Needs Analysis
Understanding what all your needs are before implementing a DAM solution is key to success in the adoption of the application that leads to high usage decreasing the time for your return on investment. Most clients ideas of what they want evolve as the process starts which is why it is critical to define who the users are and how they are going to use the system first. The sooner the needs analysis is conducted, the better.
Steps of a Needs Analysis
- Identify the key groups of the company that will benefit from a DAM
- Recruit & engage leaders from these divisions to represent the needs of their users
- Define User groups
- Define levels of access and privileges for User groups
- Establish the work flow starting from where the content originates to how it is managed in the system
- Define the file formats, products, terminology, rights, automated emails, reports
- Define search methodology and criteria
- Deliver a report correlating this information
ROI
All ROI's are done on a case-by-case basis because every infrastructure follows unique processes. Included in a ROI will be projected hard cost savings as well as estimated value savings. In order to determine the ROI, an SDA representative must be able to interview an employee with access to budgets as well as an employee with an in depth knowledge of how the current process functions.
For example:
How many requests a day are made for photos, graphics and logos?
How long does it take for a person to fulfill an order?
How many people does it take to fulfill an order?
Is the content readily available or is there a search required to find the content?
What format does the content exist in and how will it be distributed?
Business Case
The key element to developing an effective business case is to identify the process that needs to be managed and illustrate how this process will improve by implementing a robust DAM system. If a client can explain the current situation then a case may be created on how the future situation will function and create new efficiencies.
For example:
Where are the inefficiencies in managing creative content?
How is content distributed?
Is there a need to collaborate on line?
Who are the key users?
Is the company currently appreciating all the value in it's owned creative assets?
What are the objectives that the DAM will address?
