Four ways to stay in control of your HRMS software demos

An ERP demo is a valuable opportunity to review an HRMS and get an understanding of how the application can help your company. If you go into a demo without preparation you’re not in a good position to evaluate the information provided by the sales team. Make sure that you’re the one in the driver’s seat and directing the vendor sales team by using these four tips.

Provide a script

A vendor usually has a defined presentation which highlights the key features of their HRMS. A strong sales team with a robust product will welcome the opportunity to customize their demo as it improves their chances of a sale. When you provide a set of requirements in advance of a demo it gives the sales team the opportunity to address your needs and concerns. It enables you to get a more detailed look at an application instead of seeing only what the vendor wants you to see.

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Engage an expert

Often a company brings in an HRMS consultant for an implementation project. A skilled HRMS consultant is knowledgeable about many HRMS products. It can be helpful to have a consultant on your side to ask the difficult questions and to ensure that you do not get lost in the sales rhetoric. Some consultants specialize in pre-sales or implementation selection which can be great for demos too.

Do your research in advance

When you go into a showroom for a car or new house you usually prepare prior to the visit. An HRMS demo requires the same planning and study. Review the vendor’s website and materials to understand their key selling points. It’s helpful to do independent research online to determine where the vendor’s weaknesses may be so that you can ask at the demo.

Inquire with others

A good network can provide invaluable help when it comes to HRMS demos. Reach out to those who you know for inside information. It pays to belong to professional HRMS organizations where you can ask for feedback from other companies about top vendors and products. A vendor will provide customer references as a part of the sales cycle but independent opinions are better. Search for customers of a comparable size or those in a similar segment or industry like manufacturing, pharmaceuticals or professional services to get the best insight.

 

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Heather Batyski

About the author…

Heather is an experienced HRMS analyst, consultant and manager. Having worked for companies such as Deloitte, Franklin Templeton and Oracle, Heather has first-hand experience of many HRMS solutions including Peoplesoft and Workday.

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Heather Batyski

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