The dream of plug and playWe're afraid we have to let the "you buy a suitable system, then simply integrate it and never have to do anything again" promise fall flat. Because this is exactly where we as System integrator from the experience of many customer projects: Take a closer look or there was something else! Because the company's internal system and process landscape is often complex and still based on the "old", transaction-based business model - often referred to as "historically grown". Simply linking the subscription management system to the existing landscape is impossible in practice - even in the SaaS model. We are talking about a challenge here, because subscription management systems have been around for years. grown systems. And especially when the pressure for the fastest possible implementation is very high, cooperation with a system integrator has proven its worth: One is the professional for the system product, the Integration partner adapts the system to the customer's specific requirements and ensures successful integration into the existing system and process landscape.
Step by step towards a functioning subscription management system with the help of a system integrator
1/5: Requirements management
The switch to a digital service will completely change the existing business and associated billing processes in a company. In the past, a product was offered, purchased by a customer, serviced if necessary or a new one was purchased and that was the end of the business relationship for the time being. Today, the focus is increasingly on a long-term Customer relationship which must be actively shaped. As a system integrator, we must work together with the company to determine which Requirements and Functions are actually required in the individual context of the customer.
2/5: Business and IT integration
Once the requirements have been defined, the next step is to discuss the Adjustment requirements to the existing business and IT processes as well as the IT systems. All relevant Interfaces must be observed here - including with external providers. These offer various services, such as regularly checking the validity of a subscriber's credit card. As experienced system integrators, we are also aware of the importance of the IT designs. It is of essential importance for the Developerbut is often underestimated. The design is like an architect's elaborate draft. Without this, the specialists carrying out the work would not know that the building should not only have four external walls and a roof, but also windows and internal walls. The final appearance of the building is therefore planned down to the smallest detail. If there is no clear IT design, the development could go in the wrong direction. The result would be both an extremely increased Time requiredas well as additionally Costs incurred. It is extremely important to pick up the developers and develop precise specifications that are also based on Detailed questions to enter into. At this point, a system integrator with good know-how is indispensable, as he knows what needs to be paid attention to.
3/5: Implementation in the agile model
The implementation takes place in the agile development model. Here, the agile approach and an agile detailed IT design not from our point of view. Based on our extensive experience in customer projects, we have developed and standardized an intelligent combination of both worlds. This solution approach enables fast Response optionfor example, when requirements change. The integrator is available during the process in close exchange with the customer and the product provider.
4/5: Protection
From the Module test up to the End-2-End protection - A good system integrator relies on a Automated testingso that hedging can be implemented in a more time-saving manner; especially when it comes to Regression tests goes.
5/5: Market rollout
It is important that the solutions are adapted to market conditions. Four aspects need to be considered here:
- The Technical aspectthe local IT infrastructure
- The legal aspects in the market
- Cultural aspectse.g. which payment preferences prevail in the market
- The consideration organizational aspects (what works for one location is not necessarily possible at another)
Conclusion
The advantage of an experienced integrator is that he knows what to look out for and what is important. He not only knows the typical Actual processes and hurdles until the successful Connection of a subscription management system. Choosing an inexperienced integrator can have fatal consequences. The most important factor is the temporal aspect. If a system integrator is still in the middle of the implementation Learning process and has not already gained extensive experience, this can lead to delays and thus to increased costs lead. The selection of an inexperienced system integrator could also mean that the solution does not meet the Customer presentations corresponds. This is due to the fact that the integrator does not inform the customer of problems or Suboptimal solutions which he has pointed out from his own Experience can assess.
A good system integrator should therefore Experience and bring a broad spectrum of Industry knowledge have a proven track record. This ensures an understanding of the needs of customers in the respective industry. From a technological point of view, he should also be an absolute Professional be.
What do I need to consider when choosing a subscription management system?
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These other blog posts may also be of interest:
Potential and possible applications of a blockchain-based subscription model
Securing the future of the automotive industry - with the successful switch to subscription models
Billing models in the age of digital services and how to make customers happy in the long term
