With over 22 years in the software solution market I have seen a number of very well intentioned buyers (including myself) make some very poor decisions.  We are all under a level of pressure and stress that seems higher than any point in recent memory.  The fact that we are all immediately accessible with our state of the art treoberrycentro cell/email/contact device attached neatly to our hip doesn’t help.  It’s no wonder that when it comes time to make important software solution decisions that we can fall down on occasion.  So, with holiday spirit in mind I have written my own top 10 list.  I hope the Late Show can forgive me.

The top 10 things to keep in mind when making a software solution decision.

10)  Don’t let cost drive the decision.  It’s important but it’s also more expensive to make a switch after a poor decision.

9) Do compare to at least 2 others.  Doesn’t have to be a full blown RFP but make sure you know the market.

8) Don’t choose the “cool” application.  Make a substance based decision not one based on a killer demo.

7) Invest in the implementation budget.  You can’t do it yourself.  Don’t kid yourself – you have a day job.

6) Properly evaluate each company’s leadership team and talent pool.  Look for industry experience and success.  When you struggle, and you will, you need a team behind you that will ensure a positive project.

5) Don’t always make the safe choice – nobody ever gets fired for picking the industry leader, right?  They do if it doesn’t go well.

4) Talk to references.  If a company can’t find one or two organizations for you to talk to about their experience then beware.

3) Be realistic in your timelines. 

2) Prioritize your needs.  Make sure they align with your choice.  You’re only going to use 20-40% of whatever application you implement (think Word, Excel, your cell phone, etc…).  Make sure your choice aligns directly with your prioritized needs.

1) Character, integrity and track record matter.  There is nothing wrong with taking a chance but do it with the right company.