Attending the Community Summit is an invaluable opportunity to connect with industry experts, discover new solutions, and find the right partners for your business. However, it’s easy to overlook some critical aspects that can hold you back from achieving what you need from the conference.
Here are some common mistakes to avoid to ensure you get the most out of your Summit attendance so that you come back informed with the best strategies to tackle your business challenges and improve your business operations to better serve your customers’ needs.
1. Not Thinking About Integration Strategies
One of the biggest mistakes attendees make is not considering integration strategies.
As we’ve said in a previous blog, more and more businesses are looking to unify their systems to reduce siloed departments, gain seamless data flows, and enhancing overall efficiency which essentially impacts their bottom line. This is key when you want to optimize your ERP and CRM systems.
Before engaging with potential partners, have a clear understanding of your current systems and ask specific questions about the best strategies to integrate your systems.
2. Not Having a Goal for Their Attendance
Going to the Community Summit without a clear goal can lead to a scattered and unproductive experience. Whether you’re looking to solve specific business challenges, explore new technologies, or find a new partner, having a defined objective will help you focus your efforts and make the most of your time.
3. Failing to Research Partners/Vendors
Walking into a summit without prior research on the partners and vendors present can be overwhelming. Take the time to research who will be there, their offerings, and how they align with your business needs. This preparation will enable you to ask informed questions and make meaningful connections.
4. Overlooking the Importance of Collaboration of the ERP/CRM Team
A cohesive ERP and CRM team is crucial for successful implementation and ongoing support. Many companies have siloed departments that lead to inefficiencies and miscommunication. When evaluating potential partners, inquire about how their ERP and CRM teams collaborate and ensure they can provide a unified strategy for your overall business systems.
5. Only Focusing on Cost
While cost is an important factor, it shouldn’t be the sole consideration when choosing a partner. Focusing only on the price can lead to overlooking the quality of service, support, and the long-term value a partner can provide. Evaluate the overall value, including expertise of your current and future system, support, and the ability to meet your specific needs like customization and integration skills or industry expertise.
6. Ignoring the Importance of Post-Implementation Support
The relationship with your partner doesn’t end after the implementation. Ongoing support is critical to address any issues, optimize the system, and ensure it continues to meet your evolving needs. Make sure to ask about the level of post-implementation support and how they handle ongoing services.
7. Not Considering Customization and Scalability
Your business is unlike any other and might not be served best by a generic, off-the-shelf solution. Your chosen solutions should offer flexibility for personalization based on your unique needs and an ability to expand as your business grows. Request for instances where they have created bespoke solutions for previous clients.
8. Overlooking User Training and Adoption
The effectiveness of a new system is largely dependent on its users. Without proper training and support, user adoption can be a significant challenge. Inquire about the training resources and programs the partner offers to ensure your team can effectively use the new system.
9. Neglecting Data Security and Compliance
Ensuring data protection and adherence to standards is vital, particularly in sectors with rigorous rules and guidelines. Ensure that the solutions and partners you consider have robust security measures and can demonstrate compliance with relevant regulations. Ask for evidence of their security practices and compliance certifications.
10. Forgetting to Ask for References and Case Studies
References and case studies provide valuable insights into a partner’s capabilities and track record. Don’t forget to ask for these to understand how they have helped other clients achieve success. This information can give you confidence in their ability to deliver on their promises.
Speak to TMC’s Senior Consultants at Booth #927
Avoiding these common mistakes can help you make the most of your summit experience and find the right partners to support your business goals. By thinking about integration strategies, setting clear goals, researching partners, and considering factors beyond cost, you’ll be better equipped to make informed decisions and drive your business forward.
We encourage you to consider these as you make your way around the Summit and to stop by at our booth #927. TMC’s top consultants are excited to provide you with insights customized to your unique requirements. To guarantee you have the opportunity to speak with our experts, schedule an appointment beforehand to arrange a meeting during the conference. We are committed to helping you determine the perfect solutions for your team. We look forward to meeting you at the Summit!
