10 Ways to Choose the Best Workflow Automation Software

There’s no question that organizations are increasingly looking for ways to streamline recurring processes. In fact, the workflow automation...

There’s no question that organizations are increasingly looking for ways to streamline recurring processes. In fact, the workflow automation market is growing at 20% annually and is likely to reach $5 billion by next year.

But what with all the workflow management systems available, you may be wondering how to find one that’s right for you. To help, here’s what you should know about choosing the right workflow automation software.

What is Workflow Automation?

It’s basically a way to make the flow of tasks, information, and documents across work activities perform independently, as per defined business rules. Such workflow automation software consolidates multiple business processes.

Top 10 Ways to Select the Right Workflow Automation Software

Here are some steps you can take:

1. Determine Which Tasks Need Automating

Your first task is to recognize your organizational needs and what systems need upgrading. Particularly for business owners with relatively small workforces, it’s crucial to determine which tasks promote redundancies.

2. Understand System Capabilities

Whichever automation tool that’s selected will become an essential part of your business. Thus, it’s vital that you first fully understand the features and characteristics of the software in which you’re interested. For example, if your goal is to improve marketing, then you must ascertain that the tool you’re considering can increase lead counts or help you craft a formidable marketing strategy.

There will likely be functions the software may not be able to perform. It’s your task, then, to weigh the pros and cons of each system being considered.

3. Consider Software Cost

Most information technologies will require upgrades. However, if the software calls for frequent updates and maintenance, and is onerously pricey to boot, you may want to keep looking.

4. Determine Integration Capabilities

It’s crucial to determine whether the workflow management system you have your eye on can be seamlessly integrated with your current tools. You want all your tools to work together cohesively.

5. Determine Who Will Use the System

You’ll need to determine how many employees will use the system. Will it be the entire organization or a select group of employees? Perhaps some external stakeholders might use the tool. In making the determination, keep in mind the business’s growth and scalability.

6. Acknowledge Quality Control Measures

Workflow automation software requires quality control. Because bugs are almost inevitable, you must have proper measures in place that don’t pose a risk to your organizational data.

7. Find a Tailored Solution

It’s not the best move to choose a certain system just because a competitor has it. For one thing, every organization is different, even those in the same fields. Software that works for your cross-town rival may cause problems for your company. This is where a tailored solution might be best.

8. Pick the Right Time for Software Implementation

Finding a tool to automate a single process is one thing, but if multiple workflows require automation, you’ll need to determine the least-disruptive time within your organization for implementation.

9. Understand Service Needs

Any software you invest in will have service options. Before investing in a system, you should fully understand what services come with it. This can help save time and money down the line.

10. The More User Friendly, the Better

The idea behind automation is to avoid redundancies and getting stuck in the same task for extended periods. However, the system won’t be of much use if it’s not easy for your people to use or if there’s a protracted learning curve.

In the end, there are steps you can take when going about choosing the right workflow automation software. While such technology can be immensely valuable to you and your business, it’s crucial to ensure the system’s a good fit.