How To Make the Case for EHS&S Software

A Step-by-Step Guide to Success 

The EHS software market is forecasted to grow 14.6% by 2029 to an estimated $4.5 billion, and while it’s clear that now is the time to invest, many EHS professionals are still left with inefficient spreadsheets and manual, paper-based systems. For many EHS professionals, the real hurdle isn’t recognising the need for software: it’s building a compelling business case that secures leadership buy-in.

The good news is that with some preparation and research, you can do it.

Make

Below, we’ll walk you through the steps to effectively secure executive support for health and safety technology.

Step 1

Create an executive summary

Start with a brief overview of why you’re proposing a shift from your current processes to EHS software. Summarise the current challenges with your health and safety processes, the value of moving to a digital solution and the outcomes your organisation can expect to achieve.

Step 2

Asses your current EHS maturity

Evaluate where your organisation falls on the EHS maturity model. Present any challenges you have discovered during your initial research or gap analysis. Use your chosen KPIs to clearly highlight the pain points of your current system and areas of improvement.

Step 3

Describe what a high performing EHS program looks like

Next, describe what a successful EHS program could look like for your organisation and what benefits you can expect to see. Make it clear that these results can be achievable for your organisation with the right investment.

Step 4

Outline positive business impacts

Highlight the organisation-wide impacts of health and safety software, including increased cost savings, reduced regulatory penalties and enhanced brand reputation.

Step 5

Identify key system functionalities and capabilities

Now that you’ve defined the ideal state of health and safety, outline what functionalities and capabilities your EHS software needs to accomplish it. Make sure these requirements directly address the gaps you’ve identified earlier.

Step 6

Meet with solution vendors

Present a shortlist of vetted EHS software vendors that meet your outlined needs. If one solution stands out, state your recommendation here, along with any insights you gathered from demos or discussions with solution representatives.

Step 7

Compare internal builds vs choosing a software vendor

If applicable, explain the shortcomings of an internal software build and how choosing a dedicated EHS vendor limits the strain on your IT department. Have an IT representative speak to these points to support your argument.

Step 8

Present the ROI of EHS software

Compare the cost of the investment with the estimated savings from: 

  • Reduced injury and incident costs
  • Lower workers’ compensation claims
  • Fewer noncompliance fines
  • Time saved on administrative tasks 

Step 9

Lay out a proposed timeline

Detail the time periods for configuration, testing, rollout and training. If you already have a solution you prefer, talk with your representative to help determine an estimated timeline. 

Step 10

Wrap up your business case

Create a clear, confident summary of your recommendations and takeaways. Most importantly, this is your time to encourage decision-makers to take action.  

With the steps outlined above, you should feel confident in presenting your case for EHS&S software to leadership. 

Our safety experts at Evotix can help by providing you with the data mentioned in this plan. To speak with one of our representatives, request a demo!