Before you dive into any new **SaaS** product, it’s crucial to know what you’re getting into. With so many options out there, it can get overwhelming—so let’s simplify things with some essential checks!
Do Your Homework on the Developer and the Company
Doing your homework on the developer and the company behind a SaaS product is key. Start by checking their website. A reputable company usually has a professional-looking site with clear information about their products.
Look for Reviews: Search for reviews from users who have already tried the product. Websites and forums can give you insight into others’ experiences. This helps you understand any common issues and the company’s reliability.
Check Their Social Media: A strong social media presence often indicates a company cares about its customers. Follow them on platforms like Twitter or LinkedIn to see how they interact with users.
Company Background: Investigate how long the company has been in business. A longer history can mean stability. Look for information about their team and their experience in the industry.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to their support team with questions. Prompt responses can give you an idea of their customer service quality.
Take your time to evaluate the developer, and you’ll be in a better position to make a wise decision on your SaaS purchase.
Check what Features Have Been Rolled Out Recently
When looking at a new SaaS product, it’s important to check what features have been rolled out recently. Regular updates show a company is active and committed to improvement.
Look for Release Notes: These notes usually list new features and improvements. They let you see how often the software is updated.
User Feedback: Check forums and social media to find out what users think about new features. Are they helpful? Do they fix any issues?
Roadmap Access: Some companies share their future plans. This can help you know what’s coming next. It’s a good sign if they listen to user requests.
Compare the features with similar products. This can help you see if they’re keeping up with industry trends and meeting customer needs.
Finding out about new features helps you make smarter choices. You want a product that will continue to evolve and serve you well.
Look at Their Roadmap
Looking at the roadmap of a SaaS product is a smart step. A roadmap shows future features and updates. It helps you see what the company plans to improve and when.
Understand the Timeline: Roadmaps typically have timelines. They give you an idea of how soon changes might come. Look for clear dates and milestones.
Feature Releases: Check what features are planned. Are they things you need? Knowing what’s next can help you decide if the product is right for you.
User Input: Some companies ask for user feedback on their roadmaps. This is a good sign. It often means they care about what customers think.
Update Frequency: A regularly updated roadmap shows the company is active. It’s a sign of dedication and progress. If they haven’t updated in a while, be cautious.
Looking closely at the roadmap will give you insights. It helps you understand if this product is a long-term fit for your needs.
Chat with Their Support
Chatting with the support team can reveal a lot about a SaaS product. It’s a great way to test how responsive and helpful they are. Start by asking simple questions about the product.
Response Time: Notice how fast they respond. Quick replies show good customer service. If they take too long, it might be a red flag.
Quality of Answers: Pay attention to how well they answer your questions. Are they clear and informative? You want a team that understands their product well.
Availability: Check what hours their support team is available. Is it 24/7? Limited hours can be inconvenient for users across different time zones.
Support Channels: Explore different ways to reach support. Options like chat, email, and phone make it easier to get help when you need it.
Talking to support not only helps you with your concerns but also gives you insight into the company’s focus on customer satisfaction.
Decide Whether the Product Fills a Current or Upcoming Need
Deciding whether a SaaS product meets your current or upcoming needs is crucial. Start by listing your specific requirements. Think about what problems you’re trying to solve.
Current Needs: Can the product address your immediate pain points? Make sure it has the features you need right now. Spending on software that doesn’t help you today is not wise.
Future Needs: Consider where your business will be in 6 to 12 months. Will this product still be useful? It’s smart to think ahead. Look for options that can grow with you.
Scalability: Check if the software can handle increased usage. If you grow, you want a product that can keep up without a hitch.
Flexibility: See if the product offers customizable features. This can help you adapt it to changing demands.
By weighing current and future needs, you’ll make a sound decision. Investing in the right tool today can save you headaches tomorrow.
