Customer Relationship Management

Abstract: Today's usage of Decision Support Systems (DSS), combined with vetted CRM knowledge bases, allows organizations to save time and money, achieving better and more reliable/fully-documented decisions, a quantum improvement over the widely-used subjective process of selecting complex enterprise software...

Abstract: The business case for integrating call center service resolution management into customer relationship management is becoming increasingly obvious, as companies need to rely more on inbound (customer-generated) calls than on outbound telemarketing efforts.

Abstract: Customer relationship management (CRM) systems are becoming the centerpieces of broader customer-centric strategies to manage and coordinate information flow throughout a company. Users are increasingly using CRM to manage all phases of the business process, including sales force management. Discover nine strategies for using CRM software so you can make better use of sales metrics—for better sales management.

Abstract: Customer relationship management (CRM) is rapidly morphing from a customer management model to one of customer engagement. Social networks, podcasts, blogs, and wikis are enabling customers to become advocates, and not simply the targets they were in the traditional CRM process. The same techniques are also being used within the CRM industry itself to create a content-rich, social media environment for CRM professionals. Find out what these sweeping changes mean to businesses and CRM professionals alike, as TEC's director of research Wayne Thompson sits down with Paul Greenberg and Bruce Culbert of BPT Partners, a leading CRM consulting firm.

Abstract: Despite technological advances, users are dissatisfied with customer relationship management (CRM) systems. Ambiguous terms do not provide the vocabulary for concrete action and measurable expectations. Thus, CRM is perceived to be about intangibles, and is approached with a let's-hope–for-the-best mentality.

Abstract: Customer relationship management (CRM) can be a tool for positive change in businesses' operations. Or CRM can—unintentionally—cause a host of problems, from lost employee time to lost customer data. But with the right information, implementing CRM allows evolution without the upset of revolution.

Abstract: An alarming number of companies get on the wrong track when creating a customer relationship management (CRM) vision. Outlined here are four steps that take the mystery out of what makes an effective CRM vision. The secret? It’s all about people and relationships.

Abstract: Surado Solutions aims to provide a complete customer relationship management suite. We'll analyze Surado CRM 5.0 from the perspectives of core functionality, its distinguishing factors, and the challenges users may face when considering the Surado solution.

Abstract: No company today can afford to ignore the value of its customers' natural social networking behavior. The advantages that these social networks can bring to a company's customer relationship management platform are powerful tools that can ultimately improve its products.

Abstract: Many organizations find it challenging to adopt sales force automation and customer relationship management solutions. Formal sales training and the related reinforcement tools can make the difference. We examine the key challenges and propose some solutions.

Abstract: The customer relationship management (CRM) market is changing. Over half the market is served by small vendors. Fully integrated business suites like NetSuite standalone solutions like salesforce.com, are heeding the demand for software as a service, but they are approaching the market with very different market strategies.

Abstract: Customer relationship management (CRM) functionality can fall into four categories: core functionality; non-core functionality; vertical, industry-specific features; and accounting-related features. When evaluating and selecting a CRM solution, enterprises must be aware of the potential issues associated with functions and features that are not part of core CRM functionality.

Abstract: Customer relationship management (CRM) strategies—whether new to a company or already installed—can make some critical differences that help a company survive economic setbacks. Though you might be tempted to put off a software installation project due to tight economic conditions, you should include a CRM strategy as an important component of your plan to return to—or maintain—economic health. Find out why.

Abstract: In order to stay competitive, growing organizations need technology that allows them to react quickly to changing industry. According to recent polls, nearly 40 percent of midsized businesses are getting that technology through customer relationship management (CRM). With a rapidly growing market of choices, it’s important to look within your company to assess its needs and goals—before you commit to a CRM solution.

Abstract: A customer relationship management (CRM) solution is now a standard business requirement. With origins as a system for sales teams, CRM has clearly evolved into a mandatory tool for providing benefit to the entire organization. However, methodology and training play instrumental roles in successful CRM implementations; if designed well, these critical components will ultimately ensure user buy-in and success.

Abstract: Just as back-office automation became critical for competitive success in the last half of the twentieth century, customer relationship management (CRM) is today’s imperative for success. However, the key to creating business value with CRM is remembering that business strategy and technology strategy are linked. Companies that believe they can implement CRM capabilities based on technology alone will fail.

Abstract: Customer relationship management (CRM) is more than a product—it’s a philosophy. That’s why, when it comes to CRM systems, it’s important to understand all the benefits of an integrated application before beginning the selection process. After all, just as a chain is only as strong as its weakest link, a CRM solution is only as good as its implementation.

Abstract: No longer are customers simply sideline participants. Organizations are empowering them with a wealth of knowledge to engage in more informed decision-making. A customer relationship management (CRM) solution that encompasses all aspects of your business gives customers unprecedented visibility into the actions that impact them. Ultimately, this leads to greater accountability within the organization, and greater satisfaction among customers.

Abstract: Before beginning your selection process for a customer relationship management (CRM) system, it’s important to understand all the benefits of an integrated CRM system. These 17 “rules of the road” for CRM were collected from executives, managers, employees and consultants and provide useful information when choosing a CRM system.