VULA
Version 1.0
Free Resource
Free Resource
Free Business Resource
Software Buying Checklist
Choose software with confidence, not guesswork.
Selecting business software is a significant investment. This checklist helps you define your needs, evaluate vendors objectively, and avoid costly mistakes.
Before You Buy
- Define the business problem you are solving.
- Consult key stakeholders before shortlisting vendors.
- Document your requirements clearly.
- Set a realistic budget, including implementation.
- Agree on how you will measure success.
Business Requirements
| Requirement | Priority (High / Med / Low) | Desired Outcome |
|---|---|---|
Questions to Ask Vendors
- Can the software integrate with our existing systems?
- What implementation support is included?
- What training is provided for our team?
- What security standards do you follow?
- Can we export our data at any time?
- What are the ongoing support arrangements?
- Are there any hidden costs or add-ons?
- Can you provide customer references in our sector?
Total Cost of Ownership
- Licence or subscription fees
- Implementation and configuration
- Data migration
- Training
- Ongoing support and maintenance
- Customisation
- Integrations with other systems
- Future upgrades
- Internal staff time
Vendor Comparison
| Criteria | Vendor A | Vendor B | Vendor C |
|---|---|---|---|
Warning Signs
⚠High-pressure sales tactics or artificial urgency
⚠No clear implementation plan or timeline
⚠Hidden pricing discovered after initial quote
⚠Long lock-in contracts with steep exit penalties
⚠Unwillingness to provide customer references
Final Decision
Which solution best aligns with your business goals, budget, and long-term strategy?