A new survey shows that only 27% of SMBs buy software that meets or exceeds their needs.

Unlike many large businesses and enterprises, small and medium businesses often rely on off-the-shelf software for their daily operations. Despite that, the vast majority are making significant compromises when buying software, according to a survey by Capterra.

In a Capterra survey of 1,000 small-business leaders who have influence on software purchase decisions, only 27% managed to secure what we call a “Great Match” on the last software purchase for their organization.

That’s it! The rest either compromise on their original vision, or purchase software that fails to meet expectations—leading to further problems, additional software purchases, or, in the worst cases, purchase regret that forces small businesses to start over.

Capterra recommends SMBs follow specific steps to avoid this problem, including focusing on internal goals, involving decision-influencers in the discussions, verifying information through independent sources, using free trial periods and sticking with shortlists of the best candidates.

At a time when SMBs are already under increased pressure, Capterra’s survey highlights the challenges they face with something as important as the software they rely on.