There are numerous arguments for adopting a cloud-based CRM and migrating to the cloud is becoming almost inevitable. Here's how to successfully manage the transition.
The fact is: Many companies are still far from a cloud-only CRM scenario. However, most are well aware of the following issues with their legacy systems:
- CRM usage is limited due to its cumbersome manual maintenance and lack of accessibility regardless of time or location.
- Negative user experiences lead to incorrect or duplicate data entries, which result in inaccurate analyses.
- Operating costs increase due to complex maintenance needs and the challenges of scaling.
- There's no comprehensive view of customers, their activities, and their potential.
So why doesn't everyone simply migrate to the cloud? Because there are challenges involved in the transformation. First and foremost: CRM is a critical tool for businesses, holding sensitive data. Large organizations often face the issue of migrating vast amounts of data.
Four Steps to Transformation
The good news is that with the right approach, all of these concerns can be addressed. The following steps are essential in the transformation process:
- Process Analysis of Legacy CRM Processes
- Analysis of Transformation-Relevant Information
- Start with a Start-Up Tenant
- Create a Backlog
By analyzing current workflows, you can decide which functions are still necessary in the cloud and conduct a Fit-to-Standard analysis. This will allow you to prioritize your transformation efforts in the backlog according to importance.
Five Reasons to Choose a Cloud CRM
When transforming your CRM, there are enormous advantages to be gained, not only in terms of data management and usability. Keep the following goals in mind:
- Enhanced Performance: A cloud CRM offers better system performance, easy scalability, and greater customization capabilities.
- Increased Efficiency and Productivity: High automation potential reduces administrative work and increases overall productivity.
- Unified System Architecture: Integration with other solutions from service, e-commerce, and marketing creates a cohesive system architecture.
- Personalized Real-Time Experiences: End-to-end processes and the elimination of data silos enable personalized customer experiences.
- Access to Customer Information Anytime, Anywhere: Mobile access allows flexible and location-independent insights into customer data.
Even with large and complex legacy CRMs, transitioning to the cloud is not rocket science. The best approach is to get started today and unlock the potential of transparent, company-wide customer data.