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Dispelling the myths: Five reasons you should consider web based CRM software
Myth #1: Web-based CRM is not secure
One of the greatest myths about web-based CRM-and about all cloud computing based applications in general-is that security will be a problem. In fact, this is seldom an issue, and security is often more rigorously enforced with a hosted solution. In-house CRM can be inconsistent as for as enforcement of security, especially for organizations lacking a formal IT security manager. Web-based systems, on the other hand, will usually include built-in security protocols that are uniformly enforced by the third party hosting company. And consider this: with the growing popularity of web-based CRM software, more CRM vendors are trying to perfect it. Very soon, security issues associated with web-based CRM will be near obsolete.
Myth #2: Web-based CRM is unreliable
Reliability is often guaranteed by the provider with a written service level agreement (SLA). The SLA can vary between providers, so take time to examine the document before signing on with a hosted service. The reliability factor however, is usually excellent, and in fact hosted companies are better equipped to provide better uptime guarantees than are possible with many in-house implementations. Look for a hosting company that has a redundant architecture and power backup in their data center.
Myth #3: You lose control with web-based CRM
A common perception of all cloud-based applications is that deploying them results in a loss of overall control. In fact, control is maintained-what is lost is the ability to actually put one’s hands directly on the hardware on which the application is hosted. That however, is no big loss, and represents a major opportunity to redirect internal staff to more pressing tasks-and eliminate a large capital expenditure that would otherwise be necessary.
Myth #4: Web-based CRM will be isolated from other customer-facing applications
It would seem to the uninitiated that isolation might be a problem, since the CRM application is hosted off-site. However, integration remains a possibility, and is often just as easy as it would be for an on-premise application. In a case where a high degree of integration is required, a hybrid deployment may be in order that combines a hosted system with some on-premise modules.
Myth #5: Web-based CRM is only for very small companies
Because cloud computing began with consumer-driven demand, there is a perception that it is used mainly for individual consumers and very small companies-i.e., those in serious need of an affordable software solution. But many large enterprises are taking advantage of web-based CRM, especially if they have a large and distributed sales force. As we mentioned before, web-based CRM is becoming more enterprise-friendly every day.
So now that you know the truth, check out the vendors!
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