Having customer relationship management (CRM) software in place can benefit your growing business. It helps you keep track of relationships with current and prospect customers. Using a data-driven approach, CRM software is able to monitor leads and store valuable client information such as phone numbers, email addresses, and past interactions in a single platform.
This software offers a variety of tools that can carry out different tasks – from automating emails to generating real-time dashboards that show business performance data and other insights.
A CRM that is delivered via Software-as-a-Service model is typically hosted on a central server and customers have to pay a certain fee to access it on a subscription basis. Subscriptions are charged on a per-user, per-month, or per-year basis.
CRM plans are usually divided into tiers, so customers have a choice whether to opt for an enterprise-level tool or for a solution with affordable price but fewer features.
How do you choose what MSP CRM software to get? Here are some pieces of advice you can use.
1. What kind of deployment do you like: Cloud or On-premise?
There are two ways on how to deploy CRM – cloud or on premise. Both have its advantages and disadvantages.
With cloud CRM software, you won’t be required to have a server or technical expertise. You just need to log into the program and you’re good to go. All information will be stored on the service provider’s server. The downside of it is you won’t be able to access your data if your internet connection fails.
On the other hand, if you choose on premise solutions, you will have to pay for your own software and it will be hosted at your physical location. You also need to hire in-house IT personnel and purchase the necessary equipment.
The good thing about this is you’ll have direct access to servers, so you can easily integrate with other applications. In addition, there won’t be any recurrent subscription charges to think about.
2. Features and Functionality
Every business’ process, customer base, and growth dynamic are unique. As such, it is important to get MSP CRM software that has flexible functions.
Pay only for the features you need and just scale up as necessary. Take into account the type of users you have and the functionalities that will be useful for them.
Your needs change as your business evolves. With this in mind, you have to ensure that the CRM software you choose can be easily upgraded.
3. Integration with other applications
Another thing to consider when choosing MSP CRM software is its ability to integrate with other applications. Some CRM services promote integration with Microsoft, while others work well with Google. There are also solutions that provide extensive support for third-party applications.
Choose a CRM tool that can streamline your business operations. Make sure that it can integrate well with the applications you already have. This may include accounting software, HR software, billing and e-commerce platforms, as well as marketing solutions.
4. Request for a free trial
Do not fall for an MSP CRM system’s face value. It’s better to try it out first. Start off by requesting a live or online demonstration. As the sales staff walks you through the basics of the software, you can ask specific questions about their product. After which, you can move on with the trial version. This will allow you to get a feel of how everything works and see its strengths and weaknesses. Check out its ease of use, core features, and scalability.
5. How is its user experience?
You must also consider the user experience when selecting MSP CRM software. Ask the vendor the following questions:
- Does it help you get the job done?
- Does it have an intuitive user experience design?
- Does it respond slow or fast to your actions?
- Are the buttons labeled clearly?
- Is the flow of actions arranged logically?
- Is the interface user-friendly?
Also, take into account the amount of time you spend doing a specific task. All of these are part of the user-experience.
You don’t want to end up using a poorly designed software so you should be thorough when checking the product’s trial version.
Conclusion
When looking for MSP CRM software, you need to understand your organization’s needs and the size and scope of your team. Having balanced features can bring the right amount of innovation to your company.
If you want to upgrade and streamline your technology management tools, ITarian can help. Call us today at 844-220-2223 to learn about the solutions we offer.