How to implement CRM solution

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The success of any CRM solution is largely dependant upon the commitment of your organization. The benefits described above will not be realized by buying software and installing it. Here it is vital to get “buy-in” from the top down within these teams, and you might as well get the marketing folks involved too. Next you need to decide on the types of customer information you want to collect and what you plan to do with it. For example, many grocery stores keep track of customers' purchase history in order to market appropriate items likely to fit into their individual diets. Custom coupon packets can be mailed to customers with products specific to their buying habits. This results in increased sales while at the same time giving the customer what they want.

Next, you will need to identify all possible ways new and existing customer information can flow into your system. Where and how this information gets stored, as well as, how it will be used and by whom. Your company, for instance, may interact with customers in a variety of ways including mail campaigns, seminars, trade shows, electronic marketing, Web sites, call centers, help desks and sales forces. Your CRM solution will connect all of these customer “touch points” giving all of your various employees the same view of the data. Powerful analytical tools allow the data to be manipulated and reports generated that can provide a holistic view of customers and prospects. Armed with this customer knowledge allows you to take the necessary steps to keep that customer happy.
Astir IT has trained specialists available to help with your deployment. We can help with your business process analysis and refinement, and customize and install Microsoft Dynamics CRM and train your staff. As CRM experts we bring a lot of value to whole implementation process and look forward to be a long term partner as your business grows.

How much does CRM cost?
The cost of implementation varies depending on your needs. Today there are hosted versions available for as little as $65/user per month to full-blown implementations that cost a few million dollars. If you are using an external agency to help you implement, you should expect the cost of their services to be at least equal to the cost of the software and hardware for a small implementation. For larger implementations, the cost of the services tends to be much higher.

How do I ensure a successful CRM implementation?

First and foremost, get executive level buy-in and commitment to the project. Make certain that they understand the importance of their role in upholding that commitment and communicate it downwards through the organization.
Make the project fun and rewarding. Give all key employees who will be using the system incentives for making it work. Involve them in the early planning and implementation stages. Take their feedback seriously. This will give them ownership in the project.
Break the entire project down into smaller manageable pieces with small milestones. Work with all departments to maintain a team methodology.
Use a robust database platform. CRM systems collect huge amounts of data very rapidly. Make sure your solution can grow and perform accordingly.
Keep in mind that your system is designed around the customer and prospect. Make sure that it is used to its potential in serving them well.

What department should be responsible for CRM?
This question comes up a lot. The simple answer is everyone. What we mean is try to spread project responsibilities across all departments that will have a hand in the success of the solution. Usually the IT department takes the lead in . This will ensure consistent buy-in across the organization and enforce team attitudes and ownership. Don’t forget that commitment needs to come from and be supported by the top execs!

Can a CRM system be customized for my vertical?
Microsoft CRM is open enough to allow even the most complex customization that can mold that CRM system to practically any vertical. Systems can easily be customized to work exactly the way your industry needs them to work, yet it will save countless hours of manual labor and frustration in dealing with customers and prospects. Many industry pundits see these custom vertical CRM systems as the real future of the application.