1. Industry Experience and Understanding of your Organisation 

Ensure that your chosen provider understands the parking industry – its regulations, day-to-day challenges and service expectations. This isn’t just about understanding technology: It’s about understanding your operational goals, statutory obligations, and the wider public service context. A supplier with sector-specific experience will be far better equipped to meet your needs and anticipate potential issues.

2. Data Migration Capabilities

Data migration is one of the most complex and sensitive elements of any implementation. It requires time, technical skill and close collaboration between both parties. If handled poorly, it can delay go-live dates and disrupt services. It’s essential to choose a provider with a proven track record of successfully managing data migrations in live parking environments.

3. Technical Resources and Delivery Expertise

Implementing parking software isn’t a side project – it requires full-time attention from experienced professionals. Ask who will actually be delivering your project. Will your Project Manager be fully dedicated, or balancing multiple responsibilities? Is your trainer an experienced implementation specialist or simply the next available support resource? Make sure your supplier can provide a consistent, experienced team who understand your priorities and are resourced to deliver.

4. System Demonstration and End-User Involvement 

Never procure software without seeing it in action. A written proposal or technical specification can only tell you so much. Ask for a full demonstration of the system, ideally with your operational team present. Don’t leave the supplier selection to your procurement team alone.  The people who will use the system every day must have input during procurement. They will spot potential limitations or functionality gaps that may not be obvious to procurement teams.

5. On-going Innovation and Roadmap Credibility

Software shouldn’t stand still. Look closely at how often your prospective supplier enhances its system. Don’t just accept a roadmap at face value – ask for examples of recent developments and whether promised features have been delivered. A supplier that invests in ongoing product development is more likely to help your service evolve and remain compliant with future legislative or market changes.

6. Data Security and Regulatory Compliance

Your provider must meet the highest standards for data protection and information security, especially when handling personally identifiable information or payment details. Ask about their compliance with UK regulations such as the Data Protection Act, UK GDPR, and any relevant industry-specific standards. Request documentation of their security policies, accreditations and procedures for managing data access, retention and breach response.

7. Cultural Fit and Long-Term Partnership

The relationship with your software supplier shouldn’t end at go-live. The best partnerships are collaborative and built for the long term. Choose a provider that you can work with – whether that’s discussing future system improvements with their development team, or receiving ongoing guidance from customer support. Consider whether their values align with your own and if they show a commitment to supporting your long-term objectives.

In Summary

Implementing new parking software is not just a technology project – it’s a service transformation. Taking the time to assess each of these areas will help you make an informed decision and avoid future complications. A strong supplier will bring technical expertise, a clear understanding of your sector, and a commitment to working with you to deliver a solution that meets your operational and strategic goals.