The Real Costs of Implementing a DAM Solution: What You Need to Know in 2024

How much does it cost to implement a DAM solution? Choosing a Digital Asset Management (DAM) solution can feel like a big step for any digital marketing team. It promises to organize all your digital assets, save time, and streamline your processes. But let’s be real—there’s more to it than just picking a system and hitting "buy." There are costs involved, and it’s important to know what you’re getting into. Let's walk through these costs together, so you can make the best decision for your team.

1. The Price Tag: Software Fees

First up, the actual cost of the software.

• One-Time Fees: Some systems ask for a big, one-time payment. This means you own the software, but you might also pay extra for updates and support down the line.
• Monthly/Annual Subscriptions: Others offer a subscription model. You pay a recurring fee, which might feel more manageable upfront but can add up over time. The cost often depends on how many users you have, how much storage you need, and the features you want.

At Pickit, we offer a flexible pricing model with transparent subscription fees. This allows you to choose a plan that fits your needs and budget without surprise costs. We like straightforward, and our pricing couldn’t be any different. That’s why the plans are clear: they are based on the number of users and features, so you know exactly what you're paying for.

2. Getting Started: Implementation and Setup

Setting up a DAM isn’t as simple as flipping a switch. Here’s what you might encounter:

• Consulting Help: You might need experts to tailor the DAM to your specific needs. This can include setting up workflows or custom features.
• Integration: Making sure the DAM talks to your other tools (like your CMS or CRM) is crucial and can take time and money.
• Moving Assets: Transferring your existing assets into the new system can be a big job, especially if you need to organize, clean up, or convert files.

At Pickit, we know you're busy. You don't have time to learn some complicated new system, or hire a whole team to set it up. That's why we made Pickit super easy to use. We'll even hold your hand through the beginning to make sure you're good to go.

Plus, we know you've got a bunch of stuff already saved in places like Microsoft and SharePoint. No worries, Pickit works with those too. It's like adding a superhero sidekick to your existing team.

3. Learning the Ropes: Training and Onboarding

A DAM is only as good as the people using it. Training your team is key:

• Training Sessions: Whether it’s webinars, workshops, or in-person training, getting your team up to speed is an investment.
• Resources: You might need manuals, guides, or online resources to help everyone learn the ropes.

Pickit is designed with you in mind. We've packed it with easy-to-follow steps and clear explanations. Think of it as training wheels for your digital asset journey. And if you need a little extra push, we offer hands-on training sessions too.

"The customer service is great! Whenever our team has an issue with integrations or SSO login, the Pickit team is quick to address the issue and get back to us. There's also a lot of flexibility for adding/removing various app features as needed. Once into the tool, the user interface is great – and it's so, SO much better than trying to sort through images on Sharepoint."

Lauren Hostetter
Senior Graphic Designer at BlastX Consulting

4. Keeping It Running: Ongoing Costs

Once you’re up and running, there are some ongoing expenses to consider:

• Support: Depending on your needs, you can choose from different levels of support. More comprehensive support plans will cost more.
• Updates and Maintenance: Keeping your system updated and secure is vital. Sometimes this is included in your subscription; other times, it’s extra.
• Extra Storage: As your asset library grows, you might need more storage or bandwidth, especially with cloud-based systems.

At Pickit, we make it super easy to organize, find, and use your images, videos, and files. With our friendly setup process and helpful guides, you'll be a pro in no time. We're always here to lend a hand with our awesome support team and promise to keep Pickit fresh with regular updates. Plus, we grow with you, offering flexible storage options as your business expands.

5. Making It Yours: Custom Development

Sometimes, the standard features just aren’t enough:

• Custom Features: You might need specific functionalities that aren’t included out-of-the-box.
• API and Integration: Custom integrations can help the DAM work seamlessly with other tools you use.

Pickit is as flexible as you are. It comes packed with all the tools you need, but if you're feeling fancy, you can customize it to fit your exact style. Plus, Pickit plays well with others. It can connect with your favorite tools to create a super-powered digital team.

👉 Check Kraftpowercon's happy story after switching to Pickit 👈

6. Staying Safe: Security and Compliance

Security might not be the first thing you think of, but it’s crucial:

• Security Audits: Regular checks ensure your system complies with laws and keeps your data safe.
• Data Protection: Investing in good encryption and backup solutions is worth it for peace of mind.

Your stuff is safe with Pickit. We take security seriously. Pickit locks down your files with strong passwords and keeps a close eye on who's accessing what. Plus, we make regular copies of everything, just in case. So, relax and enjoy knowing your valuable digital stuff is protected.

7. The Unseen Costs: Potential Hidden Expenses

• Downtime: Sometimes things don’t go as planned. Implementing a new system can cause some downtime, which might slow down your team temporarily.
• Vendor Lock-In: If you ever need to switch systems, it can be a hassle and cost you more time and money.

Pickit is built on a rock-solid foundation with a team ready to help if anything goes wrong. This means less downtime and more time for you to do your thing. And don't worry about getting stuck with us. We believe in freedom. You can change your mind or grow without any hassle.

Final Thoughts

Investing in a DAM solution is a significant decision, but it’s also a step toward a more organized and efficient workflow. Understanding the full picture of costs helps ensure that you’re not caught off guard and that the system you choose truly meets your needs. Remember, the goal isn’t just to pick a tool but to find a partner in your journey to more efficient digital asset management.