8 Question to Ask in a Software Demo

When demoing software, many people sit back and let the sales person to their thing. Too many customers forget that it's really up to them to decide if they're a good fit. One of the best ways to really make the most of your software demos is to come in with questions.

Asking pointed questions with purpose will help you uncover:

• What kind of support they offer customers
• How they treat customers after they've signed up
• If this software will be a fit for you in the long run

If you're new to buying software, you can check out our ultimate guide to help you get started.

Here are 8 questions we suggest you ask in software demos — and why you should ask them. Feel free to add your own or take some away.

1. How often do you update your software?

Why you should ask: 

If you’re going to be investing in software, you want to make sure that the company you work with invests in it too. There’s nothing worse than choosing a tool and setting it up, only for it to be broken in a year. 

Continual updates and upgrades to software show that a company is listening to their customers, that they’re focused on your experience, and that they’re invested in building a high quality product. 

2. What training and set up support do you offer for your customers? How much does it cost?

Why you should ask:

Roofr is unique in that we don’t charge any extra for implementation, but many software companies do. These additional costs can come out of the woodwork after you’ve signed a contract. 

Before confirming a submission, make sure they have FREE support to help you make the most of your tool. 

3. What process is in place at your company for customer feedback?

Why you should ask:

Asking if you can provide feedback isn’t the same as inquiring about their feedback process. What actually happens when you send feedback to them? This question will tell you a lot about how much they value their customers. 

4. Who would be my point of contact if I have any questions or concerns if I choose your CRM/software?

Why you should ask:

Do you have a dedicated customer support person? Is there an easy way to contact the team and speak to an actual human being as opposed to waiting on a chatbot for a response? How long does it normally take them to get back to customers? Something to think about. 

5. What features or tools are you planning on adding to your CRM/software?

Why you should ask:

Any software company should have plans already in place for what they want to build next. Even if it’s updating current features and functionality, there should be a plan in place. If they can’t answer this question

6. How many users can I have on this tool? How much is it to add more?

Why you should ask:

This is another sneaky way many software and CRM tools can increase costs. Paying per seat is common for a lot of CRMs. Ask upfront. 

Remember that your CRM should work for you. If you really need 5-10 people using your software, make sure you choose one that allows for unlimited seats. Don’t try to fit your team into a software. Your processes will suffer. 

7. Do other businesses like mine use your tool? Can you give me any examples of how their process works in your tools? Do you have customer case studies?

Why you should ask:

Aside from Roofr, there are few software tools out there made specifically for roofing businesses. This industry is so unique, and there are particular processes that don’t apply to other fields. Roofing companies may struggle to find a way to use tools that aren’t built for them. 

Ask about roofing companies who use their tools. See if they have case studies they can share. This question will help you decide if you can see yourself using this tool every day to grow your business. 

8. What type of security is in place for data protection for my customer’s info?

Why you should ask: 

If you’re going to be storing customer data, personal information, and collecting payments, security is key. It’s something your customers care about too. Asking this question and being able to convey this to your customers can help differentiate you from your competitors. 

Asking questions in software demos

Hopefully with this list behind you, you can feel empowered in the next software demo you do. These questions are aimed to help you better understand who a company is, the type of support they'll offer you as a customer, any hidden fees they're not telling you about, and whether or not their tool is the best fit for your business.

Remember to stay picky, choose your software carefully, and to keep your eye focused on on your goals.

For more resources on purchasing software, check these out:

A guide and template for evaluating current and future software tools

How the right software can save you money

5 things to look for in a payment processor

A guide to online roofing proposals