When setting up the marketing department at Jola, I had some decisions to make around suppliers I would use, which would help me to shape and grow the business. As a start-up company back then, I was looking for feature-rich solutions on a very competitive, pay-per-month basis, with no upfront investment. I made a list of the software and services I would need and went online to research potential suppliers.
Trusted suppliers
I started with companies that I had used in the past. Companies with robust solutions I had tried and tested with Account Managers I could pick up the phone to. I updated myself with the latest bells and whistles and checked them against current and potential future requirements.
Recommended suppliers
I then looked at recommended suppliers other trusted marketing professionals and co-workers had used in the past. I collated new information, compared pricing and had a demo of their platforms.
Market leaders
In case I was missing I trick, I looked to the market leaders for inspiration. What did they have that may work for me and how did they compare pricewise?
Best deal
I made my decisions based on the best deal I could negotiate for solutions that met my existing requirements with great support. Having worked with one supplier in the past, I knew I could call or email them at any time and that I would get a useful, timely response. A new supplier had a great piece of software that met all our existing requirements, which we could develop to meet future requirements with ease.
Right choice
I have learnt that going with a supplier that you have concerns about but others want you to use, can be a costly mistake.
When making your decision, make sure you feel comfortable with all the must-haves and test claims about core services such as account management and support. Make sure you are happy with the contract before signing it. Look out for exit penalties, as you need to know that you can end the contract and switch suppliers, if you have made the wrong choice. Realising your mistake and switching suppliers, can put you back in the short-term but save you hassle and money in the long-run.
Sound familiar?
The process I went through is a similar process my partners go through when selecting a new voice and data supplier. They themselves are trusted suppliers to their customers and are being asked for help with upgrading internet connections, phone systems and mobile data solutions. To learn more about Jola as a potential supplier….
