As we head into the second quarter of the year, it is the perfect time to evaluate your technology set-up and whether it is performing as expected so-far.
In some cases, the technology that supports a business is an after-thought, and not considered early in the goal-setting process. However, how you manage data and processes across the company is a crucial part to get right and can have a significant impact on achieving the targets set.
As a Microsoft Gold Partner, we work with a lot of companies who are running an entire business off complex spreadsheets and manual processes, recognising that there are more efficient ways to manage information. Understandably, for new business owners, spreadsheets can be a lifesaver. They can be used to track finances, basic customer data, new leads, etc. However, as your business grows and you need to capture more information, spreadsheets become cumbersome and difficult to manage.
Eventually, you will require software that can support your growth, manage your customer relationships and all relevant information effectively, and fit around your requirements today, and those in the future.
Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software resolves these challenges, providing the ability to store all information in a centralised database and offering features to streamline your daily tasks, enhance productivity, increase opportunities and more.
Discovering New Technology
Understanding the benefits of a CRM system:
Better lead management
Using spreadsheets to manage a large quantity of leads can quickly become frustrating. Capturing relevant information, such as notes, calls, emails, etc, in an easy-to-read and actionable manner within a spreadsheet can be complicated and difficult to use. Additionally, there is no automation involved, relying solely on manual processes.
A CRM system is designed with lead management in mind and therefore offers a far greater user experience. You have the ability to store detailed information about leads and clients, link to relevant records, track all relevant communications, automate reminders to ensure that follow-ups are not missed, and more.
Enhanced collaboration and data access
Organisations who use spreadsheets will understand how complicated things can get when spreadsheets are shared, and various people are working on different versions. Additionally, spreadsheets are not known for being overly mobile-friendly, which is a problem for users who need access on-the-go.
A CRM centralises all information and overcomes the above challenges. Users are able to view records at the same time, changes made by one user are instantly visible to others, and information can be accessed from any device on-the-go.
Integrate with your other software
Occasionally, businesses will need to transfer information into other systems and spreadsheets can present challenges, with a lot of manual tasks involved. Additionally, they can not integrate with other software such as your email system, for example.
With a CRM system, such as Microsoft Dynamics 365, you can leverage integrations with other applications in the Microsoft eco-system (such as Outlook, OneNote, SharePoint, etc) and other third-party systems (such as Xero or Sage). This increases efficiency as users can work within one solution and reduces the risk of human error.
These are just a few examples of areas where a CRM system can support, however, there are many other features and benefits that help to keep your business moving forward successfully.
Is it time for a change?
As mentioned at the start, a new quarter welcomes an opportunity to review your technology and identify areas where improvements can be made. We work with a variety of businesses to understand their challenges, pain points, current processes, objectives and future goals. From this, the right technology can be identified that will be best support your business and help reach the goals for the rest of 2024, and beyond.
Want to learn more about the Microsoft Dynamics 365 CRM Applications?
We specialise in the CRM element of Dynamics 365, which includes the applications Sales, Customer Service, Marketing, Field Service and Project Operations. The CRM applications aim to support businesses to qualify leads, manage sales opportunities, improve processes, build stronger relationships, optimise marketing campaigns, and gain a clearer view of your business.
Get in Touch
If you would like to discuss how Pragmatiq can support your business, please get in touch via the contact form below, or email us at info@pragmatiq.co.uk / call us on 01908 038110.
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