Choosing the right CMMS software is one of the most important decisions you will make for your business. If you are unsure what to look for, this blog post lists a few things to consider to help you select an ideal CMMS software.
- Price
The cost of CMMS software will vary depending on the type you choose and your business size. For instance, an enterprise system is expensive but offers more features than what small organizations need.
It’s not enough to just look at price when selecting a CMMS because it doesn’t tell you much about what capabilities the software provides for your organization. Instead, think about how many people in your company are going to use this software before making a final decision.
If there are only five or fewer employees, then it may be worth investing in a lower end solution that still has all of the basic functions needed by most companies. If there are over 100 employees then consider using one with extensive functionality like customized reporting options and centralized data management.
- Usability
Are the screens easy to navigate? Are menu items clear and self-explanatory? Does the software allow you to use your own shortcuts for tasks, projects or other functions that are done often in a day? Is it possible for someone who has never used this specific CMMS before to learn without reading an instruction manual first?
Tip: If these things sound difficult then take a look at another CMMS product and see if there is one with better usability. The ease of use will make all the difference once installation goes live and staff start using it every day.
- Training And Documentation
Your CMMS software will need to be configured and customized for your business. You should fully understand the functionality of this system before deploying it, so you know what needs training on site.
In addition, there are often different documentation requirements depending on how many people can access a specific module or field in the system (e.g., employees with an admin role vs. contractors).
- Modernity
Companies that are able to keep up with the latest technological advancements, such as software systems, will have an easier time adapting and succeeding in their business. The same is true for CMMS selection.
IT professionals should not settle on a system without first doing extensive research and testing it out themselves before taking the plunge. Companies can still thrive if they come across more modernized competitors; but they need to be sure that this change is worth undertaking.
- Flexibility
The last tip for selecting a CMMS software is to find one that has the most flexibility. Software with more options allow you to configure your workflow and business in ways that suit you best.
They are also easier to use and understand, since they’re are structured not to be biased or skewed towards any particular industry type (such as manufacturing) over another.
Ensure that the system you choose will work well across all industries – because there isn’t just one standard way of doing things. The right CMMS should be able to handle every aspect of your company’s operations, from HR tasks like performance reviews, time off requests, and compensation/payroll adjustments.
Summing Up
It is important to identify the specific needs of your business before selecting a CMMS system. With so many systems out there, it can take time and research to find one that suits you best. But these tips will hasten the process.