1. Painful Implementations of Telecom Lifecycle Management Software
While new technologies often promise improved productivity and reduced costs, the implementation process required can be lengthy and painful. Unfortunately, Telecom Lifecycle Management software is no exception. Expert oversight is required to reduce the implementation time and achieve the best possible outcomes.
Even with excellent guidance, the process still takes time. Switching TLM software means undertaking numerous, massive tasks. All vendor invoices must be pointed to the new vendor platform, integrations with HR and accounting systems must be set up and tested, costs must be allocated, and service inventory must be rebuilt. This takes both time and a large dedication of internal resources.
2. Lengthy TLM Contracts
Minimum contracts are often required to procure the services of many skilled service providers. This forces you to make a sizable commitment of both time and funds. It also creates a barrier to entry that prohibits you from ‘dipping a toe in the water’ of a better solution.
Ideally, service providers enable you to enter month-to-month contracts. As my colleague Megan recommended, engage with service providers who retain your business by delivering good service, not ensnaring you in legal traps.
3. Delays in Savings
Switching to a new TLM provider generally requires the following steps:
- Issue an RFP and negotiate a contract = 3 – 6 months
- Implement software = 3 – 6 months
- Finally begin to start realizing savings — approximately 12 months later
Starting from scratch with a new TLM software and services provider means denying your organization cost-savings and service improvements for at least a year.
Move without The Pain of Moving
It would be wonderful to move to a new home without any of the pain of actually moving. No bubble wrap. No boxes. No struggling with decisions over what stays or goes. Just wake up the next morning already settled and established in the new neighborhood.
But none of us currently lives in utopia, so let me get back to reality.
There are multiple, painful barriers to switching TLM software providers, so what can an organization do?
Examine the true source of your dissatisfaction. Often, the problem is in service delivery, not the functionality of the TLM software application itself. So, hire a new TLM service delivery firm who can work with your existing software implementation. Skip the painful move to a new software altogether.
We call it, “Bust the Bundle.” Contact us and let’s discuss if we can alleviate your pain.
