CAFM/IWMS technology has been around for the better part of the 20th century but not many organizations are aware of the tremendous benefits it provides, not to mention the increase in ROI and cost-effectiveness of such a system.
It may not be possible to “try before you buy” these types of software, so a few things should be considered before betting on one.
We take a look at what this is and things to consider when choosing the right one for your business.
How To choose The Right CAFM/IWMS Technology
1# It Should Fulfil A Specific Purpose
When choosing the right FM software, consider what purpose you want it to fulfil in your organization. Ask yourself what you are trying to fix with these types of applications, there is no “one size fits all” solution and the more specific your needs the better suited you are in choosing the right one.
Advice from companies such as FSI is to find out where there are gaps to fill. For instance, if you need software custom-built to provide control on maintenance inefficiencies, you should think about what the result should look like.
Is there an oversight on compliance needs? Items such as documentation and renewals may be slipping through the net if not looked after, and the right CAFM system can help minimize this gap. You can use it to collate and analyze the right data for reporting purposes and for making improvements, and also in decision-making processes.
2# It Should be User-Friendly
The success of any type of software lies in its usability. If you invest in a highly complicated one that you or your staff find difficult to use, it defeats the purpose.
Consider who the users will be, for instance, will the helpdesk use it? Or the contractors, FM teams or internal maintenance? You need it to answer daily challenges and help find solutions to inconsistencies.
Some of the most user-friendly FM software can be integrated with mobile and various applications, this makes it easier and more convenient to use. You may want it to download data into reports, so think about this too.
3# Support and Onboarding
This is a crucial aspect and when buying from a vendor make sure to inquire about this, as it should ideally provide 24/7 support if the help desk, for example, encounters any issues with it. Some have a dedicated account management team, while others may have a ticketing service.
In choosing your vendor, the best ones will show commitment to customer service and keep client satisfaction at the forefront of their operations.
Other Things to Consider
Besides the above main points, you should also look into the costs, not just the numbers they show you, but the actual costs for setup, ongoing support and licenses.
It is also not a bad idea to see which other companies use the software. The challenges of remote management can be difficult however with the right applications you can pave the way for a successful operation in no time.
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Author: Jocelyn Bell
