A CRM should help you keep track of people and follow up at the right time. It shouldn’t become the admin job everyone avoids. Before you get dazzled by a demo, work out what your team actually needs it to do.
Start with your sales process
Before comparing software, map how a lead moves through your business. Where does it come from, who makes contact, what information must be captured and when does a quote become a customer? The CRM should fit your process, not force your team into an unsuitable workflow.
Consider integrations
Your CRM may need to connect with your website, email, WhatsApp, accounting software, payment systems and other tools. Check integration options before you choose.
Keep data clean
A CRM is only useful if the data is trustworthy. Set required fields, define who owns which data and create a process for keeping records up to date.
Do not overbuy
Enterprise platforms include hundreds of features a smaller company will never use, and every extra feature means more configuration, training and cost. Pick the platform that solves today's key problems and leaves room to grow.
When should you consider a custom CRM?
When your processes are unusual, your workflows are complex or you need tight integration with other systems, custom software can make more sense than bending a generic platform. Base the decision on the value of the workflow and the limits of existing tools.
A CRM should improve the business
It should reduce admin, improve visibility and make follow up easier. We help businesses evaluate software, and build custom systems when off the shelf tools no longer fit how the company works.