How to protect your CRM Data

Cloud customer relationship management (CRM) systems afford businesses many conveniences and efficiencies, allowing sales teams to manage their pipelines with greater ease and proficiency. Businesses are becoming more dependent on these systems to provide timely reporting and even predictive analytics to inform future strategy. As these businesses increasingly rely on their CRM solutions, however, entrusting them with valuable information, it becomes even more important to ensure that the data residing in these systems is protected against theft or loss. Here are four ways in which businesses can take measures to secure their CRM environments.

1. Do Your Due Diligence on Your CRM Provider

One benefit of using a cloud-based CRM system is that you no longer have to patch it, back it up, or perform the daily administrative tasks you might otherwise have had to do. That said, placing your eggs in a cloud provider’s basket does not mean that you are entirely off the hook when it comes to ensuring that the data are protected and safe. If you haven’t already done so, familiarize yourself with your CRM provider’s data security and backup practices—particularly if you are bound to government regulations. Make sure to ask detailed questions of your provider and understand how your CRM data are protected against both unauthorized access and data loss.

2. Do Your Due Diligence on Your Own Network

Using a cloud-based CRM system does not prevent you from suffering a data breach involving CRM data. If your information security policy is not strong enough to manage the level of risk your business faces, you can still be compromised. An attacker, having gained access to a corporate user account, will likely not have much trouble gaining access to other systems that your business uses (either through piggybacking on accounts to which the attacker is already authenticated or by using a keylogger). Review your internal security practices, and ensure that your network is adequately protected.

3. Properly Restrict Users’ Access

Although we don’t like to contemplate it, insider threat is a very real aspect of information security that all organizations must consider. Have you recently reviewed the access privileges for the users currently defined in the CRM system? Do those users have the correct rights and privileges, or have some of them been granted permissions beyond a level they need to perform their work? Take a moment to review how passwords are managed, as well. If you don’t currently integrate your CRM system with Active Directory or Lightweight Directory Access Protocol, you may find it beneficial to do so—just make sure that the password policy on which those systems rely is as strong as it should be and that your overall information security practices are up to the task. In addition, make sure you have a clear plan for removing user accounts from the CRM system after employees depart your company.

4. Secure Your Mobile Devices

Last but certainly not least, make sure that any end points that accessing the CRM system—be they laptops, tablets, smartphones, or even wearables like the Apple Watch—are properly secured so that only the appropriate parties have access to them. This links back to your information security policy, of course, and it also ties back to your processes and tools for managing your mobile devices. If you have a Bring Your Own Device program in place, pay particular attention to how passwords and authentication codes are handled on any devices that access your CRM system.

With prudent measures and vigilant proactive attention, you can ensure that your CRM system is protected from a data breach. Knowing that you have taken those steps, you can rest assured that the valuable data you have placed in your CRM system are safe and secure.

By Rose de Fremery "founder of lowercase d consulting"

The Basic Concept Behind the Idea of CRM

Unless you are operating a business that does not rely on customers, you are going to need some kind of a system to help you manage and control these customers. Customer relationship management (CRM) is a method by which you can control the company’s interactions with its customers, both the current and the prospective ones. It basically involves the use of technology to be able to have the entire customer base under one roof and in one database. This database can then be accessed every now and again to find relevant information to be used in making the customers even more contented.

When a company is engaging in its business, it is usually reliant on the customer base. If the customers are happy, the business will definitely thrive. If the customers are not happy, the business will fall on tough times. This simply means that it is in the best interest of any company to make sure that its customers are happy at all times. CRM presents a worthwhile means for the company to ensure that customers are happy at all times. It creates a special bond between the customer and the business which gives the customer reason to be loyal to the brand of the company.

Any transaction between a customer and the business is recorded through the CRM system. This transaction will have quite a lot of information ranging from the customers’ details to their tastes and preferences. Next time in case the business would like to contact the customer to pass on any kind of information, these details come in handy. When a customer gets a personal message from a company, they are more likely to believe that the business really does care about them. Periodical and regular messages can then be sent to the customer to keep reminding them about the intentions of the company.

One of the reasons why CRM continues to be a big part of the operation of many businesses is because of the issue of sales and marketing. Through this system a company can create and follow sales leads and it can do this without having to stretch too far or spend too much. With the information that is stored in the database, some leads for prospective customers can be created and these customers can then be contacted for further sales to be done.

CRM also acts as a platform for customers to communicate their grievances and desires to a company. A company will only be able to improve its operations if it can manage to do what its customers expect of it. The only way it can become aware of the desires of the customers is through constant communication between the two parties. When customers can tell a company what they want and the company can respond by telling the customers what it can offer, there is usually a healthy relationship that is created. This customer relationship management usually ensures that this relationship flourishes and continues to grow and spread its wings to include as many new customers as possible.

Infographic: Benefits of CRM

Infographic: Benefits of CRM

Agiline CRM Software

Agiline CRM is the brand new face of Surado Software’s most successful CRM product, Surado CRM. After having signed the build and support agreement with Surado Software, Agiline is now set to take on Agiline CRM to a new level with its strong industrial exposure and experience.

Agiline CRM retains all the features and modules of Surado CRM and plans to extend on it further, to offer more sophisticated and advanced features in the product to match today’s demands of extensive 

Customer Relationship Management.

Essentially, the Agiline CRM comprises various important modules like Sales Automation, Marketing Automation, Customer Service/Help Desk, Contact & Account Management, Dashboards, Analytic’s & Reporting, and Tools and Technology. Agiline CRM also continues to offer Small Business CRM, as well. All these modules are empowered with Surado’s seventeen years of industry experience, and offer powerful and efficient features, which make these modules highly successful amongst their peers.

