EHS&S Leaders Increasingly Seek Software Integration, Real-time Data Tracking

Those returning to the market for new EHS&S software seek better integration with other business IT systems as well as the ability to track data in real time, according to a new report published today by the National Association for Environmental, Health, Safety and Sustainability (EHS&S) Management (NAEM).

Based on 2019 survey data, 56 percent of returning software customers ranked ‘better IT integration’ and ‘real-time data tracking capabilities’ as their top selection criteria. The survey focused on the needs of returning customers and includes responses from 61 companies.

The latest report, “Why Companies Replace Their EHS&S Software Systems”, was developed to help EHS&S leaders diagnose issues with how they are managing their data management programs, and, if need be, successfully lead a new selection process.

NAEM’s Executive Director Carol Singer Neuvelt said the insights reflect the emerging needs of EHS&S leaders, for whom business integration and external reporting are increasingly important priorities.

“As more companies start to frame environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues as business risks, the EHS&S function is expected to align its data tracking and reporting systems as well,” she said.

To shed light on the needs of returning software shoppers, report provides data on the business drivers for new software purchases, customers’ top desired capabilities as well as customer satisfaction on key product attributes. It also offers insights from one-on-one customer interviews to explain the underlying management challenges that often lead to issues with the customer experience.  

“There is no one software solution that will fit the needs of all customers,” she said. “Selecting a new system requires a nuanced understanding of a company’s business objectives, organizational structure and workflows. This report sheds light on just how important all of these elements are to a system’s performance.”

The full report is available for free download on NAEM’s website, www.naem.org thanks to financial support from Cority, Gensuite, VelocityEHS and Wolters Kluwer Enablon.

About NAEM

The National Association for environmental, health and safety, and sustainability (EHS&S) Management (NAEM) empowers corporate leaders to advance environmental stewardship, create safe and healthy workplaces and promote global sustainability. As the leading business community for EHS&S decision-makers, we provide engaging forums, a curated network, peer benchmarking, research insights and tools for solving today’s corporate EHS&S management challenges. Visit us online at naem.org.