Don’t Fall Into These Traps When Choosing Your Next Software Provider

Sep 21, 2021
2 min read
Don’t Fall Into These Traps When Choosing Your Next Software Provider Image
Dots SVG Image

Selecting a new field service software provider is a big decision that will impact your business for years to come. You certainly don’t want buyer’s remorse. If you’re not prepared, going into the unknown can be daunting and a little scary, to say the least. To help avoid making a very expensive mistake, here is a list of pitfalls to avoid.

1. It’s Not Always About Price 

When you’re working with a tight budget, it’s tempting to go with the cheapest software you can find. But just because it’s cheap, doesn’t mean you should buy it. Field service software comes in all shapes and sizes and the cheapest may cause a lot of headaches as you try to make it fit your needs. This can actually cost you more in the long run. Don’t fall victim to what seems to be a good deal up front. 

2. Make A List And Check It Twice 

Before you start shopping, make a list of the features you absolutely need. Some companies will distract you with fancy options in lieu of your purchasing goal. Think about what you need the software to actually do. If you’re buying it just because it looks slick, you’re probably buying the wrong software. 

3. Scalability 

Just because you’re running a small field service business today, doesn’t mean it’s going to be small tomorrow. The idea of purchasing for your needs “right now” is appealing, but you will quickly outgrow the system and it will need to be replaced. When purchasing new software, make sure it grows with you, not against you.

4. Read The Fine Print 

All contracts are not created the same. A 2016 study proved exactly what we all know – that no one reads the terms of service before accepting them. A fake social networking site was created and hidden in the terms of service were two things – they could share all your information with the NSA, and you needed to give up your first born as a form of payment. 98% signed up anyway. Some field service software providers will do the same. Unfortunately, sometimes things happen in life and you shouldn’t have to give up your first born to get out of your agreement. 

5. Customer Service 

Some field service software providers will outsource their customer service to cut costs. It may save them money, but you end up suffering because of the lack of quality service.

6. Implementation 

Many companies will over-sell their implementation processes by telling you how quick and painless it will be, but implementing a new software is never easy. It could take as many as six months depending on the complexity. Also, take the extra time to have your employees properly trained. It’s tempting to skip this step to accelerate the process, but it helps them adopt it more easily.

Be smart about your field service software purchase. Don’t be pushed into features you don’t need, or you don’t want. Avoiding these traps will save you a lot of headaches and will help you avoid spending more money than needed.

In this article
Get FieldRoutes updates in your inbox

FieldRoutes needs the contact information you provide to us to contact you about our products and services. You may unsubscribe from these communications at any time. For information on how to unsubscribe, as well as our privacy practices and commitment to protecting your privacy, please review our Privacy Policy.

Wanting more? Check out some of our other tips and tools!

FAQ: Making The Transition To FieldRoutes As Your Software Provider

FAQ: Making The Transition To FieldRoutes As Your Software Provider

Knowing the technical steps of making a transition from one software provider to FieldRoutes is important. But you might have other questions.

The Secret To Keeping Customers Happy Throughout Busy Season

The Secret To Keeping Customers Happy Throughout Busy Season

Exemplary customer service is king in the field service industry. It can be easy to let things slip when things get busy, but don’t forget that customer retention is good business. Customer acquisition can cost up to five times more than customer retention, so it’s worth investing in strategies that will prevent your customers from melting away when things heat up. So when the weather gets warmer and the calls flood in, ensure you and your team have the tools to make hay this summer.

Preparing Your Field Service Business For A Natural Disaster

Preparing Your Field Service Business For A Natural Disaster

Expect the unexpected. In this Checklist, we’ll go over a few actions you can take to help maintain operations during emergency situations.

Top 6 Automation Hacks To Get Your Time Back

Top 6 Automation Hacks To Get Your Time Back

Growing your business shouldn’t be this hard. Do a great job, sign up more customers, then kick back and watch the money roll in.

3 Ways You Can Attract And Retain Millennial Customers

3 Ways You Can Attract And Retain Millennial Customers

Finding software that meets your operational and marketing needs can be tricky. That’s where FieldRoutes comes in. Our fully integrated Marketing and Operations Suites give you the tools you need to appeal to millennials and grow your business.

How To Get Rid Of Late Payments Pests

How To Get Rid Of Late Payments Pests

If you need help improving your collections process with cutting-edge technology, contact FieldRoutes. Our experts can help you identify the solutions you need to protect your bottom line.

FieldRoutes helps field service companies simplify, scale, and grow.

Graphic Conversion Panel