No software works in a vacuum, most minor of all the Customer Relationship Management tools. It requires all data related to the business and its operations to be able to provide valuable insights. The system seamlessly links to other software, and it uses all the information at its disposal to achieve high customer satisfaction and business productivity rate. However, you need to plan the CRM integration process for it to be successful. There should be points of connection without affecting the existing workflows.
The Importance of CRM Integration
CRM integration can turn any business around, and it connects all the different processes in a way that streamlines operations. Connecting the tool with other software your employees will make things a lot more convenient for them. They will be able to automate specific processes, and the system will be fed high-quality data. Integration improves the business’ decision-making skills and makes them able to work towards a unified strategy. A CRM software consultant can handle the different types of integration based on the size and niche of your business.
CRM Integration for Different Processes
Before beginning the CRM integration journey, you have to figure out which systems you want to include. The data from every environment is unique, but some of the most common processes incorporated into systems are listed below.
An email is an essential tool for staying connected with customers and clients. It also contains an abundance of customer data which can come in handy for marketing purposes. An email campaign backed by CRM software can help tailor the content according to the type of customer. You can target prospective leads and get feedback from existing customers using automated processes. Through email integration, businesses can continue to improve their marketing strategy and target a higher ROI without any threat to the brand image.
Calendar
The digital calendar is now used for scheduling, and it is an expendable tool for the sales team. The CRM software consultant can help you integrate the calendar to have all your appointments and reminders in one place. Some third-party tools and services are compatible with many software. The sales team can view activities scheduled by other departments as well and avoid clashing. The software sends alerts to the staff and the automated tool, so everything is done on time.
Social Media
Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn are valuable tools for modern business because this is where customers interact the most. If they are not considered part of the CRM integration campaign, businesses might lose ample opportunities. Since customers prefer communicating over social media, it is the best place to get their honest feedback. Smaller businesses can also benefit from the global audience on such platforms.
Customer Support
The CRM software contains all customer profiles, and customer support centers could benefit from that knowledge when helping solve issues. Both departments working together could help resolve problems much faster and demonstrate to the customers their value. It can also empower businesses to provide self-service options and personalize their experiences with the products. Service calls can turn into sales call if the agent has reliable information in their hands.
Marketing Automation
CRM can target both sales and marketing departments because they are interconnected. Both departments will have access to the information, so it cuts their lead generation time in half. Customer feedback will also help marketing teams work on improving their campaigns. When teams can see the big picture and collaborate, they can pull off some ambitious ideas.
Challenges Associated with CRM Integration
Integrating software with a CRM tool is not easy, but now some options come ready for interconnectivity. You can get started as soon as you buy the software. However, there are challenges associated with such software too. It might not support the API you are using or require a different database. In situations like these, you can benefit from a CRM software consultant.
The consultant can export all your data to a particular location to be used universally across the organization. It is tricky because teams are used to doing things a particular way, but with the right help, it is entirely doable. CRM integration is not only a technological reset, but it brings with it a change in behaviors and culture. When the work processes become faster and more efficient, it affects the employees positively using them too.
