Customer Relationship Management (CRM)

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: 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: Investing in a customer relationship management (CRM) system can increase sales productivity and represent an addition to, not a subtraction from, your company’s bottom line. But a return on investment (ROI) from CRM software depends on whether you’ve identified strategies that leverage the CRM system’s sales productivity. Find out how to formulate CRM strategies before you choose a CRM solution, and compare CRM products.

Abstract: Since the last recession in 2001, customer relationship management (CRM) systems have gained greater acceptance. Though CRM systems haven’t been widely tested under adverse business conditions, results achieved by CRM strategies indicate that businesses with an effective CRM approach will have a vital competitive advantage in recessionary conditions. Discover three key strategies to using CRM as a tool against a recession.

Abstract: Customer relationship management (CRM) solutions can help you achieve success by managing your company’s customer-facing processes and implementing a customer-centric vision. But to make the most of CRM’s benefits, you should weigh and consider the options by answering key questions about your processes and CRM solutions’ capabilities. Find out key CRM principles, and how to best mitigate the cost of CRM implementation.

Abstract: Why do some customer relationship management (CRM) implementations fail? The answer: companies’ lack of understanding of their current CRM environments, and of what areas need modification or improvement. Companies with a clear understanding of what they need from a CRM solution—as well as of what CRM means to their business—are more likely to succeed. To clinch that success, some key elements should be assessed first.

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.

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: Enterprise resource planning (ERP) and customer relationship management (CRM) vendor Consona is determined to establish a CRM “kingdom” based on Consona Enterprise CRM. Read this comprehensive analysis of Consona Enterprise CRM to find out what lies ahead for this flagship product.

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: While marketing automation modules have begun to attract a new wave of companies to customer relationship management (CRM) software, CRM’s long-term benefits can help businesses make the most effective use of advertising and sales resources. According to leading industry experts, companies can leverage CRM applications in five specific ways. For one, CRM systems help you identify where to place ad dollars. Find out more.

Abstract: Many companies approach customer relationship management (CRM) software as an opportunity to save money via automation. While most CRM solutions offer powerful infrastructure benefits, approaching your new CRM tool with a focus on customer loyalty can earn you more repeat business. Learn about six ways your CRM solution can help your service agents personalize customer service—and maintain customer loyalty.

Abstract: Effective CRM deployment can bring many productivity gains. And although free customer relationship management (CRM) tools may sound great to overburdened company directors, there are five reasons why free CRM tools should be avoided. For one, free isn’t always free, as hidden costs can undermine your budget. Find out about the other reasons why it’s better to tighten your CRM budget now, rather than go bust later.

Abstract: Customer relationship management (CRM) is being adopted by businesses worldwide. But the key question for many executives as they create their CRM strategy: how can they gain strategic advantage if their competitors are implementing these same CRM systems? The answer: through integration. Find out how leveraging your existing information assets can turn CRM from a tactical project into a key strategic initiative.

Abstract: How can you get the most out of a customer relationship management (CRM) solution while reducing operating costs and increasing overall profitability? By purchasing a hosted CRM solution that’ll provide the benefits of an on-premise CRM solution without the need for a complex implementation or the assistance of an in-house IT team. Hosted CRM is a cost-effective solution that promises a quick return on investment (ROI).

Abstract: When considering a customer relationship management (CRM) solution, it’s critical to understand the needs of your sales team. All too often, CRM applications have too much depth and complexity—and as a result, they fall into disuse. Some features may actually increase the effort of your sales people to close a sale. However, you can implement a CRM implementation that fits the needs of your sales team. Find out how.

Abstract: What does customer relationship management (CRM) mean to you? What is its value? Thousands of companies have ventured down the CRM path—many successfully, and others not. The reason may lie in the fact that CRM is sometimes viewed incorrectly, or may in fact be misunderstood. We provide some insights about the value of CRM in defining customers, increasing customer loyalty, and increasing your profits.

Abstract: Since there are multiple vendors offering hosted customer relationship management (CRM) applications, the buyer’s toughest decision is finding a vendor that offers the many benefits that come from a workflow engine similar to those used in multimillion-dollar CRM deployments. Truth be told, CRM alone is not enough, as not all providers have a workflow engine which enables full process automation.

Abstract: There are many articles on customer relationship management (CRM) and its benefits. These articles are usually targeted towards large organizations, and don’t focus on the needs and objectives of small business owners. However, it’s essential for small business owners to know what CRM really is, and why and how CRM can help retain existing customers and help their business grow.