A Beginners Guide to Cloud Based CRM

One of the keys to success as a business is building a lasting relationship with each customer.

Managing customer relations used to be a time-consuming process that resulted in a lot of missed opportunities. However, the latest advances in technology have made it much easier to work with clients. 

Customer relationship management (CRM) tools continue to grow in popularity with the help of cloud computing.

Cloud-based CRM solutions are perfect for businesses of any size, and it’s much less expensive than on-premise solutions.

In addition to this content, consider attending Industry Cloud Battleground on June 23 where top cloud providers explain how industry cloud solutions can help businesses accelerate.

What is Cloud-Based CRM Software?

Cloud-based CRM is a platform that streamlines marketing and sales to meet the needs of each customer better.

Cloud computing allows you to use this software from any location with access to the internet. 

All of this data is stored in the cloud, which maximizes efficiency and helps you stay organized.

 

Cloud-Based CRM Features

1) Customization

One of the main features of cloud-based CRM software is that you can customize it at any time to meet your needs best.

You can easily add or delete modules to boost productivity and ensure your system operates as quickly as possible.

Ultimately, this creates a more positive experience for your marketing team and makes everyone’s job much more manageable.

2) Simple to Use

Another feature of cloud-based CRM is that it’s simple for anyone to use. 

Employees can easily drag-and-drop data in a few seconds, making it much easier to complete job tasks.

The interactive dashboard streamlines customer management, as all of this information is easy to access.

3) Simple Integration

An added benefit of using cloud-based CRM software is that it can easily integrate with third-party applications.

This simple integration process greatly expands the functionality of cloud-based CRM software while also making it much more flexible.

You can easily streamline activities from one system to another by importing or exporting data.

Cloud technology also makes it simple to use APIs or SDKs. 

A cloud-based CRM platform also allows you to integrate existing phone systems, email marketing tools, social media channels, and much more.

4) Access to Customer Support

An often-overlooked advantage of using a cloud-based CRM platform is that you can reach out to customer support at any time.

These professionals will always walk you through any technical problems to keep downtime to a minimum.

Around the clock customer support creates a much less stressful work environment while boosting productivity for your employees.

5) Data Protection

Data protection is always a top priority due to the ever-evolving number of cyber attacks.

A data breach can ruin your reputation and make it impossible for you to regain your customers’ trust.

Cloud servers need SSL encryption while also following HIPAA regulations to ensure your customer’s information remains safe and secure.

Advantages of Using Cloud-Based CRM Software

1) Saves You Money

Saving money is a top concern for business owners. 

Cloud-based CRM software reduces the need for legacy software, as all of your information is stored in the cloud.

You will never have to buy additional infrastructure, which can save your business a lot of money over the long-term.

2) Easy Accessibility

Cloud-based CRM software can easily be accessed from any location with an internet connection. 

Ease of access is essential as more employees are working from home. 

All of the data is synced in real-time, making it easy for multiple employees to work together from different locations.

3) Streamlines Workflow

Another benefit of CRM software is that it streamlines workflow by acting as a centralized platform for all of your business needs.

The simple integration process allows you to add existing applications to ensure your data is available in one location.

Streamlining operations saves everyone a lot of time and allows your employees to work more efficiently.

4) Improves Decision Making

Finding ways to make well-informed decisions is essential to the success of any business.

Cloud-based CRM software generates reports in real-time to ensure your information is always accurate and up to date with the latest changes.

Data-driven decisions allow your company to operate more effectively and give you an edge over your competitors.

Employees can access cloud-based CRM software at any time, whether in the office, at home, or on a business trip.

 

Differences Between Cloud-Based CRM vs. On-Premise CRM

Understanding the differences between using cloud-based and on-premise CRM software is important before you make any decisions. Both of these platforms differ from each other in a variety of ways.

1) Pricing

You will only need to pay a monthly subscription plan for cloud-based CRM services. On the other hand, the cost of installing IT infrastructure and working with an in-house team makes on-premise CRM software a much more expensive option.

2) Integration Process

Integrating with third-party cloud applications is fairly quick and easy for cloud-based CRM software. The integration process for on-premise CRM software is a lot more time-consuming while also requiring additional IT assistance.

3) Mobility

One of the main benefits of cloud-based CRM software is that it allows your employees to work from nearly any location. However, on-premise CRM software is much more restrictive, as it restricts employees from working outside of the office.

4) Ease of Installation

The typical installation process for cloud-based CRM software often takes no more than a week, while it can take multiple months for on-premise CRM software. The timeframe will vary due to the size of the business, but the cloud is always a much faster option.

5) Licensing

Licensing isn’t required for cloud-based CRM software, which saves you a lot of time and money. On the other hand, you will need to purchase licensing for servers, client access, and much more if you plan on using an on-premise CRM solution.

Closing Thoughts

The market for cloud-based CRM is expected to grow rapidly and reach $31.5 billion by 2024.

The low cost of these services, easy accessibility, and reliability are a few of the top reasons why cloud-based CRM software is such a popular option for businesses small and large.

We welcome you to join the Industry Cloud Battleground on June 23 to learn how you can work with cloud providers to customize out-of-the-box offerings and create a vertical-specific solution that will launch you ahead of your competition.