Tips on Evaluating Software

1.                 Evaluate Your Needs

Take some time to consider what you would like and need for your new system to do, document it and refer to it during your selection process. It is easy to get lost in a flurry of functions and features of different software systems that can make you forget what it was that you initially set out to obtain. Note those items that your current system lacks or areas that it is weak in, as well as those that function well. Get information on what is available in the marketplace and also note those features that you would like a new system to possess as well.

acentec can provide you with a comprehensive list of frequently asked questions and features to help you evaluate the requirements you will have for a new software system. 

2.                 Ask for a Demonstration

When you have narrowed your search to a select number of vendors that you feel most meet your needs, ask for a demonstration of the software. Demonstrations are helpful in that you can have a representative from the software company give you a presentation and you are able to see the software in an up-close and personal arena. During the demonstration, you can ask about specific features of the system and how they compare with your list of needs. The presenter should be able to tell you much more about the system than is often outlined in product literature.

Acentec is able to conduct demonstrations at your convenience either via the internet or onsite. Acentec representatives are highly trained, knowledgeable and have been in the medical software industry for over a decade, and are willing to use their knowledge and experience to help you find the right system.   

3.                 Ask for References that are using the software and version you are shown

When you determine that you are interested in obtaining a particular system, ask your vendor for a list of references that you may contact. It will help you to get a user-end point of view of the system. You can feel free to ask questions in a more candid manner than many people are comfortable in asking the vendor directly. The end-user will likely understand and remember what it was like trying to select a new system and will be more than helpful in providing information and may even be able to point out things that you would not have normally thought to ask.

acentec has an extensive list of references and, for most specialties, will be able to give you references that are of your specialty and are comparable in size to your own. acentec is proud of the network of reference-able client sites that we have built up across the country. We encourage you to ask for a list of references that you can contact. 

4.                 Conduct Site Visits

In addition to asking for references, if your schedule permits, you should ask your vendor for a list of sites that you may visit. By conducting a site visit, you will be able to see the software in action, dealing with a real staff, real doctors and real patients. A site visit will also give you some time to spend with the staff and get a real look at what using the system is really like.   

Acentec is pleased with the relationships that we have developed with our clients. Because Acentec has made customer service a high priority and is committed to the satisfaction of our clients, our clients are very willing and helpful in hosting site visits.

5.                 Don’t be Afraid to Ask Questions

Always keep in mind that you are entitled to ask as many questions as needed in order to be sure that the system you select is indeed the right one for your practice. Acentec knows how difficult searching for a new software system can be. We are here to make the process as pleasant as we can. Just let us know how we can help!