Agiline, as a company has the expertise and proven track record of ensuring its clients’ success. The team at agiline comprises consultants, who have the experience of working with multiple industries, integrating a large variety of software systems. Agiline thus brings best practices from hundreds of successful projects. It is this domain expertise and industry exposure, which has helped agiline to grab the opportunity to sign the build and support agreement for Surado CRM, which happened to be one of the most successful CRM products available in the market today.

Agiline has purposely retained all the features of Surado CRM, as is, especially to make the transition smooth and hassle free, for Surado CRM’s existing customers. While agiline definitely has plans to extend Agiline CRM’s offerings to a new level, at the same time, it also has made all the necessary arrangements to support the existing Surado customers, seamlessly. This means that the existing clients of this CRM Products continue to receive the same kind of support and maintenance, as before, as they are automatically enrolled to receive support from the Agiline CRM support team.

Apart from the product modules and support, there is another dimension to Agiline CRM, and that is services. Continuing the tradition of Surado CRM, the Agiline CRM also offers professional services to help the clients define their CRM requirements. These services cover varied areas like Project Needs Analysis, Design & Implementation Planning, Installation & Business Rules Development, Back-Office Application Integration, Data Migration, Agiline CRM Customization, Project Management, End-User & System Administrator Training etc. These professional services definitely offer the much required help for companies seeking the right kind of CRM product for their organization.

Agiline CRM is thus completely set as a new CRM product to be offered to its potential clients, while it retains and supports all the goodness that was there in Surado CRM. And with a strong will to succeed, which is supported by an expert and visionary Agiline team, Agiline CRM brings new promises, to meet the new age demands of Customer Relationship Management.

Microsoft Dynamics CRM Vs. Prophet CRM software

In today's world when the market is so competitive, companies have to take care to keep their customers coming back, and one of the best ways to do this is by using customer relationship management, otherwise known as CRM. Having a good CRM software system in place is important if you are going to make your company a profitable and successful one. However, there are a variety of different software options, including software like Prophet CRM and Microsoft Dynamics CRM software. Prophet is a software that is offered by Avidian and of course Microsoft Dynamics CRM is offered by Microsoft. Both CRM software programs have quite a bit to offer, but you may want to take the time to compare the two options before you decide if Microsoft Dynamics CRM is the right choice or if Prophet is the best choice for your company. So, let's take a look at both Microsoft Dynamics CRM and Prophet, how they compare, and which one is the best choice for most companies. 

The benefits of Microsoft Dynamics CRM. 

Microsoft Dynamics CRM is a software option for businesses that was designed to help meet integration requirements for a variety of different business systems, whether they are complex ones or even simple ones. Also, Microsoft Dynamics CRM was designed to work with different types of software applications that business use, such as Microsoft applications and other applications from different providers as well. In fact, Microsoft Dynamics CRM actually will even work with software that is custom designed as well. One of the main benefits of using Microsoft Dynamics CRM for your business is that it works so well at providing your employees with information that is up to date. You will also find that with Microsoft Dynamics CRM, you will be able to share the information between different departments as well. Having Microsoft Dynamics also helps businesses to be able to streamline their processes. Microsoft Dynamics makes it easier on employees, since they don't constantly have to reenter information. This gives them the opportunity to work on other important sales tasks that will keep your company making a lot of sales. 

Microsoft Dynamics CRM is great, but Prophet CRM software is better. 

Now for a look at the Prophet CRM software, and how it works. Prophet was designed and is marketed by the Avidian company, and unlike Microsoft Dynamics CRM, this is a software option that has been awarded many different awards. In fact, one of the best CRM software options on the market today is considered to be Prophet. Sure, Microsoft Dynamics CRM does have much to offer, but they have a hard time coming close to what Prophet can offer businesses for their CRM needs. First of all, the Prophet system is very easy to use and it is also extremely easy to implement into a company as well. The price on Prophet is reasonable as well, and it is cost effective. In fact, you will be able to have this software customized just like you want it, which is not something that all CRM software options, such as Microsoft Dynamics CRM can offer. Automated emails are another benefit that Prophet offers as well, which makes following up with customers a breeze. A calendar option is also a part of the Prophet system, which can be helpful. You can even make reports with Prophet which help to keep track of how the company is performing so you can make sure that you company is working at it's best. 

Prophet CRM software system is a better option. 

While both Microsoft Dynamics CRM and Prophet CRM have a lot to offer, if you are looking for the best possible CRM software system for your business, you will want to go with Prophet instead of the Microsoft Dynamics system. Prophet can offer a better option for a price that is cost effective, which makes it a better choice than Microsoft Dynamics. So, if you are ready to start growing your business, increasing your sales, and enhancing your overall business success, instead of turning to Microsoft Dynamics CRM for help, consider going with Prophet CRM software. This software has so much to offer and there have been many awards offered to Avidian for this software as well. In fact, Prophet actually has a four star rating with PC World, which is not easy to get. So, until Microsoft Dynamics CRM can boast about the same awards, you will be best going with the Prophet software. 

web Based CRM Software Solution for Boosting Your Business

In today's competitive world, Customer Relationship Management (CRM) is practiced by each and every business that values their customers. Without a customer, a business will finish to exist. It's web based CRM software solution which makes it achievable for an enterprise. Organizations constantly find such solutions to minimize the expense of the operations of a business. Due to this, many companies turn to web based CRM solution as a choice.

