4 Basic Steps for CRM Software Selection

You already know CRM software can help you manage your business more efficiently. Your next step is to find the right type of software to improve your productivity and customer retention. While most business share these same goals, that doesn’t mean their sales process or customer pipeline are the same. How do you know which CRM software is right for your business? Your search for the best CRM product will require time and research, but here are a few things to consider as you get started:

  1. List Your Requirements

First, you should make a list of your requirements. What does your ideal CRM service look like? If you’re not sure how to answer this question, consider your current sales process. Your CRM shouldn’t complicate the process but rather complement it. You can also consider common problems you run into as you work with current customers and generate leads for new ones.

  1. Test User-Friendliness

After you’ve outlined everything you’re looking for, it’s time to start testing the products that fulfill your requirements. CRM software’s main function is to make managing your contacts easier. It should also be easy for you and your team to use. Make sure keeping track of your contacts and updating them with notes and new information is simple. Your CRM should be easy to use so that if you hire someone new, there isn’t an extended period of time where they aren’t productive because they’re still learning how to use it.

While testing user-friendliness, you should also consider how mobile-friendly the CRM software is. Can you and your team use it on the go? Is it easy to use from your mobile device? With mobile CRM at your fingertips, you can update information no matter you go, which will significantly improve your productivity.

  1. Lead Management

Lead management is another priority for most businesses seeking CRM software. Managing contacts properly will help you with customer retention, but you also need to attract new customers so your business can grow. With CRM, you can get notifications and reminders when potential customers take desired action. You can also assign scores to potential customers to help you keep track of what stage of the buyer’s journey they’re in.

  1. Analytics and Reporting

Having reliable and comprehensive analytics is going to be one of the most useful aspects of your new CRM. As you consider which CRM to adopt, you should find out what kind of reports it can generate for you. Analytics can help you fine tune your sales process and even predict customer behavior.

If you want metrics or other tools that off-the-shelf CRM can’t provide you, you can have custom software developed for you. With customized CRM, you can have your current technology analyzed to see where improvements are needed. Our eimagine team will even help you evaluate whether you should buy an off-the-shelf CRM or build a custom one. You can contact us to learn more about your CRM options!

 

2 thoughts on “4 Basic Steps for CRM Software Selection

  1. Yes! That is a very good guide. Concise and to the point. Selecting a CRM software can be a nerve-wracking process but in essence it boils down to the four steps you listed. Thank you.

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