Integrating software with hardware enhances customer experience and increases software’s marketability. But finding the right hardware partner isn’t a simple task for Independent Software Vendors (ISVs). They have to navigate into unfamiliar territory and plan ahead.
Follow our guide of best practices for ISV integrations with hardware to win the hardware battle.
Understand the Hardware and Its Manufacturer
First things first: You need to know the hardware and understand the value it provides. Take time to understand the specifications, limitations and quirks of the hardware you’re considering. If you think you’ve found a hardware partner, don’t just skim the product manual – dive into it. This knowledge is your compass and map for a successful partnership.
And it’s not just the hardware you’re partnering with. Consider the manufacturer. Do they have a trusted track record? Do they understand how to troubleshoot? Your customers will be working with your product and the hardware it’s attached to. Your hardware partner needs to pass the same tests you do.
As an ISV, the first step to any successful hardware partnership is understanding the hardware and the manufacturer you’re partnering with.
Ensure Hardware Quality
Once you understand your hardware options and trust the manufacturer, ensure the hardware is durable. The hardware should be made of quality materials but also be flexible to grow with you over time. Review warranties to ensure the hardware stands up to the test of time.
Use the product in real world settings and talk to vendors about what hardware would help them. The product is at the heart of your partnership, so it needs to be as strong as the partnership itself.
VAULT offers several solutions with lifetime warranties that are currently used in bars, restaurants, hotels and more. Contact us to learn more.
Continuously Communicate and Collaborate
At the Beginning of the Partnership
Communication, particularly asking questions upfront, is the best way to tackle the road ahead as partners. Both partners should make communication a priority early in the relationship. Have dedicated employees that work closely to ensure a seamless partnership from the beginning. When both sides are on the same page, you can speak about the products the same way and market them properly.
Effective communication will help build trust in the beginning of the partnership. You can also plan for the long-term evolution of both your software and the hardware it integrates with.
Communication Over Time
Communication is also important over time. Hardware and software evolve. Today’s integration might become tomorrow’s legacy. Maintain a continuous collaborative relationship with hardware manufacturers and stakeholders to stay ahead of the curve. ISVs need to keep hardware partners aware of upgrades and changes. And the hardware partner needs to do the same.
Keep the lines of communication open with hardware manufacturers for updates and support.
Make Money Together
The ISV and hardware manufacturer partnership won’t work if it’s not beneficial to both parties. When an ISV integrates with hardware, both parties should:
- Be profitable through the partnership
- Benefit from the collaboration
- Stay agile in their business practices
Create Seamless Integration with Efficient Processes
The goal is a seamless marriage between software and hardware. This isn’t just about functionality but also about performance. Lag, latency, and resource inefficiency are your enemies.
Create a workflow and process that is as seamless as possible. Clearing up inefficiencies early in the process will help lead you to a successful ISV and hardware partnership.
Conclusion: The Best Practices for ISV Integrations with Hardware
Integrating software with hardware is a task that requires continuous collaboration. Embrace these best practices to turn the landscape of ISV hardware integration into a realm of opportunity and success.
Keep these best practices for ISV integrations with hardware in mind for a successful partnership:
- Communicate effectively early in the relationship and throughout
- Create a plan for seamless integration
- Ensure the partnership is profitable for both parties
- As an ISV, thoroughly understand the hardware and its manufacturer
Remember, in this rugged terrain, it’s not just about surviving – it’s about thriving. So gear up, get your hands dirty and conquer the challenges head-on.
VAULT is the leader in creating hardware solutions for ISVs, retail, healthcare and more. Our affordable products offer case protection, fixed POS, mPOS, cable-free charging and more. Contact us to learn more about how we can help you sell more products faster.
