Vendor Consolidation — from fragmented to clear
The problem: too many tools, too little clarity
Enterprise organisations use an average of hundreds of software tools. Some overlap in functionality, some are purchased by departments outside IT, and some essentially do the same as something you already have. This costs money, time, and leads to compliance risks.
Our approach: strategic reduction, not random cutting
Vendor consolidation at SoftVaro doesn't start with “what can be removed”. It starts by mapping out what each tool does, who uses it, and where overlaps lie. Only then do we make decisions together: which suppliers stay, which are removed, and how to make the transition without business risk.
Why consolidation pays off
The hidden costs of too many software suppliers — often only visible once you start consolidating.
Overlapping functionality
Three tools doing the same thing cost you three times as much — plus three implementation projects, three renewals, and three vendor relationships.
Compliance overhead
Every additional supplier means an extra supplier assessment, DPIA, and audit reporting. That adds up with 100+ tools.
Missed volume discounts
Fewer suppliers = more volume per supplier = better negotiating position and terms.
Operational complexity
IT and security have fewer systems to monitor, patch, and integrate. Less complexity = less risk.
How we work
Not a drastic pruning, but a controlled process with support.
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1. Portfolio scan
We map which software exists, who uses it, what it costs, and where overlaps are. Often surprising — even for IT themselves.
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2. Strategy definition
Together we determine which suppliers are strategic, which can be merged, and which can be removed. Always backed by a business case.
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3. Execution
We guide the phase-out process: communication to users, data migration, contract settlement and renegotiation with the remaining vendors.
What is realistic?
Realistic expectations
Vendor consolidation is not a sprint. For enterprise portfolios, expect a 6–12 month process for significant reduction, depending on contract durations and internal decision-making. What we do guarantee: insight within 24 hours, and a concrete 12-month plan within 2–4 weeks.
The benefit? On average, we see a 15–25% reduction in software costs for serious consolidation projects — plus significantly less operational overhead. Not by sharp buying, but by honestly determining what you truly need.
Frequently asked questions
How much can I save with consolidation?
That varies per organisation. In serious enterprise consolidation projects, we typically see a 15–25% cost reduction on the consolidated part of the portfolio, spread over 12–24 months. Plus considerable savings on operational overhead.
What if I’m too large to tackle everything at once?
Starting small is possible. We first focus on one category — for example project management tools or security software — and build from there. This gives quick results and buy-in for a broader approach.
Do you also implement tools?
Our role is advisory and executive. We assist with phase-out and migration plans, but we do not carry out technical migrations between tools ourselves — for that, we collaborate with your IT team or an implementation partner.
How do you involve users in the choices?
Yes. Buy-in is crucial — consolidation without stakeholder engagement fails. We support communication and change management, but the execution remains with your internal teams.
Are you a partner of certain suppliers?
No, we advise based on independent criteria: functionality, market position, terms. We have no reseller relationships with vendors — that’s exactly the value SoftVaro adds.
Curious what’s possible in your portfolio?
We offer a free portfolio scan and will show you within 24 hours where the quick wins are and what a consolidation project could look like for you.