With so many products to choose from where do you begin? With you, your employees and of course your business. The very first step is to make a list (and yes, write it down) of what you expect to gain from this purchase. Gain vs costs including costs of training and the associated costs of yours and employees' time is a very important comparison to make. Some considerations you may want to think about are:

1. What types of information do I need the software to track? 2. What types of reports do I need, showing what data, in what format? 3. Are there particular functions my company can not do without? 4. Who will be using the program? And how many people will be using the program? 5. How comfortable are you and your employees using software and computers in general? 6. Are there programs that you are already familiar with - do you want to consider a program with a similar format? 7. How much time do I have to devote to the research, installation and training of a new program? 8. Will I need to invest in new computers, server equipment, operating systems, etc? 9. What is my budget for the program, installation, set-up, data transfer if needed, training and any new equipment?

Once you have answered these questions you have a starting point for your research. At this time you can go ahead and do the research yourself, however it could save you some time and maybe a costly mistake to bring in a professional, someone who is familiar with what software packages are available and what they can do for your business. They should also be able to offer you services such as installation, set-up, perhaps data transfer if you are moving from one package to another, and on-going training and support. By having the answers to the above questions you will be able to clearly define your needs and requirements thus saving time and money. Whatever you do, do not take shortcuts in making such a critical business decision. The right choice will be a great investment, the wrong could be a nightmare.