Access and Feeds

Technology: Tips For Buying Enterprise Software

By Dick Weisinger

The downturn in the economy has hit a lot of budgets. If you’re looking to purchase Enterprise Software, what should you keep in mind when you are considering the budget? Barry Wilderman came up with six tips on his blog for considerations when purchasing ERP. But the tips really apply when purchasing any traditionally-licensed Enterprise Software.

Software License Fees. Cost is often based on server configuration and number of “named users” — specific names assigned to individuals who will access the software. Often fees fluctuate based on the role of the user, for example, administrator or regular user, and by the set of features that a user will have access to, such as collaboration, content consumer, or content author.

Implementation Fees. Vary quite a bit. Typically fees can be one to four times the cost of the software alone, depending on the level of
complexity of configuration and of customization.

Maintenance and Support Fees. Typically around 20 percent of the cost of the original software.

Upgrades. Find out how often regular updates occur and whether or not they are included as part of the Maintenance fees.

New Modules. If the product adds significant new functionality or modules, are they included in your maintenance, or will the module come at additional cost.

Post go-live sales, service and care. Find out and understand what you can expect from your vendor.

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