According to the analytical agency TAdviser, 9 out of 10 companies choose cloud CRM. This system works on any device via the Internet - no need to install it on a computer in the office and hire a programmer for that. Evgeny Tsygulev, CEO of S2, tells more about what a cloud CRM system is and what its pros and cons are. And if you want to simplify your bussiness you may need best moving company software.
Cloud CRM-system: what is it
- A cloud CRM system, or "cloud", is a service for managing business processes, which the client has access to over the Internet. It doesn't need to be installed - it's enough to connect to the network and log in to the program. In this case, the software is not located on a company's server but on the developer's server. The developer takes full responsibility for its maintenance, ensures data storage security, and helps with configuration.
Advantages and disadvantages of cloud CRM
To get a better idea of what a cloud CRM, consider what it has pros and cons by criteria: the number of features, cost, ability to integrate with other services, data security, technical support and updates.
Functionality
Pros. Cloud CRM has a very diverse and rich functionality: sales funnel management, task management, client base storage, analytics, document designer, telephony, integration with email, website and social networks. The number of features depends on the selected tariff. If some options are missing, you can always order updates and they will be added.
The window of transaction management in S2 CRM looks like this: all steps and necessary details are indicated consistently.
Cons. In most cloud CRM it is impossible to remove unnecessary options if they overload the interface. For example, when the CRM is only needed to manage sales and transactions, and it comes with a set of social network for employees, a task scheduler and other functions to monitor the implementation of projects, you have to pay for unnecessary functions.
Price
Pros. Cloud CRM systems are paid monthly. The price depends on the chosen tariff and term. Some companies make a discount if the client pays at once for six months or a year of use.
One of the advantages of "the cloud" is the availability of a free tariff. The functions in this tariff are limited, but they are enough to evaluate the system and understand how it suits you. If something doesn't suit you - you can drop it and try another product.
And to maintain a cloud CRM no need to buy or rent a server - it can work in the office or remotely.
Cons. You have to pay every month, not once and for all, as with boxed CRM. To increase the number of functions or connect more users, you must choose another tariff and pay extra.
You can't use cloud CRM without the Internet.
Integrations
Pros. CRM can be integrated with the website, social networks, email and SMS-mailing services, telephony, 1C products and other business services.
Cons. Some CRM integrations are not enough. For example, there is no integration with the necessary social networks, 1C products, services for warehouse management or finances. In this case you either have to put up with it, or pay extra money to add the possibility of integration separately.
This is what integration with the site looks like in S2 CRM. Requests from the site automatically get into the program, then the system creates the deal itself and tasks the manager with processing the request.
Security and support
Pros. The developer of the CRM-system is responsible for security. All data is automatically stored on the company's server. Therefore, if the lights or internet are suddenly switched off, they will not be lost.
If problems arise, you can always contact technical support and not to invite an IT-specialist separately. Technical support in the CRM works around the clock or by working hours.
Cons. Due to the fact that all client data is located on the CRM developer's server, you can only hope that all passwords are reliably encrypted and that data and files are backed up regularly.
Not all CRM tech support quickly responds to questions and problems of users. Sometimes you have to wait up to three days for an answer. The cheapest rates may not have tech support at all - instead there will be a chatbot or free access to the knowledge base with instructions
Updates and refinements
Pros. All updates are installed automatically and are included in the monthly fee. There is no need to contact developers, invite a specialist and pay extra. Specific updates can be ordered at the stage of implementation for an additional fee.
Cons. Not all of the CRM can be updated with third-party developers. Therefore, you often have to wait for updates, and not the fact that it will hit the bullseye. Sometimes developers not only add new functionality, but also remove old, so your own improvements may disappear.
Conclusions
A cloud-based CRM system is a business process management program that is available online. You don't need to download and install it - just open a browser, go to your personal account, and start working.
The cloud has many functions, with integrations with other services, social networks, and telephony. The developers ensure data security and promptly help to solve problems.
You have to pay for cloud CRM every month according to the tariff set. If any functions are missing, you can always order updates. Or you can wait for automatic updates. This is a convenient option for those who want to quickly master the service and start working in it immediately.