The investment research process is essential for asset managers. It helps them make informed decisions about investments. Today, a next generation investment research management system (RMS) can streamline this process, making it easier, faster, and more organised. Despite these benefits, many asset managers are hesitant to adopt an RMS.
In this post, we’ll look at the most common objections asset managers have to adopting a investment research management system and explain why these concerns shouldn’t stop you from streamlining your investment research process.
1. “Our Current Investment Research Process Works Just Fine”
Some asset managers think their current research process is good enough. They might be using spreadsheets, emails, or shared files that have worked for years.
The Concern:
If something isn’t broken, why fix it? The current system seems to work, so why change?
How an RMS Helps:
An RMS can make a good process even better. Manual methods like spreadsheets are prone to mistakes and can be time-consuming. An RMS automates tasks, reduces errors, and makes it easier to access, share and retain research. A next generation RMS will also help to standardise how your research is done across the team, making it easier to evaluate and compare opportunities.
2. “It Will Disrupt Our Workflow”
Changing to a new system can feel risky, or just like a lot of additional work. Investment teams would rather stay focused on their work than learning a new tool.
The Concern:
Adopting new technology could slow down productivity and require a big learning curve.
How an RMS Helps:
A next generation RMS is designed to streamline – not disrupt – your investment research process, integrating smoothly with your current tools such as Excel and Outlook. It can be customised to fit how your team already works. Plus, most RMS providers offer ongoing training and support to make the transition easy. Instead of disrupting your work, an RMS becomes a workspace that brings your daily research tasks together to make your workflow easier and faster.
3. “We Don’t Need Another Technology Platform”
Asset managers often use a lot of tools already—CRM systems, portfolio management software, and more. Adding another system can feel like tech overload.
The Concern:
“Introducing a investment research management system will just make things more complicated.”
How an RMS Helps:
An RMS is designed to integrate with your existing tools, and a next generation RMS comes with an inbuilt data management platform. Instead of adding complexity, it centralises all your research data, making it easier to access in one place. With the right system, you won’t need to jump between different platforms. It actually reduces the need to juggle multiple tools, making your workflow more efficient.
A next generation RMS can even become the way you present your ideas to your team and clients, helping streamline communication and build client confidence in the rigour of your decision-making process.
4. “It’s Not Secure Enough for Our Sensitive Data”
Data security is a major concern for asset managers. They deal with sensitive and proprietary information and need to know that an RMS will keep their data safe.
The Concern:
Will storing research and investment strategies in an RMS expose the firm to cybersecurity risks?
How an RMS Helps:
Leading RMS providers prioritise security. They use encryption, access controls, and regular audits to ensure data is safe. Additionally, RMS platforms comply with industry regulations for data protection. Choosing a trusted vendor can help you rest assured that your data will remain secure.
5. “We Don’t Have the Time to Implement It”
Asset managers are often pressed for time. They may worry that implementing an RMS will take too long, pulling them away from important tasks.
The Concern:
Setting up a new system will require time and effort that could be better spent elsewhere.
How an RMS Helps:
Most modern RMS platforms are designed for quick setup. Many providers also offer hands-on support and training to make the implementation process as smooth as possible. Once in place, the RMS will save time by automating routine tasks and centralising research, giving your team more time to focus on high-value activities.
Conclusion
While asset managers may have concerns about adopting a investment research management system, these objections can be easily addressed. An RMS can streamline your investment research process, improve collaboration, and boost productivity, all while ensuring data security. By addressing concerns around cost, workflow disruption, security, and complexity, asset managers can make confident decisions about implementing an RMS.
The long-term benefits of a investment research management system—improved efficiency, better collaboration, and enhanced decision-making—far outweigh the initial hesitation. Whether you’re a small firm or a large one, an RMS can transform how you manage your investment research process, helping you stay competitive and effective in today’s fast-paced financial world.
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