3 challenges when choosing ESG software

In the article “What is ESG Software?”, we explained why using ESG reporting software is critical for companies. However, choosing the right solution is not always an easy task.

How to choose ESG software

When looking for an ESG solution, it’s crucial to assess your business needs and requirements. Determine which features are essential to your organization and what support you need to implement your ESG practices effectively.

A useful step in selecting appropriate ESG software is having your company complete its dual materiality analysis.

When considering different solutions, carefully examine their data collection, analysis, and reporting capabilities, as well as integrate them with your company’s existing systems and ease of use.

It is important to assess the experience and expertise of the implementation team, as well as whether the consultants understand and can meet the organization’s needs.

We advise you to trust a partner with a proven track record in business software development and implementation, a good reputation, references and numerous satisfied customers.

Read more: What is ESG software?

Before choosing ESG software

The most important step in the ESG software selection process is understanding your company’s needs in detail. You can start with a few key questions:

  • Who are the decision-makers and teams regarding the purchase of ESG software?
  • Who will be the primary users of the software?
  • In what timeframe does the solution need to be implemented to produce your ESG reports on time?

Read more: Who is responsible for ESG reporting?

3 Challenges when choosing ESG software

1. Misleading definition of the software as an ESG solution

Many software vendors claim to offer ‘ESG software’, but in reality, these solutions typically only cover certain aspects of the sustainability reporting process.

Finding a comprehensive ESG reporting solution can be difficult, as organisations need a system that covers all aspects of ESG reporting and disclosure activities.

Ideally, the implementation partner should be knowledgeable about the topic and have experience in software implementation to be able to respond to rapidly changing regulatory requirements.

2. Investment of time and resources

Selecting, evaluating, and implementing an ESG solution can be resource-intensive. The process typically involves extensive research, demonstrations of the selected software, and attendance at seminars and events.

Companies need to carefully consider and plan for the time and financial commitment required to select and implement the right solution for their specific needs.

Read more: What is ESG and how do you comply with sustainability reporting regulations in a timely manner?

3. Stakeholder considerations

Selecting an appropriate ESG solution involves considering the perspectives and requirements of multiple organisational stakeholders. These stakeholders may include executives, sustainability teams, finance departments, and IT professionals with different priorities and needs.

Aligning the interests and expectations of these stakeholders can be complex and challenging.

In conclusion

Choosing and implementing the right ESG software solution is a complex but critically important decision.

Before you make a final decision, make sure that the ESG software you choose fully meets the company’s needs, that you have provided the resources required for the implementation, and that it meets the needs of key users and stakeholders.



No business today can grow and be competitive without IT systems. Choosing and implementing the right software solution is a complex, difficult, but critically important decision.

At Balkan Services,, we have expert knowledge of business, technology, and legislation and speak all three languages. We will listen carefully and advise you on choosing the right business system for your needs.

Balkan Services has been supporting businesses on their digital transformation journey since 2006. We have already helped over 390 companies digitize their businesses by implementing well-established software solutions and managing IT infrastructure.

Balkan Services
Balkan Services

Balkan Services has been implementing software solutions for businesses since 2006 and has completed more than 720 business software implementation projects and building complete IT infrastructure for 390+ companies. We follow a proven implementation methodology with clear steps and best practice know-how.