The total economic impact (TEI) analysis performed by Forrester is truly an eye-opener for corporate decision-makers. It analyzes a number of variables, which play a key role in determining the return on investment (ROI). The report provides a detailed outline of initial and ongoing costs, such as license fees and training expenses. Google commissioned the study to help businesses understand the real value of its cloud-based tools on day-to-day operations. Until now, many entities lacked detailed insights when it comes to quantifying the monetary benefits.
Known for its user flexibility and robust security, Google Apps for Work has gained considerable traction in the enterprise realm. These gains are spurred by the number of organizations switching to the platform.
Forrester conducted the economic impact analysis using organizations, which were planning to switch to Google. The consulting firm focused on a variety of factors that influence investment decisions, such as flexibility, risk factors, benefit and costs. The primary objective of the analysis was to help companies make informed decisions. In addition, the study allows businesses to maximize benefits by gaining a deeper understanding of how to take advantage of specific operational benefits.
Forrester Consulting evaluated the impact that Google Apps for Work on company operations by taking a multistep approach. Some of the steps taken include:
The total economic impact (TEI) analysis highlighted the need for companies to adopt proper change management practices. The approach helps maximize adoption by employees. For this reason, Forrester hired a third-party entity to handle change management communications and to design training materials for the composite organization. This was aimed at maximizing the benefits of integrating Google Apps for Work. The analysts adjusted change management costs of the composite organization to compensate for differences, which occur between firms. The variations are attributed to various factors, including budget and levels of resistance to adoption, among other external and internal factors.
In the impact study, the hypothetical firm accrued change management services expenses of up to $212,500. The amount rose by 20 percent to $255,000 after risk adjustment. Analysts highlighted the need to conduct proper training, in spite of these costs. On the other hand, the majority of companies can take advantage of the popularity of some Google Apps for Business. This translates to considerable savings when it comes to training because many employees are already familiar with applications like Google Docs, Gmail and Google Drive. As such, costs of internal training can vary depending on staff exposure to Google Apps for Business before the integration.
However, the analysts urge decision-makers to avoid assuming that every employee is familiar with all Google applications. In addition, there is a marked difference between using Google apps on a personal level and for work. Employees need to understand productivity-enhancing features and supporting behaviors. Training highlights the importance of using filters and the priority inbox in Gmail. Also, the staff requires an in-depth understanding of a wide variety of Google Docs functions and levels. This makes it easier to collaborate effectively. The levels of training typically vary between highly and less collaborative users.
The TEI analysis also outlines business benefits drawn from investing in a variety of supplemental capabilities. In turn, this allows an entity to engage in a wide variety of activities, thus providing flexibility. The Google App for Work environment offers the ability to integrate additional applications developed by third parties. These third-party software modules are regarded as flexibility options. They allow organizations to take advantage of wide-ranging operational opportunities. However, the third-party app marketplace options were not part of the TEI evaluation due to varying levels of adoption.
Forrester identified two risks linked to integration: impact risk and implementation risk. The analysts defined impact risk as the probability that Google Apps may not meet an organization's operational and technology needs. This reduces overall benefits of integration. Meanwhile, implementation risk refers to the possibility that the investment in the apps may lead to unexpected costs. Such a scenario can be due to a deviation from the original implementation requirements.
Evaluating these risks allows your company to accurately project return on investment. The evaluation process also requires direct adjustment when it comes to financial estimates. This is a practical way to form realistic expectations because risk-adjusted figures paint a true picture of adoption values.
Google Apps for Work makes it easier for companies to remain competitive by boosting productivity and operational efficiency. An economic impact analysis conducted by Forrester Consulting revealed the quantifiable value of switching to Google Apps. The benefits of integrating the cloud-based suite include both cost savings and collaborative efficiency. The tools enable teams to work from anywhere, share ideas and engage customers in real-time. This competitive landscape counteracts the limitations of legacy desktop-centric computing.