The new project scheduled for 2023: the purchase of a new or replacement software system for your security company. An important choice in which in many cases the implementation is seen as a time-consuming job with many challenges. Curious about the most common pitfalls in practice and how to avoid them? You can read it in this blog.

1. No (proper) preparation

It's not a common saying for nothing: a good start is half the battle. And this is especially true when it comes to implementing new software. So good preparation is very important. Many security companies designate a project team to be involved in the project. Make a list of tasks and questions with this team so that everyone knows what is expected of them.

  • What is the expected live date?
  • Who is the point of contact within the company and at the supplier?
  • How often do you meet?
  • What are the expectations of both parties?

2. Engage employees

When putting together the project team involved in the implementation, it is important to include colleagues with less knowledge of processes. After all, they can contribute content.

A fresh perspective is indispensable precisely during implementation and can ensure that after going live the software is used (correctly). So choose a mixed composition, so that the project group represents the security company well.

3. Insufficient focus

Many agreements are made at the beginning of the implementation, but who will monitor whether they are met? One tip is to break down deadlines into small, manageable chunks. That way, you face less of a challenge and take important steps that will help achieve the goal. It is also important to schedule sufficient training for key users. Prior to going live, they need to get to know the software. Feedback sessions allow them to ask questions, and you can see to what extent they can handle the new system. In addition, this session is the time to show the added value to these users, thus creating support.

We often see that it is important to join forces with the software vendor. They can help in terms of project management and training. So join forces and keep working positively toward the end goal.

4. Dare to go live

After days, weeks or even months of preparation, it's time to go live. An exciting final step, where many companies often get bogged down. After all, it soon feels too early to go live, and safer to wait a little longer. That way there is still time for that list of nice-to-haves or to explain to each employee once again how to work with the software. Situations that slow down the process and ensure that it's never actually the right time to go live.

The advice then is to look back again at the first plan from the preparation. Have the main goals been achieved and desires implemented, and is the expected live date approaching? Then nothing will stop you anymore. Has the project experienced some delays? Then set a new go live date and adjust the planning accordingly. Try to stick to this date. Continuous delay causes irritation to both the security company and the software vendor and takes away the joy of a newly chosen system.

Avoiding pitfalls reduces annoyances

Security companies that prepare properly for a software implementation will waste less time and encounter fewer annoyances. You can do this preparation by asking the right questions, involving employees, having the right focus and actually daring to go live. An important tip: also involve the software vendor in everything. It is important to join forces.

Want to know more about software implementation and our approach? Contact us without obligation!