Swidro

Defining the Appropriate Evaluation Approach and Scope

• Based on the extensive preliminary work, it would have been possible to take several “shortcuts” – for example, by relying solely on an expert recommendation between the vendors already under consideration.
• However, since the decision was highly strategic for swidro – and especially for the 150 pharmacies and drugstores – a thorough evaluation approach was chosen, providing swidro with the level of certainty it needed.

Evaluation of eCommerce Software and Service Providers

• Together with the core team, a comprehensive target vision (functional map of requirements) was developed – not only covering the key requirements for the initial implementation, but also the expansion stages planned for the coming years as well as emerging priorities in the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors.
• This target vision was thoroughly documented and served as the foundation for the functional part of the tender process. Many of the decisive requirements fell under the category of multi-concepts – multi-branding, multi-shop, multi-location, multi-level roles & permissions, and multi-ERP integration.
• The vendor longlist, jointly compiled by all experts, ultimately grew to 21. Through the definition of preferred approaches and further clarifications, this was narrowed down to a shortlist of the 3 most suitable eCommerce solutions for the case.
• For each eCommerce solution, an appropriate implementation partner was evaluated – with the right size, strong focus on the solution, relevant references, solid reputation, and technological expertise (the swidro multi-case is anything but standard).
• In a pragmatic tender process, focused on 17 demo and concept use cases (from the perspectives of end customer / pharmacy / swidro), the vendors presented on-site and provided the input needed for the relevant evaluation details.
• The evaluation itself was carried out using the proven diselva CMS evaluation sheet, assessing product fit, technology fit, vendor fit, and cost fit.
• The evaluation committee, consisting of internal and external experts, was able – based on a clear recommendation with rationale – to agree on a winning solution. The full evaluation, including recommendation, costs, and next steps, was presented to the Board of Directors, which approved it with confidence.

The months-long evaluation was carried out in close collaboration with Carpathia, who had previously advised swidro on eCommerce and market-related topics.

eCommerce Kick-off Phase

The evaluation marks the starting point for the implementation project. For swidro, the following diselva services were especially valuable:

• Support up to and including the final proposal and contract – in collaboration with the selected service provider as well as swidro’s Executive Board and Board of Directors
• Guidance on the relevant multi-concepts, building on the understanding gained from the earlier phases
• Support with planning and project management
• Clarifications to address critical pain points
• Handover and onboarding for swidro’s internal project leads and the provider’s project team
• Challenging specific questions on topics such as interfaces, data structures, or features