Every business is different, so when buying a CRM system it is not a one size fits all. What might work for one company may not work best for you. It is important to understand the facts about a CRM and the differences between them before choosing the one will work best for your business. Here are 7 steps that will help you choose the right CRM for your business.

1.    Know the cost.

Since each CRM is different and there are many types of software available on the market, there is not one set price. The cost can range pretty drastically, starting from a few dollars a month to a few thousand. The determining factor in finding a cost will depend on the size of your company and the needs you are looking for.

2.    Look at what will work best with your company’s workflow.

Since every company is slightly different and every CRM system can vary, it is important to find the software that will align best with your company’s workflow. Most CRMs will have some form of task management center, but the level of customization will entirely depend on the brand you choose. There are definitely pros to choosing one that already has a general management tool in place, but if your company is a bit more specialized, you may want to be able to adjust the workflow.

3.    Find what will boost your company’s marketability.

Some CRM software even include marketing tools to help improve and advance your company’s marketing to the next level. This can range from various templates to messaging features and even the ability to project forecasts and track competitors. If you already have a solid marketing team, then this may not be a necessary feature for you.

4.    Which CRM will aid in sales?

Similar to the marketing tools a CRM has, there are some that offer ways to help boost sales by generating new business leads through the use of social media, emails, and other sources. There are even features that can allow you to track the various stages of the selling process from attracting new clients to selling your products.

5.    Make sure the CRM is compatible with your current software.

You want to make sure that the CRM software you choose is compatible with any other software you may use in your business. It would be a major hassle to deal with changing multiple systems in order for it to work with your new CRM software. Make sure everything works together to ensure a smooth transition. Talk with representatives like those at Spiro to make sure that all the software will function properly together.

6.    Is the CRM easy to use?

Make sure that when buying your CRM that your team likes the product and will use the system. If your team doesn’t like it or if it isn’t easy to learn, it can create added difficulties to the productivity around the office. Make sure that training is offered or that users will be able to get help learning how to use it if they get stuck or have any problems.

7. How is the Customer Service?

Any time you’re purchasing software, customer service is a big part of that, and a CRM is no exception. Be sure that the company you choose to work with offers ongoing service, and read the reviews about the company online before deciding on one.

Buying a new CRM software is a big undertaking for your business and there is a lot to think about before actually committing and purchasing a system. There are steps you can take to make sure you save yourself from frustration down the road. CRM software can be an investment to better your business, if purchased with the proper research.