The Environmental Monitoring Software Is “Free” … Is It Really?

As laboratory services and testing solutions become more prevalent, companies are increasingly offering “free” environmental monitoring software as a way to entice potential customers. However, with so many available options, it can be difficult to determine if this software is truly “free” and is the right fit for your organization. In this post, we’ll explore some of the key considerations when evaluating free environmental monitoring software offerings.

The first and most important factor in determining if a “free” environmental monitoring software is right for your organization is understanding what problem you are trying to solve. Are you looking to increase efficiency in your sampling program, improve reporting, or better manage your day-to-day operations? Once you identify your objective, comparing software offerings becomes much easier.

The next step is to determine what is most important for your organization. Does your team need a lot of support to adopt a new tool, or does your current program require a nuanced approach? Who will need access to the platform and its data? Will your organization adopt the platform system-wide or will you be able to purchase new tools on your own? By understanding what key stakeholders and your priorities are, you can better evaluate the true cost of any “free” software.

It is important to remember that any environmental monitoring solution that is “free” should truly be free. Free of your team having to spend time doing self-service setup or tracking down support. It should also be able to scale at multiple sites and incorporate data from different sources, with no fees for data integration.

Any environmental monitoring program (EMP) automation software that makes it to your shortlist should not only meet your specific needs but should also offer the flexibility and functionality to scale and leverage your data at multiple levels within your organization. It should allow users to gain efficiencies in their day-to-day tasks. If a solution falls short in any of these areas, it simply isn’t free. It will end up costing you time and, ultimately, money to implement and keep running. 

At Mérieux NutriSciences, we offer a variety of Digital Tools to help all levels of the industry. Our EnviroMap software, for example, can automate environmental and product testing programs and offers white-glove service included with a dedicated support team. With a truly global reach and eight-language support, EnviroMap is an industry-leading solution that offers unparalleled support.

In conclusion, while “free” environmental monitoring software may seem like a no-brainer, it is important to carefully evaluate any offer to ensure that it truly meets your needs and is without hidden costs. By understanding your objectives, key stakeholders, and priorities, you can make an informed decision about whether a “free” software is the right fit for your organization.