As a purchasing manager, you might not be an expert in software for controlling lifting equipment. With this checklist, you get a "cheat sheet" with the most important questions you need to identify the right solution for your business.
Choosing the right software is a critical decision for any business. This especially applies to software designed to help you manage lifting equipment in a safe and efficient manner, with as little person dependency as possible.
Many of the points on a checklist before purchasing software are generic, while others are important for more specialized solutions. In this checklist, we have combined classic software requirements with the feedback we have received from engaged customers and our own experts.
- Compatibility and integration with existing systems: It's important that the software can be integrated with the systems you already have in place, including ERP, CRM, and other operational systems.
- Functionality: Make sure the software has all the necessary features to manage and monitor the lifting equipment effectively. This includes but is not limited to, documentation of technical data and results from performed checks.
- Automatic memory: Lifting equipment has high control requirements, both in terms of regularity and changes in use. The software should provide you with automatic notifications, so you are not reliant on the performance of individuals.
- Location data: Software for lifting equipment control should also help you optimize your inventory of various equipment. The right equipment, in the right place, at the right time. With QR codes and other tracking devices, you can easily know where the equipment is located, when it was last checked, and its condition.
- Reporting: Can the software generate the required reports?
- User-friendliness: The solution should be easy to use and require minimal training. With mobile apps, it becomes easy and efficient for users "in the field" to use the solution.
- Open platform: Suppliers, employees as users, you as owners, and inspectors should all have access to the software. This includes both retrieving and entering important information.
- Customer service and technical support: It's essential that the supplier offers fast and high-quality customer service and technical support, both during implementation and after the purchase.
- User forum: Good user support is important. It becomes even better when you get to meet other customers and discuss challenges from the customers' perspective.
- Data security: The software should have robust security features to protect the company's sensitive data. Demand two-factor authentication and cloud storage.
- Updates: Cloud-based solutions do not require local customization, and therefore updates are more affordable, while you become less dependent on consultants.
- Legislation and compliance: The software should help the company comply with all relevant laws and regulations regarding the handling of lifting equipment.
- Adaptability: The software should be flexible and be able to adapt according to the specific needs of the company, including operating in different jurisdictions with different requirements than you are used to.
- Total price: Compare the price of the software with the budget and determine if it is cost-effective. Also consider the long-term costs such as upgrades, maintenance, and technical support.
- Reliability and reputation of the supplier: Do your research to ensure that the supplier is reliable and has a good reputation in the industry. For instance, is it a solution that inspectors like to use?
- Demo and pilot: Can you see the solution "in action" adapted to the challenges in your business, and can you test a trial version of the solution?
- References and case studies: Ask for references from other companies that have used the software, or look at case studies to get a better understanding of how it works in practice.
What is your experience? Are there any points we should have added or removed? We would be happy to discuss the requirements that should be met by this type of software in your business.
