With a CRM system, you are gifted with the power to keep an updated customer data, manage the accounts effectively, and track all the interactions you made with them. It helps you improve your relationship with the customers. Every time that your customers reach out to you, they are bound to take action. Richard Bishara suggests that you should have a proper way to store these pieces of information. Otherwise, you will end up losing business opportunities.
What is a CRM System?
Fundamentally, a CRM system is software that enables you to effectively manage your relationship with your clients or customers. In return, this will help in the growth of your business by identifying customers that can readily be converted and by keeping in touch with them. However, Richard Bishara believes that CRM goes beyond customer relationships. It also helps you manage your connection with other people such as your service users, suppliers, and colleagues.
The standard type of CRM system allows you to store the information of your customer and your prospect in a central location. You can easily access and share it with your employees. It allows you to keep track of the interactions that you’ve made in the past. All the inquiries that you received, presentations made, meetings held, emails, and phone calls sent, all of these can be tracked, which allows you to customize the customer’s experience. With a better comprehension of your customers, it gives you a better chance to win them.
Should I Choose a Cloud or Client-Server?
If you now understand the benefits of having a CRM system, there are still a bunch of decisions that you have to make. Richard Bishara believes that you will have to look for a system that is apt for your business. Will you go for a desktop or a cloud server?
- Cost - The initial investment (which includes the purchase of the system and installation) is cheaper when you choose a desktop system. With a cloud server, the start-up cost is also minimal, but you will have to settle a monthly fee.
- Security - With a client-server, you will have to be responsible for your security. You also have the option to hire a data supplier to handle it for you. On the other hand, the maintenance of data on a cloud server is handled by your CRM supplier. They are responsible for keeping the system updated as a part of the monthly fee.
- Competitiveness - If you are using a desktop system, adding new functions and features to keep up with all the technological innovations will be intricate and sometimes expensive. On cloud systems, the supplier will be introducing new options. Activating them only requires a hit of the button.
- Mobility - On a client-server, the mobility depends upon the installed client. In some cases, access can be limited to the laptop. With a Cloud server, you can enjoy internet security regardless of your mode of access. You can access them at home, in the office, or while on the move.
When looking for the right CRM system, Richard Bishara recommends a system that is Social Media capable and mobile-friendly. You should have the ability to run and check the system through your phone. You should also be able to monitor it when you are interacting with your customers on various social media platforms.
