Afraid To Buy Software From A Small enterprise?

OK, you've found what appears to be a great software product which solves a vital business issue (and also at an excellent price), so you speak with a "decision-maker" - this can be your manager, the CIO or maybe a regional controller. You present a number of your findings (based on a "live" demonstration) and before you finish, they want to know everything concerning the software vendor...not necessarily a bad thing, it's part of the due diligence process.Unfortunately, because the software vendor does not appear in Gartner's "Magic Quadrant" or is not considered a "Top 5" player, your idea is quickly dismissed because "...they're too small and for that reason too big a danger for the company." You are feeling just a little intimidated; possibly even embarrassed that you simply suggested the concept and are thinking this might be the last time you stick your neck out.Obviously, Chaussure Air Max you don't want to play high-stakes poker together with your employer's money - same with your concept that crazy (due to the fact it's a small software vendor)? If the software can truly address your core business requirements, ask your decision-makers to consider the following 8 reasons when looking for software vendors: Personalized Service, Care, and Support Nike Air Max 2012 (for that life of your software). When you purchase software from the smaller organization, you're buying a long-term relationship that isnurtured after the sale. You may not receive that "whiz-bang" PowerPoint and handsome binder containing those marketing glossies but you will receive attention to detail along with a solution tailored for your business needs...and people needs can change over time, so it's critical that your vendor stay closely aligned and attached to your company. Better Value. Small companies have less overhead and do things more cost-effectively. This reduction in cost means a better price for the buyer without sacrificing the quality of the merchandise or even the quality of service. The Internet has leveled the playing field and allows small companies to provide low-cost innovative products, services, and support. Research and development is laser-focused on adding business value using the most current technologies. Faster Response. When you need it quickly, there isn't a complex maze of procedures and employees to get it done. The decision-makers in a tiny business are only a call/email/text away! LESS Risk. Your research will settle if software can suit your needs. Worried about if the company is going to be around next year? Consider what's happening at the high-end of the software industry - consolidation (mergers and acquisitions) inducing the unknown future or direction of software products. Request references; many smaller businesses have Fortune 500 clients! Select a small company with a well-architected product which uses current technology/standards and get to escrow source code - within the worst of all scenario, you choose an "open-source" solution! More Influence (think "enhancements"). Your changing business requirements have a greater probability of being serviced by a smaller company and much more quickly. Think about that large vendor built through mergers/acquisitions. Think there's any chance your idea is going to be implemented? How long does it take that large vendor to alter an item(s) which has multiple versions being supported (and in different technologies)? Your business will change...can your software keep pace? A small software vendor can enhance its product quickly and economically to fulfill your real-world business needs. Better Technology Faster. An inferior company can react a lot more quickly to changes because modifications to their product are less complex. Change isn't a four-letter word. When driven by small business, change raises the product and benefits the customer. Change is fast in a small company; a well-architected product and something version of software programs are an environment that large companies only dream of. Transparency. A small company can't hide within corporate umbrella. When there are issues, there are no excuses, and you have access immediately towards the decision-makers in a tiny business. Losing a customer is not considered a choice in a tiny business. Flexibility. A small company is not constrained by corporate rules and policies; a small business fosters an atmosphere of creativity/innovation. The fundamental premise isn't to fulfill the requirements of shareholders but to find a long-term business solution that benefits Air Max 2012 both the provider of software/services and the client.The above mentioned list is supplied to stimulate discussion. Based upon the size of your organization, you may have a proper process for selecting/purchasing software products and you'll end up choosing a product from the large software vendor...my goal is just to make sure your selection is made for the all of the right reasons!