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As companies continue to change, they need solutions that will fit their ever-changing business needs. This
often leads to the need for new systems and a selection process.
Based on our experience we have developed a refined Request for Information (RFI) process. The result of this is
a significant lowering of risk and uncertainty and a reduction in the time taken for the procurement process.
Our RFI process is detailed on our 'Financial Systems
Selection' white paper.
How can Emcee assist you in your review/selection process?
The extent and level that you require assistance on a finance system selection project will depend upon the
resource and expertise available within your organisation. It could be possible that you require advice on one
aspect or phase of the project or the whole of the project. The following outlines how we can assist you in
each phase of the project.
Pre-Planning - Systems Review and Process Mapping
Even before the decision is made to source a new system, we are able to assist you in reviewing your current
systems and processes. We have sometimes found that the decision to change a system was an incorrect assumption
and that the problems being encountered could be solved by another method. This review would give you the peace
of mind that selecting a new system is the correct decision.
Once a decision is made to source a new system, we can assist you in mapping your current process, which from
experience we know is a useful method to ensure nothing will be missed out when identifying your needs.
Planning - Identifying Your Needs
We are able to use our experience and expertise to assess your business strategy and how this will impact upon
the selection process and requirements. Given our experience, we are able to provide an overview of a 'complete
solution' and the part that a system plays within it. We have RFI templates which will assist in the RFI
preparation (ensuring all aspects are covered) and that are familiar to vendors. Our in-depth knowledge of the
software market is invaluable as we will be able to quickly identify suitable vendors that fit your requirements.
Evaluation
Attending a vendor demonstration can sometimes be a daunting task as the vendor has a vested interest in
showing you what you want to see (sometimes by 'smoke and mirrors'). Our intimate knowledge of the products and
how they work enables us to attend demonstrations with you and to ask informed questions on your behalf, thus
protecting your interest. During this phase, which is one that you need to have a substantial input to as the
buyer, we are able to give you an independent view and act as a sounding board for your decisions.
Preferred Supplier
Whilst we may be able to assist you in the selection of the preferred supplier, the decision is ultimately that
of the buyer. As in the evaluation phase, we would offer our assistance in the detailed demonstration/testing
stage to ensure all key areas are adequately covered.
Implementation Planning
During this phase we are able to offer our assistance in the preparation of the implementation and project plan
adding our experience to highlight some of the problems and difficulties that you are likely to face.
Beyond the selection process (see Implementation Consultancy)
Our consultants have experience of implementing systems either from a specific application point of view,
project management, vendor liaison or business process re-engineering. These services ensure that you leverage
the maximum benefit from the new system.
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