There’s a new trend in the business world that has been attracting 1000’s of entrepreneurs, investors and it’s called Customer Relationship Management or CRM. CRM software has been touted for allowing many businesses to break the limits and boundaries of what can be done when data is collected and used effectively. In recent years, an excess of CRM software in the form of programs and apps have begun to flood the market. There are the big names and there are niche leaders as well.
Amid all these competitors and options, how does one choose the right CRM app? The task can seem daunting and if you make the wrong decision, it will cost the company time and money that will end up being wasted. Even employee morale can take a hit if the right CRM is not used and implemented. So to help your business avoid making these mistakes, here are a few tips on how to choose a CRM that’s best suited for your business, employees and customers.
1. Your Goals
Your business goals are the first consideration you need to make. Look towards your business objectives and focus on CRM apps that enhance and promote those objectives. Going with the biggest names in the CRM industry may not always be what’s best for your business. While there is multi-tasking CRM software out there, there are plenty more options that address your business niche directly.
2. Pricing
This is an important consideration as your choice will cost not just one upfront charge but will be a subscription based payment especially a cloud or app based CRM. You may also want to check for hidden costs. Some pricing models may look cheap on the first glance but on closer inspection, you’ll realise you are not getting the full featured program and will have to pay extra for more services and features. Do remember that the cheapest option is not necessarily the best option.
3. Scalability and Reporting
What good is a CRM software if it doesn’t allow you to see how well you are doing and compare your performance with that of previous times and with competitors. A good CRM app allows for effective and useful tracking and reporting. Data should be easy to input and collect. The same data should allow you to create in-depth analysis and reports on your team and their performance. Some CRM apps may even suggest what actions to take based on your results.
4. Consistent Support and service
It’s not just your business that needs to address its clients. A good CRM software company is always available to help its clients make the most out of their software. They expect their software to grow with your business and sometimes may even have a support community filled with other businesses like yours who use their software.
5. Mobility and compatibility
You need to make sure your choice is cloud-based and mobile. The ability to have your business go wherever you go is a winning feature that many cannot do without these days. Your selected app will also need to be compatible with other big names in the industry that offer supporting services such as mail clients, contact lists and other systems using effective API’s. A CRM that integrates with software and programs you are already using is a bonus.
Keep these points in mind and you’ll be sure to make a sound decision. A good CRM, like its main feature, builds a lasting relationship with the businesses that it works with. Digiteam – SalesARM is a CRM app that offers a variety of useful and effective features that can help push your business forward in this fast-paced economy. If you’d like to see what it can do for you, send our team a message and we will get back to you shortly.
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