We’ve read all the articles with tips on what to look for when purchasing a new software system – you know - a fully integrated system with lots of functionality that is innovative and specific to your industry. A software investment is a big decision; make sure you look at the big picture. Don’t be “another client”; find a vendor that will treat you like a partner. Look into the structure of the company from sales to support and development.
Sales: Make sure all your needs are met before you even consider signing those papers.
You want a sales representative who will be available when you need them, takes the time to follow through and answer all your questions before you sign that dotted line. You also want a sales person who will be honest enough to say “we are not a good fit for each other” and recommend another vendor, not one that cuts down the competition.
What happens after you sign the papers? Are you forgotten about? No one wants to feel neglected when the deal closes.
Support & Training: You need a support team that is readily available to take your calls.
At most, look for 24 hour support. You’re going to have a lot of questions in the first few months so you need to make sure someone is there when you need them. Make sure you are given enough training to use the software efficiently. Software training can be costly but the program will only be able to help you reach your potential, if you know how to use it!
Account Management: You need someone who knows you, personally and professionally.
It’s nice to work with someone who knows a little bit about you and a lot about your software needs – as well. You need one individual to listen, to answer any questions or concerns you may have, rather than multiple people that require you to repeat yourself many times.
Development: Find a partner whose development team listens to the user.
You will want to partner with an organization that listens to and understands your business requirements. Make sure your software developers not only heed your advice when making development changes to their software, but actively seek your input. Talk to other users of the software, they will tell you if this is the case.
Remember to think about the above factors before making that final software decision. Choose a vendor you will be comfortable working with for the next decade. This will surely be a long term partnership, so also check the company’s financial situation, make certain they’ll be in business for the next 10 years.
Making the Right Choice
Jonas Software has a dedicated sales team of five individuals that work together to show you everything about the product, walk you through demonstrations, make sure all your needs are met before you even consider signing those papers. No dealers. It’s not all about receiving that cheque; the partnership must be equally beneficial.
Once training is complete and it’s time for you to ‘flick the switch’ and go live on Jonas, you are assigned your own trainer to take all your calls. It’s been said that you don’t start learning to drive, until you have your license, and we feel the same way about software. It’s once you are live that you really require guidance to get up and running – not to mention, build your confidence. This phase lasts from 3-6 months, depending on your comfort level.
At Jonas, you are assigned an Account Manager to add a personal touch to your experience with Jonas. You will receive at least four calls a year from these individuals, making sure you are kept in the loop with discounted online webinar training, annual user group conferences, monthly newsletters, and audits to make sure you are using the software to its fullest potential. Our Jonas Account Managers are your advocates at head office, making sure that you are getting the highest level of service possible.
Built in-house from the ground up, Jonas’ software development changes are highly driven by customer feedback and suggestions. Every module that we offer has been organically created. We do not partner with third party packages, adding a pre-existing functionality and claiming it to be our own. We offer true integration.