What are the main considerations when selecting a production software? We asked that question to ChatGPT:
When selecting a production software, there are several factors to consider. Here are some of the most important ones:
1.    Identify your needs: Before you start looking for software, it’s important to identify your company’s needs and desires. Make sure to include anyone who might wind up using the software in identifying needs. This will help you find the right software match.
2.    Create a prioritized checklist: Once you’ve identified your company’s needs and desires, write these down in detail. Prioritize these needs or come up with a scoring system to help when reviewing software. It also helps to identify what you don’t need as this will help parse your software search.
3.    Do your research: Visit websites, review software forums and message boards, thoroughly read the company’s brochures, attend webinars, and more. Once you’ve identified a handful of providers that look like their software might be up to the task, sign up for personal demos and engage in product discussions. Having a better understanding of the products will give you a better idea of how to best address your needs.
4.    Talk to peers and industry leaders and elicit their feedback: Get feedback from a variety of companies. See what solutions they use and why. Read industry articles and white papers. Find out which software provider is the most active with development and is doing the most re-investment in its product.
5.    Consider the cost: The cost of the software is an important consideration. Make sure to factor in the cost of implementation, training, and support. Also, consider the long-term costs of the software, including upgrades and maintenance.
6.    Evaluate the software’s features: Does the software provide out-of-the-box features that meet your requirements? If not, can the gaps be filled through configuration? List out all the requirements you can currently imagine addressing with the new technology, grouping ones that are related and categorizing into buckets like Automation, Analytics, Mobile, etc.
7.    Consider the software’s scalability: Will the software be able to grow with your business? Make sure to consider the scalability of the software before making a decision.
8.    Evaluate the software’s ease of use: Is the software easy to use? Will it require extensive training? Make sure to evaluate the software’s ease of use before making a decision.
9.    Consider the software’s compatibility: Will the software be compatible with your existing systems? Make sure to consider the compatibility of the software before making a decision.
10. Consider the software’s security: Is the software secure? Make sure to evaluate the software’s security features before making a decision.
