Software Buyer’s Guide

A Practical Framework for Evaluating and Selecting the Right Software Partner

Stage 1: Catalyst Event

Purpose:
Identify the specific event or realization that made you aware that the current system/process isn’t sustainable. Without a clear catalyst, it’s difficult to
create urgency or leadership buy-in.

Action Items:

Reflect on what specifically triggered the need for change. Was it:

• A failed audit or compliance gap?
• A client escalation or lost business?
• Productivity or reporting issues?
• Growth or scaling limitations?
• Remote employees?

Anticipated Challenges:

• Teams may remember the event differently or minimize its impact.
• Leadership might not feel the same urgency yet.
• Without data or examples, it can sound like a one-off complaint rather than
  a systemic problem.

Outcomes of Stage 1:

You can clearly explain what happened. There’s agreement that something
needs to change, creating the foundation for forward momentum.

See the rest of the stages by downloading the guide:

• Stage 2: Why Now
• Stage 3: Define the Details
• Stage 4: Solutions Exploration
• Stage 5: Plan the Rollout
• Plus a checklist you can start using today!