Only Online DWM Magazine - Choose Wisely: Selecting Software Systems

Choose Wisely
Advice for Selecting Software Systems
by James Lang

When manufacturers source new software systems or automation tools, it is all too common to fall into the trap of unrealistic expectations and loosely defined goals. The danger of attempting to accomplish too much is ending up with a system that is large and unwieldy that only partially meets the key requirements. Often, such systems are more expensive than needed and their installs have higher chances of failure. It is recommended that you follow a few basic steps to make sure that you choose the right software package, ensuring your investment is worth more than the cost.

Knowing What You Need
It is important to make a clear list of priorities as part of planning a software purchase. If there is no perceptible need for a new software system, the install will only serve to further complicate your business. Manufacturers' goals typically include helping the growth of their business, cutting costs through increased efficiency and improving customer service. Without knowing what you are trying to accomplish, it will be impossible for you to determine the success of the software implementation at its completion, leaving you unhappy with your decision to invest in new technology.

Knowing What You Can Handle
Anyone can envision a fully automated manufacturing process. Accomplishing this vision is the challenge. Once you have defined the goals of the software system install, you will need to determine if you have adequate staff and if they will be capable of managing the project. Their responsibilities will include implementing potentially large process changes as well as managing a technologically-challenging product. If the hiring of additional staff or consulting services are needed, it is important to understand this before the beginning of the project so you can measure your investment fully.

Sourcing the Right Vendor
When interviewing vendors, the focus should always remain on their ability to deliver a solution that meets the needs that you have already defined. Keep your eyes on your goals and do not get distracted by unnecessary additional features. There will always be time to roll out more functionality after the initial implementation. It is easy for a vendor to promise perfection, but then deliver far from it. Be sure to communicate with current customers of each of your potential vendors to ensure that your requirements will be met. Remember, you will be working with your vendor for some time, so be sure that you partner with a company equally invested in the success of your project.

It's a Long Road
Software implementation is not an overnight process. As your company grows, your use of systems will change based on your developing needs. Technology will continue to improve and will present a great opportunity for your business to differentiate itself. To stay ahead of your competitors, it will be critical to continue to commit to software improvements in the years to come. After your key goals have been met, you will be able to move on to automate more areas of your business, improving efficiency and customer satisfaction.

Knowing You Succeeded
The key to software systems bliss is ensuring that you are able to measure easily how well the goals and expectations you laid out have been met. If you have done a good job of defining your needs, assessing your staff and sourcing your vendor, the investment you made in software will more than pay for itself. Through greater efficiency, improved information management, and above all, customer service, software systems are more than capable of having a profound positive impact on your business. However, without clearly understanding what you want to get out of software and making decisions based on your goals, you will not be able to take advantage of technology's great potential.

James Lang is manufacturing systems lead for WTS Paradigm based in Middleton, Wis. He may be reached at jlang@windowengineering.com. Mr. Lang's opinions are solely his own and not necessarily those of this magazine.