In today’s business world, a customer relationship management (CRM) system is essential for organizing and managing interactions with customers and potential customers. While cloud-based CRM systems are becoming increasingly popular, there are still many businesses that prefer to use non-cloud-based CRM systems. This article will provide an overview of non-cloud-based CRM systems, the benefits of choosing this option, and the factors to consider when selecting a non-cloud-based CRM system.
Non-cloud-based CRM systems are typically installed on a company’s own servers and maintained by the company’s IT staff. This gives businesses more control over their data and security. Non-cloud-based CRM systems are often more customizable than cloud-based systems, allowing businesses to tailor the system to their specific needs. Additionally, non-cloud-based CRM systems are generally less expensive than cloud-based systems.
Of course, there are also some drawbacks to using a non-cloud-based CRM system. One potential drawback is that non-cloud-based CRM systems can be more difficult to manage and maintain. Additionally, non-cloud-based CRM systems may not be as accessible as cloud-based systems, which can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection.
When selecting a non-cloud-based CRM system, there are several factors to consider:
Overall, non-cloud-based CRM systems can be a good option for businesses that need more control over their data and security, that want a customizable solution, and that are willing to invest in the upfront costs of the system.
Non-Cloud Based CRM
On-Premise, Customizable, Controllable, Less Expensive, More Secure, Less Accessible
- On-Premise
- Customizable
- Controllable
- Less Expensive
- More Secure
- Less Accessible
Non-cloud based CRM systems offer businesses more control over their data and security, as well as the ability to customize the system to their specific needs. These systems are often less expensive than cloud-based systems, but they can be more difficult to manage and maintain.
On-Premise
On-premise CRM systems are installed and run on a company’s own servers, rather than being hosted in the cloud. This gives businesses more control over their data and security, as well as the ability to customize the system to their specific needs.
- Control Over Data and Security
With an on-premise CRM system, the business has complete control over its data, including where it is stored and who has access to it. This can be important for businesses that handle sensitive data or that are subject to strict data protection regulations.
- Customization
On-premise CRM systems can be customized to meet the specific needs of a business. This includes the ability to add custom fields, create custom reports, and integrate with other business systems.
- Cost
On-premise CRM systems can be less expensive than cloud-based systems, especially for businesses that have a large number of users or that need a high level of customization.
- IT Resources
On-premise CRM systems require a company to have the necessary IT resources to install, maintain, and manage the system. This can be a challenge for businesses that do not have a dedicated IT staff.
Overall, on-premise CRM systems offer businesses more control over their data and security, as well as the ability to customize the system to their specific needs. However, these systems can also be more expensive and difficult to manage than cloud-based systems.
Customizable
Non-cloud based CRM systems are highly customizable, allowing businesses to tailor the system to their specific needs. This includes the ability to:
- Add Custom Fields
Businesses can add custom fields to track data that is specific to their industry or business. For example, a manufacturing company might add a field to track product serial numbers, while a healthcare provider might add a field to track patient allergies.
- Create Custom Reports
Businesses can create custom reports to track key metrics and identify trends. This information can be used to improve sales performance, customer service, and other aspects of the business.
- Integrate with Other Business Systems
Non-cloud based CRM systems can be integrated with other business systems, such as accounting systems, ERP systems, and marketing automation systems. This allows businesses to share data between systems and streamline their business processes.
- Change the Look and Feel of the System
Businesses can change the look and feel of the CRM system to match their brand identity. This includes the ability to change the colors, fonts, and layout of the system.
The ability to customize a non-cloud based CRM system is a major advantage for businesses that have unique needs or that want to integrate the system with other business systems. However, customization can also be a challenge, as it requires businesses to have the necessary IT resources and expertise.
Controllable
Non-cloud based CRM systems give businesses more control over their data and the system itself. This includes the ability to:
- Control Access to Data
Businesses can control who has access to data in the CRM system. This includes the ability to set different levels of access for different users and to track who has accessed data and when.