The CRM Software is rapidly becoming a chief business strategy that many organizations rely on to streamline their sales, marketing and customer service processes. Web Based or hosted CRM was created as a result of a certain conviction. It's basically meant to range as a number of customers and inforce the 3 main principles of a CRM. These are:

• Maintaining active customers 
• Obtaining possible customers 
• Improving upon customer encounter

A CRM software can make a world of a difference to the productivity rate of a business. Any organization can give its customers a world class customer care experience with the help of a customized Customer Relationshhip Management (CRM) software. t offers a business owner a competitive benefits in a various small ways and it is CRM which can make a strategic difference for the small business.

Web based CRM solution is a surprise for a sinking business. The solution can raise your firm to a whole new level. A flexible CRM software does the following:

• It allows you to track customers in the sales pipeline
• It doesn't require the purchase of new equipment
• It allows easy access to customer information
• The solution can be accessed from virtually anytime from anywhere
• Allows the sales person to obtain client information 24x7

By using the latest and modern technology you can help to benefit the business in some ways as a business owner. You can work on developing new ideas to boost up the business such as email campaigns to set customer care and to raise sales prospecting projects. You can email the customers directly to ask if they are happy with the purchase they made from the company.

One of the major advantages of the CRM - Anybody can connect with anybody, anywhere on the globe with the help of Internet. It makes the solution cost-effective and beneficial. Web Based CRM is a software solution offering Customer Relationship Management working processes over the internet. It supports various functionalities of a business such as Lead Management, Opportunity Management, Partner Management, Customer Service and Support, Contact Center Management, Performance Management and E-commerce etc.

Zoho Support and Maximiser support

CRM is a short form of the full word customer relationship management specialist. There are many Zoho CRM support and maximiser CRM support that have to deal with different customers across the world. However it is seen that the good customers are the people who can merge their various activities with the services of CRM. Therefore the Zoho CRM support and maximiser CRM support are there to fulfill the need of different customers, the most brilliant customers of the world.

It is the integral part of the different customers who manages to merge their activities with the CRM. It does not remain confined to a daily activity as it has become an integral part of them. The different advantages of using Zoho CRM support and maximiser CRM support. Different people uses the CRM to get more exact results and different staffs uses the CRM for getting better results.

The CRM software is really extremely useful software. The CRM software guides the different customers from the start of their work until the work is completed. They also show you different ways to record different leads from the web directly. Extremely useful software guides the different customers and gives them excellent services. If all the people are having any kind of problem in their offices then they should contact Zoho CRM support and maximiser CRM support. They help the people to change the management. They organize a movement for change to bring about a change in the management of that company. All the CRM of a graphic show needs a part which is needed. A CRM is needed by an automatic implementation system always.

There are many different types of CRM except from the type of CRM which is mentioned here. One of the extremely important kinds of CRM called the CLOUD Solution CRM. This is mostly used and applied for this type of business that wants to be very successful and wants to run their business very quickly and fast. Those people who takes this kind of CRM wants peace and flexibility of mind which contains technical requirements which is minimum and there is no scope of losing any data's of any type. This kind of CRM are mainly used by the people who have infrastructure which are low,the IT infrastructure have very small amount of workers and staffs and they accept for a monthly payment that is fixed and predictable.

Another kind of extremely popular CRM is known as the ON-PREMISE SOLUTIONS. This is also an extremely useful CRM and this is mostly used by the companies who want to fulfill the need of their companies. They want to incorporate different processes of CRM which are to be installed in the works of those people and want this to become a part of the company. The people of the companies want to incorporate this type of CRM because they require high security for different datas of their offices. They want this type of CRM that will fulfill the needs of the office that is unique and this needs a special kind of data structure.

Therefore the Zoho CRM support and maximiser CRM support is used by different companies and help those companies a lot.

Factors of CRM Software Solution Successful

CRM solutions are critical to retaining clients in modern aggressive environment, where upcoming item sales depend on perceptions of assistance and treatment by present clients.

CRM software help companies succeed in diiferent ways.

Here are common Factors:

1. Improved Operational Efficiency: A full perspective of a client, from prospecting to back up and assistance, allows different companies to see the same details throughout the items or services life-cycle. This eliminates inefficient tasks caused by missing or redundant details.

2. Better Visualization of Sales Metrics: With all item sales details in one place, companies can build reviews and dashboards specific to regions, representatives, items and services, and other item sales analytics. This details can do or die deals.

3. Provides a Device for Coaching and Training: Ramping up new employees is always a challenge. CRM application is a platform for education with its reviews, graphical displays, and built-in training circumstances.

4. Specified Data: CRM techniques allow companies to set definitive details factors for confirming analytics. This allows supervisors at the line, region, and upper stages to make better-informed choices.

5.Improved Accountability: CRM application tracks detailed analytics across companies. Customers can configure it by individuals and groups, motivating associates to remain accountable for their areas of responsibility.

6. Device to Leverage Personal Value to an Employer: Managers and other management in companies can use CRM application to show exactly how item sales, operations and assistance associates perform.

7. Decisions Centered on Fact Rather than Gut Feelings: Before CRM application, organization management often relied on intuition when selection. Factual choices depending on real details are now the norm.

8. Improved Sales Productivity: Sales groups can slice, dice and splice marketing details for new item sales, easily analyze present client up-selling opportunities, and seek out trends in assistance and item adoption.

9. Provides Situation Study Data: CRM alternatives allow supervisors to create case studies depending on client popular details. With this business intelligence, organization management can better create circumstances for grabbing business.

10. Precise Preparing, Trending and Forecasting: CRM software allows companies to build in constraints. This implies management can perspective planning, popular and predicting confirming with confidence.

11. Provides Uniformity Within a Team: With CRM application, groups across all companies see the same timely, accurate details. This implies better client responsiveness and less frustration among employees.

