Choosing the right AMS is crucial for the efficient operation and growth of your association. Whether upgrading from an existing system or adopting one for the first time, asking the right questions throughout the search process can make a vital difference in selecting the right partner. Below are five major categories to gather insights on, with some example questions to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding the provider’s release history will give insight into their commitment to product development and improvement.
A provider that regularly updates and enhances their system demonstrates responsiveness to user needs and adaptability to technological advancements. If there’s no evidence the potential provider has made important changes to their system in the past 12 months, they probably won’t be making any in the next 12 months either, and you might be looking at stagnant software. Having a provider that constantly innovates will allow your association to grow and evolve alongside it.
The insights of the provider’s current customers can provide transparency into how the AMS delivers quality service and support.
Feedback from current customers can reveal the provider’s strengths and weaknesses in customer support, usability, and overall satisfaction. If a potential provider doesn’t have a rigorous process for collecting customer satisfaction metrics and responding to them, the happiness of their customers is most likely not a priority.
In today’s interconnected digital landscape, integrating your AMS with other systems is crucial for operational efficiency.
Clear and accessible API documentation facilitates seamless integrations and ensures your AMS can adapt to future technological needs and advancements.
Smooth data migration is essential to minimize disruption during the AMS implementation.
A provider with a structured data migration process and experience handling similar migrations can help mitigate risks and ensure a successful transition to your new AMS.
Successful project management throughout implementation ensures your project stays on schedule and within budget.
A provider with a proactive project management approach can anticipate and address challenges, maintain clear communication, and ultimately ensure a smooth and timely project.
Selecting an AMS provider can be challenging - especially with so many options. Nonetheless, it’s a significant decision that impacts the efficiency and growth of your association. Asking about these five major categories will help you and your staff gain valuable insights into the provider’s capabilities, support, and alignment with your association’s goals. Taking the time to thoroughly evaluate these aspects should empower you to choose the right provider that supports your association’s long-term success.