A topic that comes up quite often in Business Business Business is what CRM or project tool should I use? And whilst that question is as long as piece of string, I thought I would share some tips with you all that I share in my workshops when we look at keeping track of things and using a CRM.
Simplicity and ease of integration: There’s no sense in investing in CRM technology if you can’t to use it.
If your CRM is too hard to use you WON’T use it and then your tracking and planning stops so it must be easy to use first and foremost,
Remote access: We all are mobile so a solution that can only be used in the office is really no solution at all.  Cloud based CRM’s such as Insightly are great for this, as they offer a web and mobile interface which means entering data on the go is a breeze. (and lets face it we are more likely to forget if we need to come back to the office)
Does it integrate with other tools: It is key that your CRM makes life easier so make sure it integrates with the tools you already use like Xero, Mailchimp etc. Intergation is a real time saver, and helps us automatically keep track of things so make a list of things you already use, that you would like to talk to your CRM.
Flexibility and customization: Every successful CRM solution is customized in some way. When you look for a system make sure that you can customize your tasks, workflow and contact management. With Accusation you can get the CRM to do some of the work and reminding for you.
Lead generation and follow-up tracking:  A CRM strong in lead generation and follow-through, both in automated customer communiqués and reminders to sales people, can quite literally save the day, with the right follow up tracking.
Reporting: A CRM is only as good as the data that goes in and the reports it can generate, so make sure that reporting is one of the features you look at when setting up your CRM
Some CRM’s and Project Mangers to Consider:
Insightly: Insightly would have to be my favourite CRM as it manages projects and contacts all in the one place. It is FREE to start out with and you can add people as you grow. It integrates with Xero and Quick Books, Google Apps and Social Media profiles to connect all the information in one place. http://insightly.com
Trello: A Trello board is a list of lists, filled with cards, used by you and your team. Trello has everything you need to organize projects of any size. http://trello.com
Zoho: Like Insightly Zoho offers a CRM and then you can add projects, campaigns and other features to it.  https://www.zoho.com/crm/
Happy CRM hunting. If you know of a good one or have any questions please feel free to share them in the comments.