12. Fosters Competitive Spirit to Exceed Past Calculated Performance: With CRM techniques, organization management can use measured efficiency details and upcoming targets to encourage healthy competition among groups, motivating all to strive to beat goals. CRM software vendors compete for business, and they all provide basic CRM components: managing contacts, communicating across companies, supporting clients, and creating reviews.

Benefits of Web Based CRM Database

Web based CRM Databases are a great choice for easy set up. Unlike desktop or internally hosted CRM packages you don't have to worry about hardware upgrades or costly internal server equipment. That said, there are still a few steps you should take to achieve the most efficient CRM database implimentation.

Getting The Best Web Based CRM Database For Your Needs. 

Half the battle is choosing the right system in the first place. Be on the lookout for user friendly systems, practical functionality and overall speed. Most web based CRM providers will give you either a free demo account or a 30 day trial period. Don't be afraid to try a few systems out before you make a decision. It is very hard to change your CRM database once it is established, so getting it right from the beginning will save you time and money. Another area you should flag is training. Some systems may seem cheaper on a monthly basis but their fee doesn't include any training. Check out any training videos included with the web based CRM database and ask how much it would cost to hire one of their consultants to train your staff via webinar or if is possible to have someone come out on site.

Upgrade Your Software. 

The best thing about web based CRM databases is their flexibility. In most cases there is no need to upgrade your hardware but your software may need a bit of freshening up. Quite a few Web Based CRM systems work better in Mozilla Firefox (rather than internet explorer) since it's a more stable browser. Just ask your CRM provider which is the best browser for their system and what software updates they recommend. Easy!

Upload Any Previous Data. 

If you have an existing client database or manual client records you will need to get all that data into your new system. You have two options when it comes to uploading the data to your new system: manual or automatic.

A manual upload is the ideal solution, as you can eliminate dead client records, duplicate records and out of date files that could slow down your new system. However this is very time consuming and not possible for every business. If you just can't manage a manual data upload try to remove as many of the contaminated records as possible before transferring the data. Automatic upload methods include excel spreadsheets or a professional data migration from your CRM provider.

Customization. 

Once you've been using the system for a while (at least 3 months) you will have enough experience with the database to look into customization options. Make a list of current inefficiencies and possible system enhancements. Break this list down into 2 categories; 'essentials' and 'nice to haves'. Some systems offer user customization but most web based CRM databases don't. So it helps to be clear on your priorities before you approach your CRM provider for a quote.

The Advantages of Using CRM Software

Companies need to be careful with their customers and take care of them in order to get good profits. Customer relationship management or CRM software involves several areas starting from customer satisfaction to means and strategies that the companies can use to market their goods so that they can get more customers and also retain the old ones. Companies outsource such responsibilities to service providers so that they can take care of the core matters of the business and leave the application work to the servers. Companies might want to outsource their CRM to service providers they can choose to give half of the work to the hosts and maintain the other half as in-house CRM policies. Other companies can choose full transfer to the host. 

There are many benefits that a company can get if they opt to consider CRM software and its services. The most important factor to consider is cost. If a company decides to take care of their own CRM, that is, use the full in-house traditional CRM service, they will spend more money than one that opts to outsource their CRM tasks to the service provider companies.

Moreover, apart from cost, companies need to consider customer relationship management as a very important part of their business. Such companies get more profits than those companies who consider CRM as a secondary or tertiary area. Several researches have shown that CRM software is very efficient for small and growing companies that are yet to get enough funds that can fund a whole department which can be given the responsibility of handling the CRM needs of the whole company. Many small companies tend to think that paying for the customer relationship management services is too expensive. The companies that have taken the risk of paying for the services have proved that the profits are worth it. There are more profits in a well-managed CRM service. This means that the significance of CRM services is very visible. 

CRM software has been found to be very famous with small companies and there are a large number of companies that opt to outsource their CRM needs to the CRM service providers. This way the host company gets the privilege of customizing the hosted company's identity through knowing their products and services well.

Now that the responsibility is given to another company, the hosted company does not have to spend so much time evaluating the software market so as to be aware of new software products. Getting the services of service providers to give their opinions on the associated CRM software is the same as giving payment to another company to do research for them so as to get effective CRM updates and processes. So using an outsourcing company is a good way of tackling two tasks using one strategy.

Thus it is clear that CRM is now no more simple software. It has varied versions with various capabilities and advantages. Now it's up to you to decide and check which CRM version will best suit your organization's needs and demands!

CRM Solution : How to Select it

CRM Solution that required depends on many factors. The first : Processing Solution

The process of building CRM system can be divided into 2 periods: solution selection and implementation. A CRM solution selection is usually considered in many aspects and the most important one is: Does the solution fit with business strategy and current management system of the enterprise? Because the core of CRM is database and processing tools, thus CRM solution based on IT background prevails over other solutions. Therefore, some people think that selecting CRM solution is selecting database and CRM software.

At the beginning step of building CRM in enterprise, the first thing a manager thinks about is which database and CRM software should be used or how to build the CRM system to fit with selected CRM software. The following question is which technology platform the CRM software is based on. But, is technology the crucial factor to select a solution for CRM system in enterprise? The answer is NO.

CRM system implementation is to provide information and boost business process of the enterprise. That's why technology should be considered secondary concern and the first priority should be focused on support capability. In other words, it is method, settling process implemented by CRM system through algorithms used in information processing that be the crucial factor of the quality. In order make method and information processing work, they have to base on common factors (which are in accordance with rules) and specific factors (which are in accordance with operating mechanism in business and management activities of the enterprise).

