We have just a couple of posts left before wrapping up our series on selecting and evaluating project management software.

After compiling and scoring the different vendors, as indicated in the last post (part 1), you want to decide on a final project management software tool or a couple of final tools. Either way, I recommend that you ask for a second demonstration. The purpose of this demonstration is to confirm your previous findings, identify areas that you missed in the first demonstration, and go a little deeper to make a final decision. If you still have two vendors in the running, this will help you make a final decision. If you have narrowed the list down to one, this will still help you confirm your decision. You will find things that you missed in the first go-around.

In addition, you should use this as an opportunity to start planning your implementation. How will you use and configure the software? How are you going to implement your processes within the software? What will you try to accomplish in the first phase? Second phase? This all helps to get started on the right foot and make sure you are making the right decision.

You can also use this as an opportunity to interact with the vendor about the project management software implementation. Ask questions about this. What does the implementation entail? Who will do it? What do they recommend as a best practice? This is another tool in your belt for a successful implementation.

Now there are just a couple of things to wrap up...