Everyone makes mistakes. But avoiding mistakes when making business intelligence (BI) purchases is crucial. Companies invest a great deal in their BI projects, and want to get it right the first time around. Avoiding these mistakes can help you keep your business intelligence projects on task, on budget, and on time.
Don’t fall for these business intelligence mistakes. Know what to watch out for as you consider your options.
- Mistake #1: Falling in love with one feature: Sure, it’s great data collection and a seamless backup. But what about integration with your existing systems? It’s easy to fall in love with one single feature of a business intelligence software system. But just as falling in love with a pretty face can lead to a disastrous romance, so too can falling in love with a single feature that blinds you to the rest of the system’s flaws leading you down the wrong path. Consider the system’s entire suite of features and how well they meet your business requirements.
- Mistake #2: Leaving key team members out of the decision: So Mort from accounting is a pain in the neck to work with. Sorry to disappoint you, but he should still be on the team. So should Jean from Marketing and David from sales, and all the rest of your company’s leaders. A representative from crucial departments who will both use and contribute data to the business intelligence systems is important for the project’s success. Without the Morts, Jeans and Davids of this world you’ll end up with a system that meets some of your staff’s requirements but falls far short of others.
- Mistake #3: Neglecting mobile users: It’s an increasingly mobile world out there. Mobile access should be considered right from the start as part of your business intelligence assessment. Even if you don’t think you need it now, chances are good you’ll need it in the future. Make mobile part of the decision making process right from the start.
Good business intelligence systems can help your business run more efficiently and effectively. Fortunately, it’s fairly easy to avoid these common mistakes.
For help finding business intelligence solutions that meet your company’s needs, contact BAASS Business Solutions. We offer expert insights and guidance through the process of choosing a business intelligence solution that will help your company be successful. Call us at 866-260-5302.
