Have you noticed that sometimes you are browsing the internet and you see an ad about something that you have just been thinking about? It’s crazy, right? What if that happens with a new system and all of a sudden you are wondering if you should go ahead and change to that system? Is it a bad idea? Do you need this change or are you just being impulsive? Let’s go over some key points to make a decision like that.
Your current system
First things first, you need to think about what you are currently using. What is it that your system does for you? Is your team fully integrated? If you do decide to change to a different system, you’ll have to adapt everything that is already in place. This is why it is important to consider everything the system is doing when deciding if changing it is worth it.
Are you happy with the current system? (uptime, ease of use, integration options?). Here is another key point. If you were already unhappy with some of the features of your current system, maybe it is time for a change. Your system might not be up to date with your SOPs anymore, or you’ve been feeling the need for some new features. But if you think your system is awesome and just really want the new one out of excitement, then it might be better to stay where you are.
What is on your wish list for things you would like your system to do? That’s an important point when choosing your system. Write down a list of features that you would want to have on a “perfect” system. That gives you the foundation to decide if your current system is serving you well enough. On the other hand, it can also work as a basis for you to analyze this new system.
Amenities
What does this new system do that your old one can’t? Write down the main differences between the two systems. What are the main reasons for you to purchase it? Will you lose any of the features you currently have? Make a “pros and cons” list so you can better compare both systems. That way you make sure you are making an informed decision.
Do you NEED those things? Will they help you save time or make more money? Sometimes you’ll get super excited with those awesome new features that aren’t essential for you. Buying and implementing a new system is an investment. Not only of money but also of your time. Ask yourself this question “Are you investing in something that will make your life better or is you just being lured in by cool features?”
Does this new system check off the items from your wish list above? Maybe you came to the conclusion you do want a new system. Does this one meet your needs? You don’t necessarily have to choose between your current system and this new one you saw advertised. There is a multitude of systems with all kinds of features out there. If you do decide to change don’t rush it! Do some research, you might have other options that better suited to your needs.
Cost
What is the current cost of running the system you already have (both time and money)? After you’ve analyzed the practical side, you need to go down to cost-benefit relations. Just as you have considered the things your current system does, think about the costs associated with it.
What is the actual cost of the new system (how much money does it cost and will it save you time?). Keep in mind that making the change from one system to another will take time and needs to be done well. Think about how it is going to be once the new system is implemented. Does the investment pay for itself later?
Will there be a steep learning curve for your team? To implement a new system, both you and your team will have to go through a learning curve, there’s no getting away from it. Think about how different the systems are and how prepared you and your team are for the change. Also, take into consideration timing. Are you in the middle of a big project? Do you have a new launch coming up? You don’t want a change of systems interfering with things that are important for your business growth.
Current setup and the time it will take to move
How integrated is your current system? Depending on how much of your business runs through your system, migrating to a new one might be more or less challenging. Take into consideration how much data are you looking to move. That will help you to determine the time it is going to take to make that move and the cost associated with that time.
How easy will it be to export and import your data to the new system? Take a look at the migration process. Before you decide anything, understand what type of work you will need to put in to change into the new system. Look up some reviews or ask for a trial. Your data is very important you need to make sure you’ll be able to transfer it safely and efficiently.
How much time will it take to move and how much will it cost you? Keep in mind that you will have to stop your business’s normal workflow to implement the new system. So, evaluate the costs associated with that. Costs of labour to move and any costs due to the downtime. Remember that choosing a good time to move is essential. You don’t want to be stopping your business for a system change in the middle of a big project.
Is it worth it?
Ask yourself the questions that matter. For instance, it doesn’t matter that the system is great if you don’t need it. You want to make investments that will help your business grow, save time and make money. If implementing a new system won’t do these things for you then it isn’t worth it.
Ask yourself:
- Is your current system performing as you need it to?
- Will your current system be able to support your growth?
- Do you have all the Amenities you NEED?
You have no reason to replace something that is already working and with room to grow. If a new system will support your growth in a better way, or your current system isn’t satisfying, than yes, changing might be best.
However, you need to make sure this new system has everything you are looking for. If you are changing that it has to be for the better.
Will moving save you time, money or headaches? If so, a new system might be just what you need to make your life that much better. If, after analyzing all the aspects of the new system, you are convinced this new system will save you time, money or headaches, then go for it! Change is essential for growth, as long as you make smart decisions.
Will moving create more problems or provide solutions? Try not to get carried away by either end. Moving will have its benefits, but there is an adaptation process, financial and time costs. Balance out the pros and cons so you can decide if it’s worth it. Both questioning too much and leaping too fast can be detrimental. So keep a neutral position and trust your gut.
If you are looking to change systems or implement new systems in your business I can help you with that. Not only can I help you with the choice of whether to move or not, but I can also help you prepare for the move by creating and documenting your SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures), processes and making sure that the system you choose is structured so that your SOPs are the foundation of your system. Let’s chat!
