What is a CRM-system and how do I choose one?

Differences between CRM and ERP

Both ERP and CRM are two systems which happen to boost the profitability of organizations. Many think these systems are similar or same which is not the case. In as much they are identical in many ways, their functionalities are entirely different. When viewed separately, it's easier to determine the differences.

What is CRM?

This is a system that's designed to record and store all information associated with customer interactions. CRM systems such as Salesforce and Microsoft Dynamics CRM provide methods for collecting and sharing customer data. They also catalog customer interactions. sales CRM can be used across all organizational departments. For instance, it can be used by executives in creating sales projections, shipping clerks to verify address, billing departments to create invoices, and sales reps to maintain contact with clients.
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What is ERP?

While CRM focuses on clients, ERP focuses on business. ERP is a system that improves business processes efficiency. It allows the rapid sharing of information across the entire organization department. Employees, managers, and executives enter information into ERP system; create a real-time, enterprise-wide snapshot. A problem in a particular area automatically creates alerts in other affected areas. This gives the department an opportunity to tackle issues before they become real problems. Therefore, ERP provides a method of streamlining business operations across the board.

A distinction with a difference

Though similar regarding effect, CRM and ERP apply different approaches to increase profits. Majorly ERP focuses on reducing overheads and cutting cost. Also, ERP minimizes the amount of money spent on processes. On the hand, CRM increases profitability through the production of higher sales volume.
Whether a business needs both systems, it depends on the size and complexity of the venture. In a small business, CRM system can be used to collect data instead of a manual collection. ERP is an invaluable system in streamlining complex business processes. It provides snapshots of every department of a business.

Assigning importance

Deciding on which system is more effective is like determining the value of an engine and steering wheel in a car. CRM is the engine because it drives business by improving sales and increasing profits. While on the hand, ERP is the steering wheel that guides the company through obstacles in advance. The two systems when working together, they increase profit and reduce costs.

Which one comes first?

Before worrying about streamlining processes, every business already has operations. Profits are mandatory before any plan of cutting costs. CRM is the first bet for any business first investment. Generating and maintaining sales is the base of everything in a business. CRM enables a company to grow up to a point ERP becomes a necessity.

Maximizing growth

Capital can be increased in two ways, that's via more sales or fewer expenses. Using the two systems allows the business to pursue these avenues. CRM brings in more revenue through excellent sales figures; While ERP reduces overall operating expenses. The two system combined can help a business to pursue growth through simultaneous efficiency and expansion.

Do you need ERP system or CRM system or both?

If you want to improve your sales and marketing process, and you are confident with the software you are using in things such as accounting and finance, then all you need is a new CRM system. On the other hand, If you want to overhaul the entire software system in your business, or you are in a period of growth, consider a new ERP system.
What if you reach to that point where you got a perfect ERP system that ticks all the boxes, but when it comes to CRM components it disappoints? Don't get stressed; nowadays it's much easier to integrate a CRM system with an ERP system. And if you are after a standalone CRM system, you have been checking out Salesforce. This is because Salesforce is a dominant force in CRM world; hence ERP cannot beat them but join them by easy integration process with Salesforce.
For instance, Microsoft has integrated Salesforce with a myriad of offerings such as Skype for business, Windows 10 and OneNote. Also, Salesforce offers an extensive knowledge base which allows developers to work with API to perform custom integration using major platforms such as Oracle and SAP. If you want to implement ERP system look for large vendors of software suites that will be ready to integrate with the CRM system that you already have in place.
Read Also: CRM and ERP: What’s The Difference?

Still, you can't find whether CRM or ERP?

Don't worry still there are solutions for you. Below are steps that can guide you:

• Check out on various vendors' buyers' guides for more information on the two systems.
• Narrow down your options and get free price quotes for the two systems
• Call software experts to provide you with more details.

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