If you are currently looking to invest in CRM software, it’s obvious that you are checking out product features as well as CRM demo from various brands. Chances are you have come across many features that are more or less the same in the products. But, still there are some products on the market which offer a better bet than their counterparts. It could be anything-starting with the price to the features of the product. It’s important that you get a complete understanding during the demo session. For instance, over 91% of businesses with 11 or more employees use CRM software, and companies that adopt CRM systems can see a 25% increase in productivity.
Here’s a look at those 11 questions that you must ask during a CRM demo session.
This is quite a product specific answer because every product is different in terms of features. But, during the demo session you must get the answer because that’s going to be a parameter to make a decision. You can start however by asking for an overview of the product’s core features. This will give you a clear understanding of a CRM product’s core capabilities. For example, in the demo session of ConvergeHub, we try to highlight the core features of our product that make it an all-in-one product that caters to marketing, sales, service and billing – all at the same time. Finally, do not forget to ask about features like contact management, lead tracking, sales forecasting, automation, reporting, and any unique features the CRM offers. Every CRM tool has its own USP and you get to know about it during the CRM demo session.
Well, customization is one of the most fundamental considerations when you plan to invest in CRM software. The good news is most of the CRM products are customizable to a certain extent. But you need to properly understand during the CRM demo whether the product’s customization capabilities can effortlessly cater to the unique processes and workflows of your business. After all, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to CRM products. Neither all products are equally customizable. There’s no point in believing that a particular product that has worked great for your competitor will work for you with the same competence. So, get to know about the customization capabilities of the product. As for ConvergeHub, it is extremely customizable and can be tailored to your specific needs. Take advantage of crucial features like custom fields, layouts, and automation workflows to make it adapt to your business processes.
With a user-friendly interface, it’s always great to do work. Also, it helps with the quick and hassle-free adoption of the product. During the CRM demo session, learn this and get an understanding thoroughly. Check out if the product is intuitive and easily navigable. Consider whether the layout aligns with your team’s needs and preferences. After all, a user-friendly interface helps you get the hold easily without much hassle.
Make sure that you choose a product that comes with smart integration features. Chances are, your organization already uses other software tools for various business processes. So, once you know the integration capabilities of your business, you will know whether the existing system in your organization will go with it. During the CRM demo session, find out if the product you are choosing can smartly connect with tools for emailing, marketing automation platforms, and e-commerce systems. Seamless integration results in streamlined processes and enhanced productivity.
Automation can save time and reduce the number of manual activities. While most of the CRM products these days come with automation features, you need to know about them in detail. Because that’s what helps you figure out if it is really important for your business. Keep in mind that SMBs like you invest in CRM software to automate crucial tasks. If the product does not serve your business needs, don’t opt for the same. Inquire about the automation aspects of CRM during the CRM demo. However, if you choose the all-in-one CRM ConvergeHub, you can leverage the benefits of lead scoring, workflow automation, and automated email marketing. It helps streamline tasks that were otherwise impossible if there were no automation features. After all, it is always important to know about these automation features before you invest in a product.
Who does not know that reporting and analytics features in your CRM software help you keep a tab on your business? And, if a CRM product does not have those crucial features, it’s better not to opt for this product. Your CRM product must be capable of fetching raw data and getting details from every department, so that you can make an informed decision. During the CRM demo session, make sure that you perfectly inquire about CRM’s reporting and analytics capabilities. Your CRM should be capable of providing reports in various formats. Ask about the types of reports available, customization options, and whether the CRM can visualize data in a meaningful way. ConvergeHub, being all-in-one CRM software offers all these reporting facilities along with detailed performance analytics of sales and marketing campaigns.
Keep in mind that a CRM is only effective when your team knows how to use it. And nobody knows the product better than the brains behind it. So, when you opt for a CRM product, it is extremely important that you get post-implementation training from the developers. During the CRM demo, ask the provider whether they will provide thorough training to help your team get started. Also, unique if there will be appropriate post-implementation support and the support resources of the CRM provider. Make sure that you get complete details regarding onboarding, training materials, and ongoing customer support options.
Your business is likely to grow, there’s no doubt about it. So, it’s crucial that your CRM product also grows with it in the most hassle-free manner. When you choose a CRM product that can easily scale with your business, it becomes easier for you to streamline things in the future. It’s always recommended to ask about the CRM’s scalability, and if it’s flexible enough to effortlessly accommodate increased data volume, users, and additional features as your organization expands.
Data security is paramount and we are in no place to ignore the same. Whichever product you are opting for, make sure it comes with security measures, such as data encryption, user access Controls, and compliance with relevant regulations (e.g., GDPR) and others accredited by the Federal government. Get to know the provider during the CRM demo about the security features and how data will be protected.
No matter how reputed the CRM provider is, ask them to provide you with real-world use cases or case studies. There’s no match for case studies when it comes to evaluating the reputation of the firm. Look for case studies or use cases that are from businesses similar to yours. Check out how the provider’s CRM product has helped the business reach their goal. This can give you insights into how CRM can address specific challenges and deliver value.
Budgeting requires an understanding of the entire cost of ownership. Ask about any ongoing membership fees, customisation expenses, and potential additional payments for features or user licenses in addition to the upfront price.
Choosing the appropriate CRM might be a game changer for the success of your company. These days, technology helps a lot in realizing your business goals. With the implementation of CRM software, you can streamline several segments of your business, starting from sales, marketing service, billing and a lot more. However, it’s important that you get a good product and acquire a full grasp of the system’s capabilities, customization possibilities, ease of use, and more to make sure that it is an overall fit for your organization. Ask these 11 key questions during a CRM demo. Remember that a CRM is a long-term investment, therefore gathering all relevant information is critical for making an informed decision that corresponds with your business goals.
Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems have become one of the most crucial business process management tools for firms wishing to efficiently manage and nurture their customer connections. Choosing the correct CRM is a key decision that can affect the efficiency, customer satisfaction, and overall growth of your organization. Attending a CRM demo is an important step in the decision-making process. It’s recommended that you get all the information well in advance to make an informed decision.
