Checking references increases the chance that the software selected will meet your requirements. Reference checks will provide you with insight on how to best use the software. These checks can be done via telephone and on-site visits.
Telephone checks are quick and lowcost. The downside of telephone checks is that usually you speak to only one manager at the company. In some cases the view you get from this manager may not be indicative of the views held by other managers at this company.
On-site visits are more informative. From an on-site visit you can see how the software is being used and learn from the experiences of different departments heads. People are more frank during in-person talks and you will learn more during this type of interaction.
Both types of reference checks should follow a script to ensure that critical questions are not overlooked. This checklist should address;
Software
- What software modules are you using?
- When did you install the software?
Software Selection
- What other software solutions did you look at?
- Why did you select this software?
- What software did this system replace?
- Would you purchase this software again?
Implementation
- Did the vendor assist with the implementation?
- How well did the implementation go?
- Do you encounter any problems during the implementation?
- How long did it take to implement the software?
- Who was the project manager that guided you through the implementation?
- Would you recommend them?
Modifications
- Do you ask for any software modifications?
- Were the software modifications affordable?
- How fast were the modifications implemented?
Software Usage
- Is the software easy to use?
- Has the software increased the productivity of your staff?
- Did you encounter any problems with the software?