A CRM system which cannot bring managers better information and improve enterprise business, it has no reason to exist. Nevertheless, the role of Information Technology in CRM is very important, it has great influence on project's feasibility and solution's utility such as: cost of CRM building and deployment; level and capability of addressing requirements of enterprise's managers.

Criteria to select CRM software

Providers often say that their products are powerful, suitable to any enterprise. In fact, is it true that features show capacity of the CRM software? The following are some oriented criteria that should be considered before selecting CRM software:

- Is the CRM software really suitable to the area which enterprise is working on? Each area has unique and typical features, this leads to different requirements in client strategy. The suitable software, apart from having functionalities that meet the demands, must give out guidance to implement business or similar modules, measures for users to select.

- How are contents of CRM expressed in the software? How much do the key tools of CRM in such areas as: marketing campaign management, sales management, customer care management appear in the software? Is there any forecast function in these systems? If any, what is the forecast method and how scalable are other forecast methods can be applied? In other words, does software provider have insight of CRM to create a product that can meet enterprise's demands?

- Resource requirements of enterprise in CRM software deployment and operation maintaining. Enterprise has to provide necessary resources such as: finance, IT infrastructure, man power etc. to not only CRM software deployment but also operation maintaining.

- Compatibility of the software to other existing applications in the enterprise. Based on list of programs, data management system... provided by manufacturers, system administrator must review the compatibility to CRM software in order to ensure that IT changes are acceptable.

- Capability of supporting interactivity and data collecting methods. For example, if enterprise wants to use the CRM anywhere, anytime it has to look for web-based CRM software.

- Customizability of CRM software. Customizability is not only the ability to change configuration, to change search and statistics processing algorithm but also ability to change database structure. Normally, database structure is nearly fixed when it is built to ensure its integrity, thus customizability can hardly exists. However, changing structure at some level can meet settle some issues rising in deployment without having to upgrade which is complicated and costly.

- The function of method suggestion and experience accumulation. This is not a typical feature of CRM but a requirement in common management software. Is the CRM software able to give out some feasible solutions based on existing data with management history stored in CRM database?

Besides, other factors such as: complex level in transfer process, usability, security, support from provider etc. should be considered to ensure CRM efficiency.

CRM helps Small Business .. How ??

CRM can help Small Business absolutely .. In this highly competitive world, medium and small business groups struggle for survival. As they established with small capital investments, these organizations usually will not have enough money to overcome the massive promotional campaigns by their large counterparts. Thus the most effective solution they got to keep their customers and to attract new clients is to enhance customer satisfaction through better customer service methods. The mouth publicity by the satisfied customers is the most useful advertising tool for these companies. Offering some great benefits to good customers and creating new plans for infrequent customers can boost the company turnover.

Today, Customer Relationship Management (CRM) programs have become the most effective tools for all marketing and service providing companies to enhance their customer satisfaction. Now, there are so many CRM vendors who offer different customized customer relationship management solutions according to business needs. You can purchase a standard pre-customized CRM solution or an open source CRM solution, or can hire a hosted/on demand CRM solution. The choice mainly depends on your business structure and volume.

Customer relationship management programs enhance the customer-friendly services by automating all proceedings and procedures in a company. All CRM systems are primarily large customer databases capable of storing all customer information such as customer's name, address, customer contacting method, ability to spend money on products, money spending per visit etc. The specific programs built in these systems integrate the stored data on demand to identify good customers and help to create better service plans for them.

CRM software systems are capable of automating every thing involved in a small business. The main features of a CRM solution include sales force automation, data tracking, data migration, data integration, contact management, account management, opportunity management, customer service training, custom reporting, product management, lead routing, lead assignment, task management, calendaring, quota management, territory management, partner tracing, sales forecasting, customization analytics, sales analytics, trouble shooting, etc.

For small sized companies, there are two popular CRM options as open source CRM and hosted or on-demand CRM. Open source CRM software programs are customizable CRM programs. These programs are available in standard formats, which can be customized according to the company needs. But the requirement with these CRM solutions is your company must have enough technical knowledge to customize the program. Also there are some pre-customized CRM versions available today.

Hosted CRM or on demand CRM is a web-based application provided by an ASP (Application Service Provider), is an example of SaaS (Software-as-a-Service). In this type of CRM solution, all your CRM needs are satisfied by a distant CRM provider. The CRM provider or host will automate all proceedings including data tracking, data integration and data migration. The provider will offer the CRM solutions on your demand and will charge a monthly fee for that. Benefits of on demand CRM include reduction in the initial cost essential for installing a CRM system and accessibility from any part of the world at any time. But before signing a contract with any on demand CRM provider, make sure that he uses special data encryption techniques for securing your data. Also check the data integration capacity of the provider.

Today an another alternative, namely open source hosted CRM, which combines the merits of both open source and hosted CRM is becoming rapidly popular. This CRM solution is proven effective in tackling specific situations. For all CRM types, most providers now offer 30 days free trail, making use of these offers can help you to find a good CRM solution for your company.

how to choose the best crm for your business

Learning the ins and outs of any software package is never an easy task, trying to find the time to learn it all within the limits of a free trial, and then apply it to your specific business needs can prove to be a complete turn off!

For the uneducated CRM mind, choosing the right on demand Customer Relationship Management platform, 'on demand' meaning a fully hosted solution that you access over the Internet; can be a logistical nightmare.

From simple acronyms such as CRM, SFA (Sales Force Automation) and ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) to the more complex terms such as Application Programming Interface and Workflow Automation, there is an overwhelming amount of information you need to know before you really begin to look at a product.

This article aims to address these issues and encourage you to take a more conceptual approach to learning and understanding CRM. Consider this; every site you visit will more often than not appear to be the answer to your prayers. However, knowing what to look for can quickly rule out the pretenders from the contenders.

