By John Cohen
As Process Improvement Consultants, we are often involved in software evaluation and software conversions. One of the most prevalent mistakes we see is the notion that once a software package is successfully installed, no further serious attention is required. “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” seems to be the motto.
No, no, and no. Virtually every software package should be professionally reviewed annually, or at least every two years. Like performing oil changes on your car, calling in your software consultant for a one or two day review is an inexpensive practice which can yield many benefits, both current and long term.
Here are five broad questions which management should ask:
1. Has the organization kept current on software updates, patches, etc.?
2. Is the company using the current software modules in the manner the software was originally designed for? Has the software lost some functionality over the years by employee turnover?
3 Can the organization benefit financially by upgrading the software to a newer version, adding modules, or changing the hardware configuration?
4 Are the reporting and budgeting capabilities of the software under-utilized because the organization is accustomed to using Excel spreadsheets?
5 Has unnecessary data been purged from the system?
NPA Consultants are specialists in Policies, Procedures, Internal Controls and Financial Reporting. We help accounting departments run “better, faster, cheaper,” and Boards of Directors/senior managements insure that they are performing their fiduciary duties at the highest possible level. We are happy to answer any questions. Contact us at info@NPAccountants.org or 617 694 4600.