CIO OPINION automate processes , and unlock new efficiencies that will save time , reduce costs , and boost productivity .
In recent software consulting sessions , the consultant proposed simple configuration changes to enhance the exception management journey for the retail customer ’ s store managers .
Deployment of the proposed solution resulted in a time savings of approximately one hour per store per week , 500 stores * 1 hour * 52 weeks = 26,000 hours and improved the store manager experience .
This was a big win for the retailer . The impact of that one saved hour reverberated across the entire operation , positively impacting store employees and customers .
# 3 Knowledge amplification
Consulting services go beyond simply instructing you and your employees on how to use specific features . Instead , they aim to empower your teams with a deep understanding of the software ' s capabilities , enabling them to become self-sufficient analytical people and innovators .
Furthermore , by imparting their knowledge , consultants empower everyone in your organisation to harness the software ' s full potential , not just IT or end users . This helps foster a culture of continuous improvement and growth .
In one recent software deployment , the customer was advised to change the scope of completing additional configurations to 24 hours of additional training instead . This allowed the functional consultant and the implementation specialist to impart their knowledge and enabled the customer to become self-sufficient for all such future configuration changes .
# 4 Software optimisation
It is no secret that inefficient software usage can result in wasted resources and unnecessary expenses – or that constantly unlocking new value is the best way to render software useful , the key to getting your money ’ s worth . One of the main reasons why many organisations opt into consulting services support is because these experts are highly skilled at recommending software optimisations that eliminate redundancies .
They are also adept at fine-tuning processes and configurations and identifying areas where somebody may need additional training . By helping to ensure your deriving maximum value from your software , consulting teams are helping you achieve a higher ROI , making ongoing consulting services a costeffective choice eventually .
Key takeaways Moving ahead
• If software features designed to enhance business were not part of the minimally viable product then you risk losing money on your software investment .
• Software requires technical support and feature optimisation , just like hardware , but in-house resources will need to move on to the next big rollout .
• Hiring new in-house teams dedicated to ongoing software maintenance and optimisation will take time , including addressing learning curves .
• Without access to experts through consulting services , the business impact of your software investment may disappoint .
• Besides making it easy to transition into the maintenance phase , the consulting team will amplify the value of software in many ways .
• The consulting services team will determine specific needs of each stakeholder and then identify which features align with business goals .
• It is important to lean into your software provider ’ s consulting team , as their job is to stay abreast of changes .
• Consultants empower everyone in your organisation to harness the software ’ s potential , which foster a culture of improvement and growth .
• One of the main reasons why organisations opt into consulting services is because these experts are skilled at recommending software optimisation that eliminate redundancies .
• By ensuring you derive maximum value from your software , consulting teams are helping you achieve a higher ROI .
Technology is ever evolving , and challenges may arise as your business expands or adapts to new market trends . With ongoing consulting services , you will have constant access to a dependable partner who can provide initiative-taking support and problem-solving .
Consultant teams can function as trusted advisors for customers and ensure that their software aligns with their evolving business requirements and helps them stay ahead of the curve .
Investing in ongoing consulting services is not an expense – it is an investment in long-term success . By working with professional services team from software suppliers , you can leverage their consultants ’ expertise , unearth hidden value , and amplify the impact of the software on your business operations .
Remember , the software you have invested in is only powerful if people use it . The ongoing support you will receive from the consulting services team will help you unlock its full value so employees will buy in , and you will get your money ’ s worth . p
46 INTELLIGENTCIO MIDDLE EAST www . intelligentcio . com