Will the software be shelved because users don’t find it easy-to-use? 

In a 1992 study, leading analysts Gartner Group determined that usability methods raised user satisfaction ratings for a system by 40% (Bias and Mayhew, 1994).

It has been widely proven that software usability dramatically affects user satisfaction levels and adoption rates. Put simply, solutions that don’t emphasize usability will not be used! On the other hand, employees will rapidly embrace a well-designed product, helping you get the most out of your software investment.

In addition, poorly designed solutions usually require extensive and costly on-site training. Well-designed products require less training, less support, and improved productivity.

Another reason many solutions end up shelved is because they don’t serve their intended purpose. The solution must easily configure to all of your business needs, now, and in the future. A complicated customization process that takes weeks, or even months to implement will dramatically interrupt day-to-day productivity and increase the chances that the software will be rejected. 

What to ask vendors:

• How long does it typically take employees to adopt the solution and become expert users?

• Is additional training and unlimited technical support also available? At what cost?

• To what extent is the solution fully configurable out-of-the-box?

• Can the solution adapt to our rapidly changing business requirements?

• How quick and easy is a typical software installation?

• How long does it take to implement and configure the software to our business needs?

• Can we test-drive the software before purchasing?

• Does the trial version come pre-populated with data or do we have to input it ourselves?