If you require a software vendor/supplier that will cover most of your businesses’ IT needs, then this article will cover some of the most important factors to consider when doing so.
Windows software is heavily utilized throughout the world, with the main two competitors of Microsoft being Apple and Linux. But if we are to compare all three, Microsoft would come out on top as the most heavily utilized operating system out there.
Microsoft allows vendors to redistribute its software to companies and businesses, as oppose to them directly going to Microsoft for it. But large companies require more than the product when dealing with vendors, and that’s precisely what we’re going to focus on in this article.
1. Figure Out What You Need
Before you start interviewing potential vendors that will supply you with Windows software, it’s crucial to understand what your requirements are. Some of the best software consultants in the world suggest you separate your needs into a “must-have” and a “nice to have” section. Depending on what you need for your supplier, you can start interviewing potential candidates.
2. Credentials & Certifications
The best way to determine whether a supplier is right for you is to look into their background. This can be crucial for the success of your business, as any potential technology partner or supplier needs to be throughout vetted before stepping into business. The best place to start would be to understand how long they’ve been in the business.
Are the suppliers constantly growing or downsizing? Another important thing to inquire about is their credentials. How credible is the supplier? Are previous customers satisfied with their business? Are they in any way acknowledged by Microsoft or credited? Most windows software suppliers will be partnered with Microsoft, such as windowsoemsw.com which are gold-partnered with them.
3. Can They Scale?
Software solutions need to be upgraded if your business potentially grows in the future. As a CIO, you need to ask and understand the level of customization and scalability of a potential software solution. But in the case of windows operating systems, scalability if often addressed on the spot with your supplier. In the ideal scenario, your supplier will have no problem matching your software needs as your company grows. In the worst-case scenario, failing to address scalability issues will usually mean re-evaluating your current business deal with your supplier.
4. Hidden & Additional Fees
A major deal-breaker when it comes to providing software solutions are those tedious hidden & additional fees that can usually be found by your lawyer as you finish up the contract. These fees usually come in the form of in-person training, installation fees, document management services, annual maintenance fees, monthly support costs, etc. Another deal-breaker is a thing called provisions, which allow a vendor to increase his fees during the length of the contract.
Provisions come in all shapes and sizes, such as preventing you to get out of the contract after X amount of time if the supplier is performing poorly. Always make sure to include a provision that allows you to get out of contracts such as these. Having the option to break the contract if you’re not satisfied with the service will always play into your hand.
Kim Marks 
Nicola Holder