Everyday Run State: Pro Edition

Try before you buy (software)

Monica Ozaruk
June 11, 2025

There’s a moment in almost every kickoff call when a client says it. Bright-eyed. Hopeful.

“This software is super customizable!”

And every time, I cringe just a little.

Not because customization is bad. It’s great! But customization before clarity is a recipe for frustration, long implementations and increased spend.

Unless your processes are already clearly defined, responsibilities are mapped out, and your team knows exactly what’s expected of them… you don’t want a custom solution.

You want a best practice.

Let the software lead you.

When you’re in the early stages of building out procurement, projects, invoicing, whatever it is, you don’t need a blank canvas. You need guide rails.

You want the software (or your favourite consultant) to say:

“Here’s how other companies in your industry usually do this. Let’s try it this way first, and see if we need to tweak it for your business.”

Because the truth is, building custom solutions on top of unclear processes just means you’re memorializing your chaos in code.

And that’s not efficiency. That’s just expensive duct tape.

🛠 Try This Today:

Thinking about switching tools? Tempted by a shiny new app that “does everything”?

Start here:

Ask for a demo with your actual workflows (not a sales deck)
Request a trial account and try doing your real work in it
Pay attention to where you hesitate — are you confused because the tool doesn’t fit, or because your process isn’t defined?

If you don’t know exactly what you want, don’t build something custom.

Instead, test it. Borrow it. Run the free version into the ground.

And once your team is clear and confident on what’s working?
Then invest in the high-end solution that actually fits your needs.

See you next week,
Monica