Essential reading for success in your next software selection and implementation. Software selection is the most important task in a software implementation project, as it is your best (if not only) opportunity to make sure that the right software-the software that matches the business requirements-is being implemented. Choosing the software that is the best fit clears the way for a successful implementation, yet software selection is often fraught with issues and many companies do not end up with the best software for their needs. However, the process can be greatly simplified by addressing the information sources that influence software selection. This book is a how-to guide for improving the software selection process, and is formulated around the idea that-much like purchasing decisions for consumer products-the end user and those with the domain expertise must be included. In addition to providing hints for refining the software selection process, this book delves into the often-overlooked topic of how consulting and IT analyst firms influence the purchasing decision, and gives the reader an insider's understanding of the enterprise software market. By reading this book you will: -Learn how to apply a scientific approach to the software selection process. -Interpret vendor-supplied information to your best advantage. -Understand what motivates a software vendor. -Learn how the institutional structure and biases of consulting firms affect the advice they give you, and understand how to properly interpret information from consulting companies. -Make vendor demos work to your benefit. -Know the right questions to ask on topics such as integration with existing software, cloud versus on-premise vendors, and client references. -Differentiate what is important to know about software for improved "implement-ability" versus what the vendor thinks is important for improved "sell-ability." -Better manage your software selection projects to ensure smoother implementations.