Are you a company that needs a technology upgrade? A software consulting firm can be a great resource for help and advice. According to Indeed, a software consulting firm will help you decide on the best features for your company while understanding your budget concerns. Before bringing on a local professional consultant, there are some criteria you should look for to find the right fit.
1. Expertise
Always focus on a software consultant who understands the product like the back of their hand. In other words, you wouldn’t want a Microsoft consultant to help you with Adobe software. So how can you be sure of their expertise? Begin by asking them to provide references and referrals so you can either directly contact other clients or view verifiable testimonials online. You can also ask them a series of questions during your initial consultation to ensure you walk away with as good of a grasp of the product as possible.
2. Pricing
As mentioned, a good software consulting firm understands how to match your company’s needs with your budget restrictions. A good consultant will understand what product features your company needs immediately versus what they may be able to install at a later time. Before you sign on the dotted line, be fully aware of how much such services will cost. Also, consider if you’ll need a consultant for additional work, such as an emergency issue with the software. Understand if the software firm has a flat rate, project rate, or hourly rate, as well as, what they may expect for emergency services.
3. Security
Security is an absolute must with any technology and software installation. The news constantly has reports of data breaches at many companies, even large international ones. Therefore, you want peace of mind that your software consulting firm uses the best up-to-date standards and security practices. They should understand the most efficient and safe ways to initiate data protection, especially when dealing with secure client information. If your company suffers a data breach, your reputation will be on the line with the clients you deal with.
4. Industry Experience
Unless the software you’re dealing with was invented yesterday, you should aim for a software consultant that has done this type of work for several years. You want someone who understands the ins and outs of the industry and how things can change quickly. They should understand how to work with your business and other similar companies. Having that type of experience will enable them to answer your questions and predict what you might need in the future.
5. Communication
You want a consultant that knows how to communicate well and explain things in a way that a non-expert can understand. Note how they interact with you when you meet, whether online or in person. Are they prepared? Do they speak clearly and confidently about the software they are working with? Do they pay attention to what you’re saying and answer your questions clearly and directly? When you send them correspondence, you should expect to hear back within a reasonable time. Whether it’s by phone, e-mail, or app, the consultant should be available during their designated business hours and communicate well in and out of meetings.
6. Support Level
While technology grows, that doesn’t mean errors won’t happen. That’s why you need a consultant on deck that can provide as much support as your company may need. As mentioned earlier, you may need emergency services in case of a data breach or if the software stops working. Ask the consulting firm how they go about support, who to call, and how quickly they can fix a problem.
7. Customized Approach
When you engage with your software consulting firm, you should feel they’re speaking specifically to you and not using the same speech as with every client. Even when in the same industry, different companies have different needs. A good consultant understands this and can tailor their approach and services to be flexible enough to suit your client. They should also understand those needs may change in the future, and be willing to take them on.
With so much technology to keep up with, your company needs a software consulting firm it can trust. These professionals understand the various software and can keep up with changes in the industry to make your job easier. If your company needs help upgrading its software and technology, call GLXY Software Solutions today. We look forward to assisting you.