- Manage Data Security
Businesses can implement security measures to protect data in the CRM system from unauthorized access, theft, and destruction. This includes the ability to encrypt data, set up firewalls, and implement intrusion detection systems.
- Make Changes to the System
Businesses can make changes to the CRM system as needed. This includes the ability to add new features, modify existing features, and remove features that are no longer needed.
- Choose Where Data is Stored
Businesses can choose where data is stored, either on-premises or in a colocation facility. This gives businesses more control over the physical security of their data.
The ability to control a non-cloud based CRM system is a major advantage for businesses that need to meet specific security or compliance requirements. However, this control also comes with the responsibility of managing and maintaining the system.
Less Expensive
Non-cloud based CRM systems can be less expensive than cloud-based systems, especially for businesses that have a large number of users or that need a high level of customization. There are several reasons for this:
No Subscription Fees
With a non-cloud based CRM system, businesses pay a one-time fee for the software license. There are no ongoing subscription fees, which can save businesses a significant amount of money over time.
Lower IT Costs
Non-cloud based CRM systems can be installed and run on a company’s existing IT infrastructure, which can save money on IT costs. Cloud-based CRM systems, on the other hand, require businesses to purchase additional IT resources, such as servers and storage.
Customization Costs
Non-cloud based CRM systems are typically more customizable than cloud-based systems. However, customization can also be more expensive. With a non-cloud based CRM system, businesses can choose to customize the system themselves or hire a consultant to do it for them. This gives businesses more control over the cost of customization.
Total Cost of Ownership
When considering the total cost of ownership (TCO), non-cloud based CRM systems can be less expensive than cloud-based systems over the long term. This is because businesses do not have to pay ongoing subscription fees and can avoid the costs of managing and maintaining a cloud-based system.
However, it is important to note that the upfront costs of a non-cloud based CRM system can be higher than the upfront costs of a cloud-based system. Businesses need to carefully consider their needs and budget when choosing between a non-cloud based and a cloud-based CRM system.
More Secure
Non-cloud based CRM systems can be more secure than cloud-based systems because businesses have more control over the security of their data and system. This includes the ability to:
- Control Access to Data
Businesses can control who has access to data in the CRM system. This includes the ability to set different levels of access for different users and to track who has accessed data and when.
- Manage Data Security
Businesses can implement security measures to protect data in the CRM system from unauthorized access, theft, and destruction. This includes the ability to encrypt data, set up firewalls, and implement intrusion detection systems.
- Choose Where Data is Stored
Businesses can choose where data is stored, either on-premises or in a colocation facility. This gives businesses more control over the physical security of their data.
- Avoid Third-Party Security Risks
With a non-cloud based CRM system, businesses do not have to rely on a third-party vendor to secure their data. This can reduce the risk of data breaches and other security incidents.
However, it is important to note that the security of a non-cloud based CRM system ultimately depends on the security measures that the business implements. Businesses need to take steps to ensure that their system is properly configured and that they have the necessary security resources and expertise.
Less Accessible
Non-cloud based CRM systems are less accessible than cloud-based systems because they cannot be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection. This can be a disadvantage for businesses that have employees who work remotely or who need to access data from different locations.
There are several reasons why non-cloud based CRM systems are less accessible:
Requires VPN Access
To access a non-cloud based CRM system remotely, users need to connect to the company’s VPN. This can be a hassle for users who are not familiar with VPNs or who have slow internet connections.
Limited Mobile Access
Non-cloud based CRM systems are typically not designed for mobile devices. This means that users cannot access the system from their smartphones or tablets unless they use a remote desktop application.
No Real-Time Collaboration
Non-cloud based CRM systems do not support real-time collaboration. This means that multiple users cannot access and edit data in the system at the same time. This can be a disadvantage for businesses that need to collaborate on sales opportunities or customer service issues.
Updates and Maintenance
Non-cloud based CRM systems require businesses to install updates and perform maintenance on the system. This can be a time-consuming and expensive process, especially for businesses that do not have a dedicated IT staff.
