Have you been lured by a “free” CRM, only to be stung by unexpected costs? It’s not a quick and easy decision when you need to choose the right CRM.
If it’s time to find a better solution, here’s what to look for in a CRM that truly works for your business.
How to choose the right CRM
Personalise it
Most CRMs share common functionality; your CRM should be flexible enough to fit your business needs. Look for:
- Easy configuration to tailor the system to your processes.
- Core functionality that aligns with your goals and works for you.
- Infrastructure that enables your Technology Partner to customise it easily without costing a fortune.
- Business partners so you have local support and relationship managers that will visit you to understand your business objectives and challenges.
Integrate it
Does the CRM have OpenAPIs? If so, it can integrate easily with your current systems, saving time and reducing complexity:
- Seamless integration with your existing systems, such as your marketing or finance platform. Why duplicate efforts when you can connect the two?
- Connections to email, calendar tools, e-commerce platforms, prospecting channels, and all sorts of other platforms, allowing for a unified view of customer interactions across different channels within your business.
- The ability for developers (in-house or specialist CRM partners) to quickly access and merge data from one tool to another. An OpenAPI saves time for developers by allowing them to link their platform with already existing tools.
Interrogate it
Where will your data be stored?
- Do you have compliance requirements preventing data from being hosted overseas?
- Do you need your data behind your own firewall?
- Does the Cloud work for you? Or do you need Private Hosting or an On-Premise solution.
Understanding your where your data lives – and how you need to access it – is crucial before choosing a CRM.
Humanise it
AI is everywhere – but don’t get caught up in the hype.
- Choose a CRM that uses AI to enhance productivity, not replace human interaction.
- Most of us can spot AI-generated text a mile away – ensure automation works for you, not against you.
- Customisable CRM means you can add the fields that make sense, so you ask the right questions to understand your customer’s business.
How to choose the right CRM partner
A CRM is only as good as the partner supporting it. Here’s what to look for:
Unbeatable implementation packages
Switching CRMs shouldn’t be stressful – or costly. A trustworthy partner won’t take advantage of your urgency with unexpected or inflated fees. They should be there to ensure your set up is smooth and users trained comprehensively to make uptake successful.
Technology that grows with your business
Your CRM should evolve with you. Ask your partner:
- What are the costs of adding new fields and processes?
- Will you be charged extra for system enhancements as your business scales?
- Is there are better way to join up our back-office systems?
- How easy is reporting from your CRM?
Continual innovation
CRM is no longer a standalone tool nor does it remain set in stone. Does your partner:
- Keep up with the latest trends?
- Offer integrations?
- Have the ability and technology to automate your processes?
- Have analytics?
- Help you streamline your operations?
A forward-thinking partner ensures your CRM remains a valuable asset, not a limitation.
All-inclusive support
When issues arise (and they will), will you be charged for every request? A strong support package should:
- Cover your essential needs without hidden fees.
- Include flexibility for minor changes – without expensive “change control” requests.
- Be a relationship where your partner anticipates needs for your system and offers solutions to your pain points.
More information on how to choose the right CRM and partner
Looking for a CRM partner who will understand your business now and as it grows? Get in touch – we’d love to help you explore CRM, on your terms.
