Choosing the right BPA solution

You have reached the point where your business has decided to adopt a BPA solution. Before making any decisions or hit the market and choose a product solely based on its brand, it would be advisable to consider a few important parameters that will ultimately dictate your final decision.

 1. Why does your business need a BPA solution?

Start by identifying the issues you need to resolve. Then, consider which specific BPA features you’ll need to actually use; this will reveal why you need such a solution. Note that, if you’re having problems related to workflows – but not to workflow automation – these will have to be prioritized as the first ones to be resolved.

2. Who will be using the BPA solution?

In order to have a successful project, it is advisable to give end users the opportunity to offer some input regarding the options you’re considering to purchase, as this will help reduce the stress and discontent that may arise. Furthermore, knowing in advance what will be required to train your employees, will help you make the right decision as to what solution you should prefer.

3. What features do you want your BPA solution to have?

It is recommended that you prepare a list with all the desired features; this list may prove to be useful while checking out the options available in the market. If you do not know in advance what features you require to meet your needs, do not expect anyone else to identify them and offer you a ready solution. The right vendor will simply focus on your needs and perhaps make suggestions for something extra.

4. Do you need integration with the existing solutions?

It is always helpful to know what will need to be customized and what not. Additionally, if you have already developed some software solutions that you believe they can be customized, this knowledge can help you discover new ways for even greater functionality.

Once you have selected a specific solution, you should pay attention to the following:

Hidden costs

Are there any expenses you have not foreseen? Make sure you have not omitted to take into account certain expenses, such as the cost of personnel training, consulting services, customization and additional personnel (full-time or part-time).

BPA impact estimation

In order for a BPA solution to be successful, you’ll need to have determined the key performance indicators (KPIs) for your processes in advance. In this way, you’ll be able to measure the actual impact of the automation process.

Expandability

The needs to expand depend on the size of your business and its growth prospects. If you own a start-up or have clear indications that your business is about to grow, you need to ensure that your software will be expandable. This ability is likely to make the difference between success and failure when it comes to your BPA project, both now and in the future.