Despite these disadvantages, non-cloud based CRM systems can still be a good option for businesses that need more control over their data and security and that are willing to sacrifice some accessibility.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions about CRM software:
Question 1: What is CRM software?
Answer 1: CRM software, or customer relationship management software, is a tool that helps businesses manage their relationships with customers and potential customers. It can be used to track customer interactions, sales opportunities, and customer service issues.
Question 2: What are the benefits of using CRM software?
Answer 2: CRM software can help businesses improve their sales performance, customer service, and marketing efforts. It can also help businesses to better understand their customers and build stronger relationships with them.
Question 3: What are the different types of CRM software?
Answer 3: There are two main types of CRM software: cloud-based and on-premise. Cloud-based CRM software is hosted by a third-party vendor and accessed via the internet, while on-premise CRM software is installed on a company’s own servers.
Question 4: How do I choose the right CRM software for my business?
Answer 4: When choosing CRM software, businesses should consider their specific needs and budget. They should also consider the size of their business, the number of users, and the features that are important to them.
Question 5: How much does CRM software cost?
Answer 5: The cost of CRM software varies depending on the type of software, the number of users, and the features that are included. Cloud-based CRM software is typically priced on a per-user, per-month basis, while on-premise CRM software typically requires a one-time license fee.
Question 6: What are some best practices for using CRM software?
Answer 6: Some best practices for using CRM software include keeping data up-to-date, using the software to track all customer interactions, and using the software to generate reports and analyze data.
Question 7: What is the future of CRM software?
Answer 7: The future of CRM software is bright. CRM software is becoming increasingly sophisticated and affordable, and it is becoming more integrated with other business systems. This is making CRM software more valuable than ever for businesses of all sizes.
These are just a few of the most frequently asked questions about CRM software. If you have any other questions, please contact a CRM software vendor or consultant.
Now that you know more about CRM software, you can start looking for a system that meets your specific needs. Be sure to consider the following tips when choosing a CRM software:
Tips
Here are a few tips for choosing and using CRM software:
Tip 1: Define Your Needs
Before you start shopping for CRM software, take some time to define your business needs. What are you hoping to achieve with CRM software? Do you need to track sales opportunities, manage customer service interactions, or both? Once you know your needs, you can start looking for software that meets those needs.
Tip 2: Do Your Research
There are many different CRM software vendors on the market, so it’s important to do your research before you make a purchase. Read reviews, compare features, and get demos from different vendors. This will help you find the best software for your business.
Tip 3: Get Buy-In from Your Team
CRM software is only effective if your team uses it. Get buy-in from your team early on by involving them in the selection process and by providing them with training and support. Make sure that everyone understands the benefits of using CRM software and how it can help them to be more productive.
Tip 4: Keep Your Data Clean
CRM software is only as good as the data that you put into it. Make sure that you keep your data clean and up-to-date. This means regularly removing duplicate records, correcting errors, and updating outdated information. Clean data will help you to get accurate reports and insights from your CRM software.
By following these tips, you can choose and use CRM software to improve your business relationships and boost your bottom line.
CRM software is a powerful tool that can help businesses of all sizes to improve their customer relationships and grow their business. By following these tips, you can choose and use CRM software to achieve your business goals.
Conclusion
CRM software is a valuable tool for businesses of all sizes. It can help businesses to manage their customer relationships, track sales opportunities, and provide better customer service. By implementing a CRM system, businesses can improve their efficiency, productivity, and profitability.
When choosing CRM software, businesses should consider their specific needs and budget. There are many different CRM software vendors on the market, so it is important to do your research and choose the software that is right for your business.
CRM software is an investment, but it is an investment that can pay off in the long run. By using CRM software, businesses can improve their customer relationships, grow their sales, and increase their profits.
If you are not already using CRM software, I encourage you to consider implementing a system in your business. CRM software can help you to take your business to the next level.