Automated pay management systems make sense for business. Along with flexibility and security, these systems reduce labor costs and the potential for human error. Once you’ve decided to implement payment management software into your government organization, you must find the perfect fit.
After looking high and low for a solution that adapts to your unique needs, you may run up against the question of whether the best free software for payment management is worth it or not. Can you get by on a free platform, or is it better to invest in something more robust?
This article highlights the differences between free and paid payment management software and which is suitable for your municipality.
Pros of Using Free Payment Management Software
As you research payment management software, you’ll discover plenty of free options. It’s tempting to consider one of them when budget is tight.
In that case, here are the pros of free payment management software.
1. Free to Start
We’ll start with the obvious one. For government organizations operating on a restricted budget, you may not have the option to invest in a more robust payment management software.
2. Transitioning from Paper to Digital
If your organization is still dealing with outdated paper processes, transitioning to a digital platform may bebe highly beneficial.
3. Additional Flexibility
If you’re considering a digital payment management solution, you’re likely seeking additional flexibility for your team and your citizens. Even free options can help add more flexibility than outdated manual systems.
Cons of Using Free Payment Management Software
Though the initial cost of the software is free, that doesn’t mean it won’t require time, energy, and manual labor to get it to work with your operational flow.
Even the best free software for payment management may not be worth the resource investment, especially for those who are more serious about streamlining their processes.
Here are some of the cons of investing in free payment management software.
1. Fragmented Systems
Without an integrated payment system and revenue management software, you’ll lack continuity across your payment channels. Often, free payment management software doesn’t integrate with your current solutions, leading to fragmented systems.
2. Reliability Issues
Reliability is a critical element of any government organization. Your citizens depend on you, so you have to trust your payment management platform. Free versions of this software aren’t as reliable as professional options, which can create reliability, accountability, and reconciliation issues.
Professional software that leverages automation and other tools are far more reliable.
3. Lack of Security
When handling sensitive citizen information that includes financial details, you need a secure system to avoid compliance issues. Professional payment platforms fulfill this requirement.
Who Should Invest in Professional Solutions?
While we’ve discussed both the pros and cons of investing your resources into the best free software for payment management, the truth is that professional solutions will save you time and money. In many ways, offices looking to improve their payment processes can’t afford not to have a professional payment management solution.
Professional payment solutions provide the following benefits:
- Seamless integration with other systems (CRM, ERP, etc.)
- Speed to maximize your revenue and avoid delays
- Accuracy for data entry and reporting
- Security that matches the top-level service your organization provides
- Automation that reduces workloads and errors
- Flexibility through multiple connected payment channels (mobile, online, POS, etc.)
- Reliability from professional-grade platforms
- Customization to meet your exact needs
Professional payment management systems are the best option for many organizations. Yes, these systems do come with a cost, but the benefits far outweigh the cons. Creating a connected and streamlined payment experience for you and your citizens is incredibly valuable in building trust, promoting engagement, and increasing revenue.
So the truth is, even the best free software for payment management is not worth it.
