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Web 2.0 innovations and social networking have changed the nature of customer relationship management, by adding an informal element to the equation. Tools such as blogs and social networking sites give companies valuable feedback and insight into customer attitudes, and also promote the free exchange of information and ideas.

Customer relationship management goes beyond simple software, and it is important to get a good understanding of what it really does. Four of the most important things to know is that CRM is a management initiative, not an IT initiative. It is all about data sharing, and interdepartmental cooperation is essential for a successful CRM program. Also, when a customer calls, it is important for one individual to take charge of that call, rather than allowing the customer to find their way through multiple departments. And lastly, CRM technology can be used to help the customer help themselves.

Selecting a CRM product involves several decisions. One major decision is whether to use a web-based CRM system, and once that is decided, other factors such as ease of use, flexibility, and the availability of a free trial.

Businesses are turning to social customer relationship management (CRM) solutions to drive their success. Social CRM tools provide customers with a space to offer constructive feedback for companies’ that are interested in improving their product.

In a fiercely competitive environment, your company needs to deliver outstanding customer service in order to stand out. The best way to optimize customer service is by using small business CRM software. Small business CRM software is designed with your small-scale operational needs in mind. Small businesses face a number of unique challenges and small business CRM software focuses on eliminating them.

Social media has come to be more than just a tool to socialize; it can be used to the advantage of businesses in their CRM initiatives. Strategic use of social media gives a company access to a wide audience, and the ability to spread the word quickly about their brand; in addition, it allows companies to keep their finger on the pulse of what people really think about their offerings.

Adding mobile tools to your CRM solution is extremely useful. Mobile CRM gives your staff the ability to gain access to up-to-the-minute customer information from any location. Additionally, it gives the back office access to field information in real time.

The retail industry is highly competitive. It is important for retailers to use CRM tools to stay on top of their game. Consumers have become increasingly skeptical about where they are spending their money.  CRM software can be a useful tool for providing customers with useful information, in exchange for understanding customer needs and preferences.

Selecting a CRM solution is not an easy task, considering the overabundance of products available in the CRM market. To help you through your selection process, we’ve listed six criteria to keep in mind. You can further narrow down your list by submitting RFP’s to obtain more precise product information, so you can make the best possible decision. 

Employee morale is an important issue for businesses to concern themselves with. In our current job market, low morale among technology personnel is commonplace due to factors like: a drop in profits, cancelled projects and layoffs. It is crucial to keep employee morale high because a lack of enthusiasm can negatively impact business and profitability. Effective use of a CRM system can help boost employee morale and productivity.

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