Blue Link Buzz

4 Ways To Avoid "I'm Too Busy" in Software Implementation

There are a lot of software competitors out there but at Blue Link we are not worried about any of them. Why? Because our #1 "competitor" is time-poor management indecision.

Managers and owners tasked with implementing a new software system tend to procrastinate - a lot - even when they've already decided on the solution they like best. Often they find themselves too busy and repeatedly put the software search "on the backburner".

The problem with this is that a proper system to run their business is often never implemented or implemented when harm has already been done. Whether you are a manager or owner, it is extremely beneficial to implement a system in a timely manner. Failing to do so will leave your business "getting by" on antiquated software that will not only impede business growth but may actually harm the business (inventory loss, inefficiency etc.).

Here are 4 ways to motivate your own software search:

      1. Understand the benefits of a new system.

      Sure, finding a new software package and implementing it is time consuming but how much time will you save with it in place? How much more money will you make being able to better serve your customers?

      2. Set a firm deadline.
      Not just on when you want the new system to go-live but also on when you plan to make a final decision on the vendor. Keep in mind that good ERP packages can take months to implement.

     3. Decide on a short-list of vendors.

     With a deadline now in mind, engage with an appropriate number of vendors to arrive at a decision in a timely manner. Do not engage with 6,7 or 8 vendors. Instead focus on 3 or so and give them your full attention. When using sites to help you match up with vendors, specify that you only want to be contacted by a few.

      4. Make it a priority.

      Ensuring that you have great software to run your business is extremely important - treat it as such. Dedicate the time required to evaluate vendors thoroughly, narrow down the search and make a decision in a timely mannner. The search should not take a backseat to everything else. If you find yourself getting distracted fighting fires, consider the fires that can be prevented with a proper system.

If you follow these 4 steps you can be up and running with a great new software system in no time.

Final tip: Choosing to perform the search prior to your "off-season" will make it easy to implement the system when you are less busy. Waiting for your off-season to start the search and make a decision can greatly delay the implementation. The best time to implement software is in your off-season.