5 ways to ensure the Field Service Automation provider you select remains accountable

Ensure you are buying a complete system. If the software comes from one supplier, the devices from another and the data from another, cracks appear into which every supplier will scurry, blaming one another. Select a provider who supplies and takes responsibility for every part. You need to spend your time on your business, not working out who is fobbing you off.

Do not make large up-front payments. Field-service software has so much potential it is easy to get caught up in buying a promise. Go for the minimum you need to get running. Then you are past promises and onto the actual system. A small amount for data import, training and anything business-specific is reasonable — beware large up-front costs.

Do not purchase software licences; purchase as a service. What keeps a supplier interested if you pay up front? A monthly subscription means they earn your business every month. You are not stuck until you cough up for an upgrade — you always have the latest version.

Also purchase the hardware as a service. Buying tablets up front can be an unwelcome hit. Worse is news that the latest software is incompatible. Hardware on a monthly subscription as part of a total solution means if requirements change, your supplier changes the hardware at no extra cost — and swaps a broken device next day, free of charge.

Keep your options open. If a minimum term is imposed, your supplier is guaranteed your money whether they perform or not. Walking away is a last resort, but if you can walk away at any point it focuses the mind.

If you are looking for a provider whose business model is designed to keep you in control, call Field Force on 01929 557987.