# First off, ask yourself can I customize the product?, or can they customize the product for me? Any company pushing a product that cannot be tailored to suit your needs is not worth your time. No matter what they say or preach, their solution cannot meet the needs of every individual company's business needs.

# Secondly, look for a company and product that has multiple editions/platforms, such a company has worked with different industries already and tailored their product to meet specific industry needs, and is obviously willing to work with their customers.

# Third, look for a road map, investing in a company that offers no information on the direction of their product, and future version/feature releases does not show a willingness to meet your future business needs. You want a product that will grow along with you, not one that will hamstring you as you grow.

# Finally, look for a product that is applicable across your company, if you are paying full value for a CRM solution; make sure you can use the application across your enterprise. Having a fully hosted operating system backed by and Service Level Agreement will ensure that your entire organization is on the same page.

In conclusion acquiring the right CRM package is no easy task, however, researching the market based on the above criteria will ensure you acquire a CRM solution that will meet your specific needs today, and continue to meet your needs as you grow.

Web Based CRM For Banks

Banks have to make several transactions in a day; buyers have to give their email, phone numbers, address, names, social security number and credit card information. Huge amount of information is processed everyday and all this needs companies to used CRM solutions to keep the details and information safe and efficiently managed. Without proper management of information it becomes difficult for a banking institution to know the status and funds available in the account of a particular customer. This will cause disturbance in relationship with the consumers and will also make them go to other institutions to enjoy similar or better services. Satisfying the needs of the customers is the primary requisite of every business. No business can do without healthy relationship with customers. 

Safeguarding your Data Bank: Information more than just a mere phone number. They provide complete credit card information and social security numbers, ensuring that these details would not be used or compromised by the online crooks, you can easily secure their information and detail with web based CRM for banks. There have been many situations in the past when customers have suffered a great loss because of the negligence of the banks and companies in securing their personal information. Therefore customers now have become more aware and know very well which company to trust and which not. Nowadays online websites show a government digital certificate such as VeriSign or Thawte that confirms the legitimacy of a particular website or a gold lock or key that tells the consumers that their detail is encrypted or scrambled the moment they move away from the website to a zip to the relevant website. 

Web based Customer relationship management for banks gives the vital firewalls to safeguard the databank from spyware, malicious ware and various electronic mischiefs. These web based CRM solutions supports security with coated systems that can catch attacks which cannot be detected otherwise. When choosing a Customer relationship management system you must make sure that you are receiving greatest security for the detail you share with your consumers and business delegates. You must check the background of the company and also inquire their authenticity from customers who have already used their product or service. This helps you in saving your money and time. Also, it keeps you away from fraudulent companies who are always seeking for customer to misuse their details and information and cause a loss to their business. The next factor that you should keep in mind is the kind of features and applications CRM software offers. 

Customized Solutions : Various businesses need different kind of information. Hotels will require a CRM that can assist them to decide menu after looking at the change in the tastes of the customer's and improving fashions. Other company will need tools that can be linked to the information of the customer instantly. Some need online-chat features to solve the queries of their customers immediately. Therefore, it is necessary to choose a CRM solution for your company that satisfies all your needs and requirements. Most of the service providers offer their customers with an option to get customization. 

You should make sure that you confirm its validity with other so that you do not have to suffer from any kind of loss in this respect. The company should install it on your computer and must also provide you with free online support every time. You can also compare the cost between different companies online so that you do not suffer from loss in terms of cost, features and benefits. Keeping such points in mind will assist you in choosing the CRM software provider.

How CRM Can Build and Maintain Customer Loyalty

Is your business's shop floor taking full advantage of a customer relationship management (CRM) system? If not, you might not only be failing to earn your clients' loyalty, you might also outright be losing them. CIS Magazine found this topic so important that it recently ran a feature article titled .Top Ten Tips to Build and Keep Customer Loyalty with CRM. 

Before delving into some of those strategies, let's get a better picture of CRM. Short for customer relationship management, CRM is an enterprise resource planning (ERP) module that is a key element to factory floor efficiency. A company-wide computer software system ERP is used to manage and coordinate all the resources, information, and functions of a business from shared data stores, explains Wikipedia. 

Shop floor managers can get the most out of ERP (and CRM) with a real-time data collection system that utilizes touch screen capabilities. That's because such a scheduling system visually improves the sequencing of production (and raw materials) through a PC-based system that is completely interfaced with most ERP and MRP systems. 

Now that you know what ERP and CRM are, let's get back to their customer loyalty advantages according to the experts at CIS Magazine. 

1. One experience does not fit all. Software switches inside a real-time data collection system allow shop floor managers to configure the product to match the way they do business. 

2. Don't wait, anticipate. A solid factory floor management system enables managers to touch, monitor and adapt every one of their specific shop processes for real-time improvement that delivers greater profitability. 

3. Strive for first experience resolution. A high-quality management system helps factory floor managers discover and resolve problems faster. Reminders appear to inform of special instructions. Shift-to-shift information is contained on screen. An easy-to-use email system distributes messages to specific areas or persons. Automatic notification of a floor problem is displayed so action can be taken immediately. 

4. Respond fact to critical interactions. A shop floor management system allows businesses to compete on speed. While traditional planning systems are accounting based meaning they measure cost, but do nothing to improve performance and increase production speed a real-time management system is based on the actual "activity" of the floor. It modifies and adjusts work in progress based on actual "real world" production events, with the goal of improved performance. 

