Analytics software is a great tool … assuming entrepreneurs actually use it and the software keeps up its end of the bargain. Never choose an analytics software system blindly: research is always recommended, and there’s a different best match for everyone.
Sometimes even the best start to slack off, though, and some entrepreneurs don’t realize it until it’s too late. How can you tell if it’s time to upgrade?
Start by making sure the analytics software you’re using is a good match for the business or project. Don’t go by word of mouth alone, or the most familiar brand name. Once you’ve established which one’s best for you, it’s crucial to keep an eye on the software.
Here are six signs that entrepreneurs might want to consider switching their program.
1. Not enough data
Analytics generates data on things like bounceback rates, page views, which pages are the least popular, and other measures. If you look at the available data and you’re not seeing a smorgasbord, that’s a bad sign. There should be more data than necessary, allowing users to cherry-pick what they really need to watch. If the pickings are slim, it’s not worth it.
2. There’s a filter?
Any good software has an easy-to-use filter so users aren’t bombarded with information they don’t need. The system should be agile and fairly intuitive, and it should allow users to save their preferences. Otherwise, you’ll be re-filtering with every report or — even worse — having to pore over tons of info by hand to find what you need. There’s no such thing as too much data, but there is such a thing as an insufficient filter.
3. Easy reporting
Once a report is printed out, it should be easy for every employee to understand. Mary in accounting might not know what bouncebacks are, but she should be able to glean the meaning from the report. Reports are often handed over to CFOs, CEOs, and board members who should be able to figure out the overall meaning intuitively. If that’s not the case, the software isn’t user-friendly.
4. No updates
Like any other program, analytic software should be updated on a regular basis, preferably automatically. Can’t remember the last time the software had an update? Look into it and see if it’s on a regular schedule. If it’s not, other entrepreneurs are probably getting more regular updates, faster service, and an overall better experience.
5. Failing SEO
Analytics are a key tool in search engine optimization (SEO), but what if nothing’s happening? Assuming everyone involved with SEO is doing what they’re supposed to, the problem might be with the analytics software. It’s meant to serve as a guide, but sometimes guides go off course. If SEO is stagnant or plummeting, it’s time to take action.
6. Taking its time
Whether it’s an update problem or a flaw in coding, if your analytics software runs slowly, that’s wasted time and money. There are plenty of options out there that work quickly and efficiently. Don’t struggle with a slow software program for no good reason.
Agile business intelligence (BI) software puts the user experience first. They’re innovative, affordable, and empower companies and entrepreneurs to succeed. With operational insight, regular support, and an improved process of decision-making, it’s a great tool for any business.
If BI isn’t delivering, it’s time to start looking elsewhere for solutions that are cost-effective, truly help your business, and come with a team of experts who know the meaning of customer satisfaction and achieve it every day.
