Best Practices
8 min read
Dec 5, 2024

5 Expensive Software Mistakes Perth SMEs Make (And How to Avoid Them)

Don't fall into these common traps when choosing business software. Learn from other Perth businesses' experiences.

Perth SMEs waste over $2.3 million annually on software that doesn't deliver. Here are the 5 most expensive mistakes we see repeatedly, and how to avoid them.

Mistake #1: Choosing Enterprise Software for SME Needs

Perth law firm spent $85,000 on Salesforce in year one. Used less than 20% of features. Switched to light CRM and saved $60,000 annually.

Solution: Choose software built for your business size. Enterprise features you'll never use are expensive overhead.
Mistake #2: Not Calculating Total Cost of Ownership

Perth construction company saw "$99/month" for project management software. Actual cost: $18,000/year after users, integrations, training, and add-ons.

Solution: Include setup, training, integrations, user licenses, and ongoing support in your budget.
Mistake #3: Ignoring User Adoption

Perth medical clinic bought comprehensive practice management system. Staff found it too complex. Still using paper charts 18 months later.

Solution: Involve end users in selection. Prioritize simplicity and intuitive design over feature lists.
Mistake #4: Poor Integration Planning

Perth retailer chose inventory system that couldn't integrate with Xero. Spent $12,000 on custom integration. Still requires manual data entry.

Solution: Map your existing systems first. Ensure new software integrates with your accounting and core business tools.
Mistake #5: No Clear Success Metrics

Perth agency bought $15,000 project management platform. Can't measure if it improved efficiency. Considering switching to another system.

Solution: Define specific, measurable goals before purchase. Set benchmarks for ROI, time savings, or efficiency gains.

The Perth SME Software Selection Framework

Use this 5-step process to avoid expensive mistakes:

1

Audit Current Process

Document what you do now, pain points, and time spent on manual tasks

2

Define Success Metrics

Set specific, measurable goals (e.g., "reduce invoice processing time by 50%")

3

Calculate True TCO

Include all costs: licenses, setup, training, integrations, ongoing support

4

Involve End Users

Get input from people who'll actually use the system daily

5

Start Small, Scale Smart

Begin with core functionality. Add features as you grow and understand needs

Avoid These Costly Mistakes
Get expert guidance on choosing the right software for your Perth business.