Contract Management Software: Selecting the Best Option

December 30, 2024
Contract Management Software: Selecting the Best Option

A contract lifecycle management (CLM) tool enhances the agility and efficiency of legal teams, making it essential to select a solution that aligns with your entire organization.

However, the process of researching and purchasing contract management software for the first time involves unique steps that may be unfamiliar. This guide outlines the software purchasing process, offering professional tips and criteria for comparing CLM options.

Just as contracts circulate among various stakeholders with distinct roles, the software purchasing journey consists of several phases and participants. First-time buyers should recognize the importance of thorough research.

Many newcomers mistakenly believe that acquiring CLM software is akin to buying a TV from a retail store, where a representative suggests models based on a brief discussion. In reality, purchasing contract management software is more comparable to buying a car or a home; it’s a long-term investment that reflects your professionalism to colleagues and clients alike. The more information you gather, the better you can evaluate whether the vendor understands your needs and if their solution meets your expectations.

Understand the Total Cost of Ownership for CLM

With this in mind, let’s explore what to anticipate as you begin assessing CLM software.

Consideration

The consideration phase starts before you even look at specific contract management software options. Engaging with internal stakeholders to grasp the implications of a CLM is your first step.

Current Actions:

  • Engage with your sales team:
    • How do representatives feel about the time required to finalize deals?
    • What are their thoughts on the NDA process?
    • Would they welcome a change in the contract process if it could save them significant time?
  • Consult with IT leadership:
    • Have they considered a tool to organize company contracts?
    • What is their stance on low-code solutions?
  • Discuss with your legal team:
    • Which steps from the current process do they want to retain?
    • What aspects do they wish to enhance or automate?
  • Talk to your finance team:
    • How does the contracting process affect their work and forecasting?

Next Steps: Formulate a clear thesis on the impact of a CLM. For instance: “The ideal CLM will enhance sales efficiency by saving XXX hours and will benefit finance by reducing future renewal costs by $XXX.”

Evaluation

Once you recognize that contract management software could benefit your organization, it’s time to explore your options. We’ll delve into how to compare CLM companies later, but for now, focus on conducting independent research.

Current Actions:

  1. Identify your priorities. What are your objectives for a CLM? What areas require the most assistance? Clarifying your preferences will help you evaluate features later.
  2. Explore review platforms. Websites like G2 and Gartner Peer Insights provide unbiased perspectives on your options.
  3. Examine CLM websites. Review product pages, help documents, and customer testimonials for each CLM.
  4. Network with peers. Engage in legal communities and events to gather insights from others’ experiences with CLMs.

Next Steps: After reviewing top contract management software lists and feedback, select two or three options for further exploration.

Learning

With a shortlist of potential candidates, it’s time to investigate them beyond their marketing materials. Take your time during this phase and request vendors to demonstrate how features work together in a comprehensive manner. One of our onboarding experts advises: “Choosing a vendor after just one or two demos may not lead to a successful project. Use the first demo to confirm core functionalities, then invite two or three vendors for a ‘proof of concept’ stage. Don’t hesitate to ask vendors for a near-ready demo to ensure the solution meets your needs.”

Current Actions:

  1. Schedule a demo. This is your opportunity to see the product in action. The initial demo will provide a broad overview of features, but don’t hesitate to ask how these features integrate with your processes.
  2. Conduct a discovery call. Some companies offer discussions with team members to assess if their product aligns with your goals. Bring your thesis from the consideration phase to this call.
  3. **Involve key stakeholders.

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