Tech Triumphs & Trials: Unpacking SMB Software Selection
By Kraig Kleeman
“Diving into SMB software purchasing is akin to embarking on a culinary adventure without a recipe; you know you need to eat, but figuring out how to cook the dish is another story.” — Erik Severinghaus
Introduction
Over the last year, we rolled up our sleeves and dived deep into the world of small to midsize businesses (SMBs) and their software shopping adventures. Trust me, it’s been quite the journey. We chatted with many SMB heroes about their experiences buying software for marketing and sales, you name it. Why? Understanding the hurdles and triumphs in this arena is crucial for anyone stepping into the software ring, especially if your team isn’t the size of a small country.
The Real Deal on Making Choices
Alright, let’s talk decision-making. It’s no news that picking software isn’t like grabbing a coffee. For SMBs, it’s more like threading a needle while riding a roller coaster. You’ve got a few brave souls trying to juggle daily chaos with making a choice that won’t just fit today but will also not turn into a pumpkin tomorrow. The big question is: Will this software grow with us, or will we outgrow it before we even figure out all its features?
The Unsung Heroes: Usability and Support
Now, onto something that hit home for many of the folks we talked to: usability and support. Imagine this: You’ve just signed up for a new tool, and now you’re staring at it, hoping it’ll start doing magic on its own because who has time for a two-week training, right? That’s where ease of use becomes the star of the show. But let’s not forget about support. Picture this – it’s crunch time, and something goes haywire. You need help, and you need it yesterday. That’s when a responsive support team becomes your new best friend. It’s not just about the software; it’s about knowing someone’s got your back when things get sticky.
The Budget Balancing Act
Talking about money is never fun, but let’s dive into it. Every penny counts when you’re not operating with an endless budget. But here’s the kicker—it’s not just about how much you’re shelling out upfront. SMBs are getting more thoughtful about looking at the big picture. What’s the bang for their buck? Will this tool make us faster, stronger, or better? It’s all about the long game—spending wisely now to save or earn more.
Word of Mouth: The Secret Sauce
Ever notice how we all love a good recommendation from someone we trust? That’s gold for SMBs when it comes to picking software. Forget flashy ads; give us gritty, real stories from businesses in the same boat. There’s something comforting about hearing, “Yeah, we tried it, and here’s what happened,” from someone who truly gets it.
Peering Into the Crystal Ball
So, what’s next on the horizon? With all the buzz around AI and machine learning, there’s much to be excited about. But navigating this thrilling yet slightly intimidating unknown territory is like navigating a thrilling yet slightly intimidating unknown territory. The big challenge for SMBs is figuring out how to embrace these advancements without getting lost in the sauce or blowing their budgets on shiny new toys they’re not ready for.
All in All
In wrapping up this little chat, diving into software decisions is like going on an epic quest for SMBs. There are dragons to slay (hello, budget constraints) and treasures to find (the perfect software fit). But armed with the right insights, a clear view of the ROI, and a community of fellow adventurers, the path becomes a lot more manageable. So here’s to making those choices with confidence, learning from each bump along the way, and building businesses that thrive, no matter the size of your team. Let’s keep the conversation going and turn the software maze into a well-marked trail, shall we?
About Erik Severinghaus
Erik Severinghaus is a highly successful entrepreneur, author, and mountaineer. If his accomplishments and aspirations were to draw inspiration from natural icons, he could be described as a fusion of Mark Zuckerberg’s visionary approach to business and Tony Stark’s electrifying approach to saving humanity. He possesses keen business acumen and a flair for captivating customers, investors, and marketing partners.
Erik’s entrepreneurial spirit is boundless, as evidenced by his track record of founding, operating and exiting multiple ventures that have created a combined $600M in value. Erik’s investment skills are striking. He was a founding investor in Hyde Park Angels which recently helped ShipBob achieve unicorn status. He raised $6M startup capital for his newest venture, Bloomfilter, which is growing by triple digits, quarter over quarter.
As an endurance athlete, Erik has conquered some of the world’s tallest peaks, including Mt. Everest in 2018. In his public appearances, Erik is quick to discuss that learning to navigate through the valleys in his business life is what has led him to properly navigate the victories.