Guidelines for selecting DTC software

Once you’ve decided to make a software change, we recommend a detailed internal review of your current software with your users.  Managers and associates will have input that will prepare you for the selection process.  What do they like and dislike about the current software? Are there workarounds that make them inefficient?  Are there things you would like to do that you can’t now and what are your plans for the future?  As you grow does your software scale? 

Once you have a clear picture of what you have now and what you want with a change there are (4) important things to consider that will help identify the DTC software platform that is best for your business.

Is the software designed for wineries? Does it do what you need? Is it easy to use? Does it integrate with the applications you need? Does it solve the issues you have with your current software?

Is there live support and training? Is support available 7 days per week? Does the system provide useful online training materials? Is there support for new employees?

What is the process for migrating to the new software?  Are there reference users available to discuss their experience? What is the process for operational go-live and how are employees supported after?

What are the total costs for using the software? Review each fee that will be charged.  Software fees? Percent of sales fee? Credit card processing fees? Integration fees?  Are the fees fixed or can they be increased at will?

Use these guidelines to prepare and review for selecting software your team will embrace and use to deliver exceptional customer experiences and achieve DTC success.