What To Look For In Finding The Right Software For Your Business

Casey Haslem

September 19, 2013

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Finding the right type of software for a business relies partly on identifying the individual needs of the company, the customers and the industry. Although these requirements can be very different, all good business software will still have some common features beyond industry-specific functionality. Business owners should consider several points when looking for the right software.

Deployment Models

Businesses need to choose between traditional deployment and cloud-based methods. Traditional packages require servers, workstations and some expertise. The software is purchased and installed on local systems. This removes the need for public-facing network connections but increases the complexity of updates and adding new workstations. Software as a service (SaaS) is delivered across the Internet. It requires less of an information technology infrastructure but does require constant Internet access to work.

Automation

An effective piece of business software will have strong automation functions. This means making it possible to perform repetitive or tedious sequences of tasks with just one or two clicks. It could also mean scheduling tasks so they happen automatically. Software suites without any automation functionality will not necessarily increase the productivity or efficiency of the business.

Access to Data

The best business software provides easy and centralized access to all the data necessary in company systems. Dashboard software tools collect information in real-time from many different areas such as budget spreadsheets, point of sale applications and customer databases all at the same time. The single dashboard provides easy access to all of this information as well as options for analyzing and viewing the data. This makes the software more valuable while also increasing the efficiency of executives and leaders within the business.

Scalability

Business software needs to be scalable. This means the software can incorporate new data sources, larger numbers of customers or new accounts as needed. Static software that is not scalable will force a business to purchase new applications or additional modules as the company grows. This will increase overhead until a scalable software solution is found.

Active Development

Businesses will want to choose software that is actively developed and supported. Software that is still actively developed will receive regular updates or patches that fix existing bugs, add new features and respond to the changing needs of clients. This also indicates that support is available if the software stops functioning as intended. Active development and support will make a large difference over time.

Finding the right software is very important for any business. A good suite of applications will make employees more productive. It also streamlines complex tasks and makes decision-making easier. Finding effective software is a key part of running a successful business