What is a CRM system?

A CRM system is a centralized platform on which companies can store data about existing and potential customers, track interactions with them, and share this information with colleagues. This allows companies to grow by managing customer relationships in the most efficient way.

CRM offers a wide range of business benefits. Some businesses use CRM to track their leads, while others invest in CRM to increase sales, and some can use CRM to automate marketing and track the entire customer-brand journey within the system. Businesses have begun to realize the importance of CRM and are increasingly implementing it as a driver of company success. However, successful CRM implementation remains a major and challenging task for businesses. Many CRMs fail due to common mistakes that businesses make when implementing a CRM solution.

What are the 10 most common mistakes when implementing a CRM system?

Based on the experience of implementing CRM at Fanetech, we have identified the main 10 errors that our clients most often encounter when trying to implement the system themselves.

Mistake 1 – Lack of planning:
When implementing CRM, companies must plan and develop work stages in advance. Companies must clearly define their goals and objectives and analyze how they can be achieved by implementing a CRM system. Without a proper plan, CRM will become a problem maker rather than a solution. 

Mistake 2 – lack of team participation:
Implementing a CRM system requires the entire team to work together. Team participation and coordination is very important as the CRM will become a centralized data repository for different teams in the organization. Lack of stakeholder engagement will result in the system not being a productive tool.

Mistake 3 – The desire to implement maximum functionality right away

Always start by gradually adding the required capabilities, think about the purpose of using the CRM and how you are going to use it for the business process. Before implementation, be sure to consult with an IT solution provider such as Fanetech. We will help you plan your CRM integration scenario.

Error 4 - Errors during data transfer:
Data quality is central and plays an important role in CRM implementation. Any errors in data can lead to problems in day-to-day operations and workflows and thus negatively impact your business. When transferring data to a CRM system, you must ensure that the correct format is followed and data checks are performed.

Error 5 – Insufficient staff training:
It takes time to place and train employees to get them comfortable with the software. Users must receive proper training to effectively use and benefit from the software. Inadequate training can defeat the very purpose of a CRM system.

Error 6 - Ignoring mobile access:
Given our modern lifestyle, people often work on the go. Moreover, smartphones are now increasingly being used to solve a wide range of work issues. Always consider a CRM with mobile capabilities.

Error 7 - Selecting an incompatible system:
As your business grows, you will need to use more sales and marketing automation tools. The smaller the potential range of seamless integrations your CRM has, the more efficient your workflow will be. Therefore, you need to plan ahead for the future integrations you are going to invest in.

Error 8 – No scalability:
As your business grows, CRM should also evolve. Make sure you use a CRM that can adapt and expand to meet changing needs and requirements. The CRM you implement now will be the central platform for sales, marketing, and customer service to collaborate and build your business better.

Mistake 9 - Failing to Track KPIs:
Every team should implement CRM to achieve measurable results. Define each team's goals and key performance indicators, and draw a diagram of how you will measure the key performance indicators using CRM software. It is very important to evaluate progress and make necessary adjustments.

Error 10 - Database duplication:
Always be careful with the data you enter into your CRM. Duplication can negate the benefits of a CRM, and the information you get from a CRM will not be reliable. Therefore, if you import data from other sources into your CRM software, make sure you perform deduplication as part of the implementation process.

Still have questions?

If you are thinking about implementing CRM into your IT infrastructure, Contact us. We at Fanetech help companies integrate efficient and scalable IT solutions to meet business requirements.