5. Increase access to real-time information. A shop floor management system delivers real-time, continuous improvement for greater profitability and faster delivery to customers. By blending planning technology with new, factory floor activity technology, such a system affords employees the opportunity to use touch screen computers right where they need them on the factory floor. As a result, they can enter and retrieve data on the spot, providing their clients with new instantaneous updates. They simply touch-in current job data in a real-time environment that improves accuracy and provides a faster time to discovery of problems. 

To get the competitive edge that keeps you in touch with your factory floor and that builds customer loyalty and retention look for a reputable enterprise resource planning (ERP) system that implements a solid customer relationship management (CRM) module. 

Web CRM Software for Sales People

Customer Relationship Management software or CRM is an application specifically designed to help a company in managing complete data related to its customers, from advertising to initial lead, sale and ongoing support. Basically, it makes full profile of a client which is then available to other employees of the firm and permits the administration to watch and monitor each other's schedules. However, simply presenting a solution doomed to realize organizational objectives is not enough to get success in CRM. 

Web based CRM software 

Web based CRM software provides clients with some incredible benefits over traditional CRM client/server technology. With web based customer relationship management system, one can possess a "cross platform" compatibility which is built on first rate technology. There are so many web based CRM products available in order to suit businesses requirements, about finding out who their potential client is or what precisely are their needs. Getting acquainted with this information that web based CRM solution renders to its clients will give power to business in long run due to reduced advertisement cost. It is imperative to any advertisement business possessor to have a serious look on web based CRM solutions and also what that deal will entail or furnish in terms of potential revenue margins. 

Is this web based CRM solution right for you? 

In this era of remote clients, sometimes the program that can be configured only on single system is not a best alternative. Sales people, working from home, may require accessing information regarding customers or prospects from a distant location. Finding apt CRM software solution is important because, regardless of the software one opts, it will represent monetary investment. Web based CRM or hosted CRM solutions work terrifically for companies that have many telecommuting employees. For example, a business that has engaged outsourcing sales workers, home based members can promote from hosted CRM program. It will permit all sales people to obtain same information, with the condition that they should have high speed net connection. 

Benefits of web based software 

Web based CRM solutions enable clients to streamline their customer qualification, retention process and acquisition. Large as well as small business firms earn profits with CRM programs as they aid them to capitalize on marketing effectiveness, speed up sales process and furnish with single view client data. Moreover, they also cut down operational expenses and improve customer interaction. Some most important benefits of customer relationship management software are: 

Information sharing 

Workers can share information quickly and easily, despite of the fact that they are situated miles apart while a non web based relationship management software would need customers to be connected with office network in order to pool information. 

No pricey upgrade needed 

One would not need to shell out much on upgrading server's hardware as all data is kept stored in server site, not local server. For medium to small scale companies on limited budget, it is really an imperative benefit. Additionally, updates to program are done automatically 

How to select right web CRM software? 

Choosing an apt web based CRM software involves a team of people to represent and serve functional requirements of different departments and this of course, requires full collaboration and cooperation amongst managers, customers and users. Normally, one is free to select from several potential service providers or software vendors and conduct a test of functionality on each of them and this is where web CRM software works ideally. So, consider signing up for 3 or 4 free service trails, make a complete checklist of desired features, clarify all doubts and then see how it appears when all comes together. 

Evaluating the technical support of the service provider is an important factor and must be considered. At the end, always bear in mind that your web based CRM software will be developing and as a result implementation will never stop completely. This ongoing development of one's business activities will help him or her exploit the perks customer relationship management software can bring to the organization.

Using Crm Software To Gain And Keep Clients

Not all companies use CRM software, and companies that do use it often find that surprising. They know the benefits of the CRM software and how much it can do for their companies. They find that they can get more clients and keep the ones they have when they use it, as well. Naturally, keeping clients is vital. However, getting new ones is also something that needs to be done. By using CRM software, clients can be reassured. They are treated well, and they feel as though their opinion matters. Because of this, they often tell others of their experiences with a particular company. In doing so, word of mouth advertising spreads quickly. Those who hear about the quality of the company may then try it, and more clients will be gained. 

The way that CRM keeps customers feeling secure, and the way that it brings in new ones through word of mouth work together to allow for a lot of help for companies. It is remarkable how many companies are now moving toward using this software. Generally, it is larger companies. However, this is not because CRM software is not good for smaller companies. Instead, it is because larger companies simply have more difficulty keeping track of their clients. They usually have a larger client base, and they also have more people who may need access to that information. For smaller companies, however, getting and using CRM software can be very beneficial. It enables them to be ready when they grow and their client base expands. 

This is highly important for companies that feel as though they must continue to build the number of clients that they have. These companies want to be ready for whatever comes next, and this is a good idea, especially for smaller companies. Larger ones can also benefit , though, because they still want to gain new clients. Just because someone has a good client base, he or she usually still wants more. Clients come and go, and getting a steady flow of new ones will not only help the client base grow, but will also help to replace clients who may leave for various reasons. Even a good company will lose clients. This is often through no fault of their own. Clients may relocate. Some may pass away. Still others may find a better deal, a company closer to home, or something that they feel better about. 

CRM software can be used for many different things. Most commonly it is used to store names and dates. However, there are many other things it can do. Companies use it to keep track of their client's purchases and returns. It is also often used to remind salespeople of important appointments and to ensure that they do not forget their clients. This can mean sending out anniversary and birthday cards, returning phone calls more promptly, and handling many other areas of life that are important to business interactions. Overall, using CRM software is one of the best choices that a company can make. 

