Okay, you’ve decided that implementing a CRM would make your lives easier.
You start researching and see that there are a LOT of options.
Which one is the best? Short answer, the overall “best” CRM doesn’t exist.
That is the wrong question and that approach will likely lead to frustration.
Your goal is to map your goals to CRM features and identify the right solution for your business.
Determine Your Goals
How will a CRM make your business more efficient?
What systems should be integrated? I.e. Does it make sense to have your contacts spreadsheet integrate with your email system?
Ask these types of questions to evaluate your current activities and identify areas where things could be improved.
Work with your teams and put together a list.
What is Your Budget?
Having all of the right features won’t mean anything if you can’t pay the subscription fees.
Before you get too deep into the process, think about what you can realistically spend on this solution.
Keep in mind that you may be able to free up the funding that you need by streamlining the right things. I.e. If you are able to get rid of three other systems that you’ve been paying for then that may cover the costs of the CRM.
If you don’t have a large budget (or no budget) for this and you won’t be able to free up any money by using this you still may have options. There are several free CRMs or ones with a free tier.
Consider the User Experience
Having a CRM that matches your business needs perfectly won’t matter if the team members aren’t willing or able to use it.
How easy it will be to use is a huge consideration.
Think about how comfortable your team members are with technology.
- How quickly do they “catch on” to new systems?
- Will they need training? If so, what type of training (videos, documentation, in-person, etc.)
- Will they use it at all?
Work with your teams beforehand and consider a demo or free trial before purchasing.
What Other Systems Will it Integrate With?
One of the benefits of CRM systems is that they can integrate with programs that you already use.
This can save a lot of time since you will be able to do things from a single interface instead of going to each system separately.
Look into potential integrations before purchasing.
Mobile Support Options
An often overlooked area is mobile support.
Would it benefit your team to have access to your CRM while away from the office? I.e. Sales teams, field teams, etc.
Consider the mobile support options for the CRMs on your list
- Is there an app available? If not, is there a mobile-optimized website?
- Android or iOS?
- Will there be compatibility issues with your company’s hardware? I..e Ipad, surface, etc.
Conclusion
There are definitely more areas that could be considered when choosing a CRM.
Going through these items will give you a good starting point.
You can take the information you gather and be better prepared to talk to IT professionals. Alternatively, you would be much better equipped to find a solution on your own.
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