Factors to Consider when Choosing Accounting Software (Part 3)

In the previous posts, we touched upon the somewhat more obvious factors to consider when picking an accounting software solution, such as your company’s requirements and the software’s capabilities. However, they are only half the story.

When you buy software, you are also buying its accompanying services, e.g., implementation, training, and technical support. Therefore, it makes sense to carefully consider the software provider.

Vendor credibility

• Is the provider well known and established?
• Do they have customer testimonials or quality-proven services?
• Can you research feedback from customers of theirs in your business sector?

Pre-sales services

• Do they provide demo and consultation services tailored to your needs?
• Do they understand your business and provide genuine advice?
• Do they have a clear charges policy? Any small print?

Implementation

• Do they have a methodical approach or standard procedures?
• Do they provide thorough training on-site and off-site?

After-sales support

• How accessible are their support services as far as time availability, and availability online/offline, on-site/off-site?
• Can they develop add-ons or customised modules?

Total cost of ownership

In this economic climate, all investments should be carefully evaluated. For an IT investment, you should weigh the costs (software plus services) and benefits (man hours/human resources savings and added values). Theoretically, the price reflects quality. But that does not mean you should throw out a big chunk of money before your business knows how to effectively use the savings that come with a new accounting solution.

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Are you in the process of evaluating accounting software solutions? Our white paper includes all the factors that should be considered.