Questions to Ask During a Veterinary Software Demo
Choosing the right veterinary practice information management software (PIMS) is a critical decision for any veterinary practice manager or owner. The right software can streamline operations, enhance client communication, and improve overall efficiency, while the wrong choice can lead to frustration, wasted resources, and costly mistakes. To make an informed decision, you must ask the right questions during a software demo. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you get started.
1: What are the software’s core features?
Understanding the core features will give you a clear idea of what the software can and cannot do. This helps in evaluating whether the product meets your practice’s unique needs, now and in the future.
Key questions to ask:
- What are this software’s main features and functionalities?
- Does the product include appointment scheduling, patient records, billing, and inventory management?
- What unique features set this software apart from competitors?
2: How user-friendly is the software?
A user-friendly, intuitive interface is crucial for ensuring that your team can easily adopt and effectively use the software without extensive training.
Key questions to ask:
- Can you provide a walkthrough of the user interface?
- How intuitive is the software for new users?
- What kind of training and onboarding support is provided?
3: Is the software customizable?
Every veterinary practice is unique, and customizable software allows you to tailor it to meet your specific needs and workflows.
Key questions to ask:
- To what extent can the software be customized?
- Can you adjust settings for different users and roles within the practice?
- Are customizable templates available for reports and forms?
4: What are the integration capabilities?
Seamless integration with other systems and tools you already use (e.g., laboratory equipment, pharmacy systems, and payment processors) is essential for smooth operations.
Key questions to ask:
- With which systems and tools does this software integrate?
- What are this product’s limitations or compatibility issues with existing systems?
- How does the software handle data migration from other systems?
5: How secure is the software?
Protecting sensitive patient data and ensuring compliance with privacy regulations is paramount for any veterinary practice.
Key questions to ask:
- What security measures are in place to protect patient data?
- How does the software comply with industry regulations and standards?
- Are data backup and recovery plans in place?
6: What are the costs involved?
Understanding the full cost of ownership, including upfront costs, subscription fees, and any additional charges, helps you budget effectively.
Key questions to ask:
- What is the pricing structure (e.g., one-time fee, subscription)?
- Are costs added for updates, support, or extra features?
- Can you provide a detailed cost breakdown?
7: How reliable is your customer support?
Access to responsive and knowledgeable customer support can make a significant difference in resolving issues quickly and minimizing downtime.
Key questions to ask:
- What are your support hours and channels (e.g., phone, email, chat)?
- Is a dedicated support team available for veterinary practices?
- Can you provide typical response time and resolution rate examples?
8: What training and resources are available?
Comprehensive training and resources ensure that your team can fully leverage the software’s capabilities.
Key questions to ask:
- What training options are available (e.g., online, in-person, webinars)?
- Are detailed user manuals or online help centers available?
- Does the vendor offer ongoing training or updates for new features?
9: What are the reporting and analytics capabilities?
Effective reporting and analytics can provide valuable insights into your practice’s performance and help you make informed decisions.
Key questions to ask:
- What types of reports are available?
- Can our team create custom reports and dashboards?
- How easy is exporting data for further analysis?
10: Can you provide existing customer feedback?
Talking with veterinary practices that have successfully implemented the software can help you feel confident about your decision.
Key questions to ask:
- Can you provide feedback from current customers?
- Are case studies or testimonials available?
- What do other veterinary practices say about their experience with the software?
Selecting the right veterinary practice management software is a vital decision that can significantly impact your practice’s efficiency and success. By asking these key questions during a software demo, you’ll be better equipped to make an informed choice that aligns with your practice’s needs and goals. Set up a demo with our Shepherd Veterinary Software team to ensure all your PIMS questions are answered—including ones you didn’t know you had.
