How To Make the Case for EHS&S Software

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. Summarize the current challenges with your health and safety processes, the value of moving to a digital solution and the outcomes your organization can expect to achieve. 

Discover what your CFO expects in a business case

STEP 2

Asses your current EHS maturity

Evaluate where your organization 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 organization and what benefits you can expect to see. Make it clear that these results can be achievable for your organization with the right investment.

Visualize the ideal state of EHS

STEP 4

Outline positive business impacts

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

Discover the vast benefits of EHS software

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. 

Learn what key features you should consider in EHS software  

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. 

Prepare for demos and solution evaluations

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. 

See why building in-house might cost you more

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 

Calculate your estimated ROI

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.