How To Choose The Right Crm Solution ?
I have researched and implemented dozens of CRM solutions and the number 1 thing I learned is to pick a solution that has the most flexibility. Most big name brands sell a system that is “Vanilla” out of the box and is extremely expensive and time consuming to customize.
The best solution I have found by far is Salesforce.com They can do everything the major players do at a fraction of the cost and time to implement.
A poor man’s alternative in the hosted CRM environment is insidesales.com. They have superior tools for fast contact with leads such as an auto dialer, e-mail system etc…but don’t have near the capabilities of salesforce.
When your company chooses to implement a CRM, it is taking a dramatic step forward in customer commitment. And, since customers drive your business,you’re leaping ahead in your ability to generate and manage revenue,too. The benefits of CRM come not only from the product you purchase, but also from the implementation plan you follow. The more thoroughly you embrace a company-wide CRM philosophy,
the more your company will benefit from the features your CRM
software offers.
I believe the most important thing when purchasing a CRM is to make sure all or a high percentage of those that will be using it are on board with the decision. I also have implemented dozens of custom built CRM’s and know that if the people who actually enter the information into the application are involved with the decision, the purchase will be used by them. Training on the application is the second most important aspect of implementing a CRM. If the users are uncomfortable or unable to understand how the application works, they will not use it either. We have done multiple surveys with CRM users and most are unhappy with the application because they cannot get information they need out of it, so they stop using it. Training on how the application works and where the information entered can be found is extremely important for the end users.