one to an existing one, you’ll need to consider compatibility between technological solutions (making links via APIs). Solutions will need to communicate with each other to perform new functions and thus create value (technology leverage).
- What was driving the change? Why do you want a new technological solution? Is it because of an expansion, a company merger or the implementation of a new process? Does your existing software have limitations, do you need new features?
- What are the potential technological solutions? After answering the previous questions, you will have an excellent idea of the criteria and factors to consider in your selection. Look for technology solutions that seem right for you. There may be several, so explore and compare. Most importantly, read the pros / cons of each. If you would like an impartial expert’s opinion, business analysts for SMEs, such as WizeBA Inc., can provide you with information.
- Test the technological solution: Technology software or solutions are like cars. You will use them often, if not every day. Make sure you are satisfied with the technology solution. To find out, try it out. Many solutions, such as ERP or CRM, offer a 30-day free trial period. Don’t hesitate to use it, especially if you’re hesitant between two solutions. Finally, make your selection and ensure that your list of key criteria is met.
- Plan the implementation of the system: Software implementation means change management. Try to plan its implementation, train employees, transfer the data to the new system and determine how to deploy:
- Per module: Client module, Inventory module, Accounting module.
- Phased: start with a sample, i. e. new clients, and gradually integrate existing clients.
Remember that planning the implementation will help you reduce the unexpected and ensure an effective transition.
A Final Tip on Technology Solutions
As you have seen, there is no better software or perfect technology solution on the market. They’re all excellent, but with different features. With an effective analysis of your needs, you’ll find the best solution for your business. Whether it’s a CRM, ERP, password management software or more specific software, such as a custom-made solution by IT experts, a technology solution must be an investment for your company. Whether it’s designed for a single department or for the whole company, the technology solution must be a lever for your business and its profitability.