1. Can the software grow with your business?
And if so, how much will it cost you? Being able to scale is crucial for growing businesses. No one wants to go through development, customisation, testing and training, only to discover they've outgrown their product and need to replace it.
2. Can you customise the software?
Many software companies view customisation as an area for price negotiation, but this cost should be reasonable – if they’re serious about wanting your business.
3. Will there be issues with implementation?
The software company should be able to warn you of the hurdles that they’ve experienced during similar implementations they’ve carried out. If not, proceed with caution.
4. What determines the price?
Common ways to set a price include:
- Per seat – the number of people who will be using the software at any given time.
- Per concurrent user - only a set amount of users can use the software at one time, even though it’s installed on more machines than users.
- Per processor – the amount of processing power your server provides.
5. Is there a satisfaction guarantee?
This isn’t a money-back-guarantee, but a promise to fix any reasonable issues that you discover that you have with the software within a given time. You'll need this included in the contract before signing.
6. What’s the turnaround time for fixing bugs?
Some companies fix software issues as soon as you find them. Others produce a list of bugs to be fixed and carry out the updates using a timetable that works for them. Both methods work, but agree up-front which way the software company will operate.
7. Are on-site services included?
Check if your deal includes on-site services or support. If the price doesn’t include them, find how much they will cost. These services can include:
Training classes – on site, via webinar or recorded sessions
Help with installation issues
Customisation to suit your exact business
8. What are the support department’s hours?
If you need help and it’s not available, you might have to take the system down for a long time and wait for assistance. Find out if the support department will only answer calls at certain times, and whether you'll need to leave messages and wait for a callback. Will you have a designated help person, or will it be a different person every time?
9. Will you be notified about updates?
Depending on the software company, when it comes to updates they may decide:
- Not to notify customers when updates are made – only when an individual customer tells them about a problem.
- To notify customers regularly about updates. If so, make sure they have more than one set of contact details for your company
10. When are updates due?
You'll need to know this so that you can plan ahead. Also, if someone wants a particular update carried out, you’ll have the answer right away.
At Access Finance we are experts in providing finance and accounting software to thousands of businesses across a range of sectors. Read our guide on how to choose the right accounting software, or get in touch to find out how we can help your business.