What CRM Software Really Is

CRM software is generally mentioned in a lot of specific business circles, and a lot of people are familiar with the CRM term. They do not, however, necessarily know what CRM software actually is or what it can do for a person's business. For a person to know what the software is capable of, it is important for that person to understand what the software is. There is a common misunderstanding that CRM software is nothing more than a way to store customers' names and numbers, and that any interest in what the software can or should do does not go beyond that. This is, though, a very inaccurate assumption. CRM software provides much more than simply a way to store contacts and remember people's names and numbers. 

Names, phone and fax numbers, email addresses, and physical addressed can all be stored in the CRM software. In addition, however, birthdays, anniversaries, and other important dates can be saved. Returns, purchases, buying information, and how long extended warranties are good for, as well as information on extended coverage plans, are also all addressed by CRM software. These kinds of information are very important to the efficient running of a business, but many small business owners do not feel that having this software is really necessary. This could be accurate with a business for only one or two people. However, even a very small business can have a lot of clients, and those clients can be remembered with CRM software so that there are no problems with their future orders or correspondence. 

Especially if people use a company frequently and do a lot of repeat business there, they want to feel like they matter to that company. These people appreciate it when their birthday is remembered, when they are asked to take a survey and give their opinion, or when they are reminded that their warranty is about to expire. People enjoy thinking that the company that they work with and give their money to wants to let them know that they are appreciated. CRM software is very helpful in allowing business people to remember their clients with the click of a button. Because the conversations and telephone calls can be easily recorded, people who talk with a customer in the future will be able to see what has been done in the past. This is especially helpful for individuals who may have problems with equipment or services from a certain business. 

The CRM software is basically designed to take care of everything all at once, so that all of a client's information can be easily stored. Of course, it can also be used for vendors and other individuals, because they are also very important to a business. A business can remain on the cutting edge of their industry an keep their clients happy by using CRM software to keep track of both clients and vendors. 

Best CRM Software Solutions For Small Businesses

Companies across different industry verticals ceaselessly endeavour to enhance their business productivity. They undertake thorough market research and adopt innovative measures so as to boost their business revenue and sustain their market credibility. 

Good Customer Relationship Management support is the key to the success of an ecommerce venture. CRM support creates a uniform platform for customer interface with the business. It is even more important if one is running an ecommerce venture as A CRM application makes different CRM tasks like taking an order, invoice payment and shipping very easy. An organization compiles the database of current and prospective customers. CRM support software always helps to building strong and powerful customer relationships. It organizes the contact information of customers. The interactions with customers are entered and stored which can be accessed by employees from different departments. CRM application is not just all about collecting data, but it is the proper analysis and interpretation of the collected data to predict customers' habits, buying preferences and tastes for making customized discounts and offers, thus making concrete relations with them. 

Online accounting software designed by adept software professionals keeps track of business finances. Ideal for small, medium and large businesses, this software renders real business value. Investment in such software helps to gain insight into crucial financial activities. This cutting edge software boosts business productivity saving time and money and cuts business costs. It features accounting program, reporting and analysis capabilities. This software simplifies and automates financial management processes. It also improves accuracy, timeliness and accessibility of mission critical financial data. 

Besides Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software tracks customer transactions and activities. It facilitates lead and prospect management, marketing campaigns and wave management etc. Available at an affordable price it facilitates contact or entity centred views. This software adds various incoming and outgoing emails and faxes to contact activities. In short, it is efficient in emails and fax management. The feature-rich software manages outbound call and user interface and bears business intelligence dashboards. It further helps in case management including cash dashboard, service level agreements, case escalation, etc. Various companies offer such software and are ideal for enhancing business prospects. Those companies which are into ecommerce domain adopt latest range of shopping cart software that renders best ecommerce shopping solutions. Besides offering easy online shopping facilities, this software meets today's ecommerce challenges. It is designed in adherence to the client's business model and latest software technologies are used for the purpose. This software features web hosting, complete security, credit card processing etc. and efficiently tracks customer behaviour. Apart from offering competitive pricing of products and services, shopping cart features that are used in ecommerce websites help in making smart shopping.

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Opensource CRM software : SugarCRM

Customer relationship management (CRM) is an approach to managing a company’s interactions with current and future customers. It often involves using technology to organize, automate, and synchronize sales, marketing, customer service, and technical support.

Sugar offers the broadest range of deployment options for on-premise and cloud, and is the industry’s most highly customizable CRM platform based on open technologies. Only Sugar gives users the level of flexibility needed to truly create differentiated, winning CRM strategies. Whether onsite, in the cloud, or On-Demand, Sugar offers the same level of functionality, customization and integration with 3rd party systems and tools. This means starting your CRM initiative knowing that Sugar scales with your business— no matter how large or customized.

Sugar system that is available in both open-source and commercial open-source applications. 

Take advantage of the power inside the Sugar platform and bring the Sugar advantage to your business. Here’s how:

Automate 

Powerful workflow tools in Sugar allow you to automate and optimize even the most complex business practices – to heighten customer experiences, drive productivity and reduce operating costs.

Customize 

Your CRM system should run like your business, not the other way around. Only Sugar offers fast, simple customization without limits. With Sugar, your CRM is as unique as you.

Extend 

Whether going global and taking advantage of the more than 26 supported languages and currencies; or integrating with the hundreds of third party tools and apps in the Sugar ecosystem – the Sugar platform makes it easier than ever.

Personalize 

With the ability to deploy your CRM on your terms, and in the location of your choice – with Sugar you reap the benefits greater control and ownership. The Sugar platform can run virtually anywhere – helping global companies comply with government and industry mandates, provide greater data privacy, and simply have greater access and control over sensitive customer data.

Watch The Demo

You can Try Suagr for free (Free Trial) or See PRICING and choose the best edition and pricing for your business

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Source, Wikipedia

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