It is worth bearing in mind that careful planning and focused execution are vital components in the successful delivery of a cost management initiative. No software package will be a “silver bullet” eliminating all of the shortcomings of current management information systems. The chances are good that several software packages will be capable of delivering the result you need. Make sure that poor project discipline does not let you down. Many consultancies and software vendors will have specialist costing consultants who can assist with business and technical consulting support.
Define project objectives and scope at the start of the process. Will this be a single, strategic modelling exercise to support a one-off decision? Is this part of an initiative to drive continuous improvement at an operational level. What will be the frequency of updates? Will the scope include the whole organisation or just part of it? Describe the output you need.
Many organisations have defined IT standards and policies which will be applicable to the procurement of software. Ensure that your IT department is sufficiently involved at the start of the process of software selection.
Consider the following functional areas of software when making a decision:
- Flexibility
- Scalability
- Data Integration Capabilities
- Reporting Options
- Automation Capabilities
- Ease of Use
- Technology Platform
- Software Maintenance Contracts & Technical Support
- Customer References
- Vendor Company Statistics
Whether external resources are required to assist in deploying a software solution will depend upon the availability and level of expertise of people within your own organisation. Sound project experience from third parties can prove to be the difference between success and failure.