A Successful CRM Implementation Plan

Moving to a new CRM system needn’t be a daunting task or something to be feared.  We’ve all heard tales/rumours/horror stories about projects going wrong after implementing a new CRM system. But we’ve also heard stories of people eating just a couple of squares from a chocolate bar and putting the rest in the fridge for later. It does happen, but it’s rare and doesn’t have to be that way.

In reality, installing or updating your CRM system can, and should, be a seamless task. All you need to do is follow these guidelines and create a successful CRM Implementation plan.

CRM Implementation Plan: Meeting everyone’s needs

Decide from the start exactly what you need to get out of your CRM system and ensure everyone who will be using it is considered.

Key stakeholders must be involved when discussing what software you’re going to install so that all departments have their requirements met. This removes the: ‘This system doesn’t do what I need,’ followed by: ‘You didn’t tell us it needed to do that,’ dilemma.

The Dream Team

Involving the right people in the selection process will make sure you get the system that’s right for your business. These will typically be: –

• Someone to be responsible for the overall project. Ideally, choose a person who can also promote the benefits of the system, as they will encourage others to use it.
• Someone to project manage timelines, scope, and deliverables, and be the central contact.
• A representative from each of the departments that will be using the system – sales, customer service, marketing etc.
• Don’t assume your IT department will deal with the software, especially if it’s a new system. Instead, appoint a Salesforce administrator to oversee the system and train your team to use it.

Partnership

When your system goes live, consider employing a Salesforce partner. Well-versed in Salesforce best practices, they’ll have the skills required to guarantee a smooth implementation.

Combining their experience of working on CRM systems for a variety of businesses with their knowledge across all areas of the platform and the wide range of Salesforce products, they’ll enable you to get the most out of your software and make it work productively and efficiently for you. Leaving you free to eat the rest of that chocolate bar.

Find out more here or contact us for details.

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