Is Web-Based CRM The Right Move For You?

 In this world of remote employees, sometimes software that sits on a single computer is not the best option.  Salespeople, often working from their homes, may need to access information about prospects or customers from a remote location.  In a nutshell, that is the beauty of web-based CRM, also known as a hosted CRM solution. 

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 Hosted CRM Software has become more and more popular over the past few years as companies look to outsource IT functions to focus on the primary purpose of their business.  No longer does a company feel like integrating a piece of software into their network and have to deal with the hassles of updating it and fixing the bugs that may come up periodically.  That is why Web Based CRM is the perfect solution for companies looking to rid themselves of dealing with software issues, server issues, and installation problems.  In essence, it's an expense that companies are willing to live with to take some responsibility off their in-house IT help.

 From a salesperson's perspective, it's a beautiful thing.  Whether they are on vacation and need to make a quick call to a client, at home because of bad weather, or if they work remotely permanently, it can make for a truly virtual office.  Salespeople can access their client information and notes from anywhere with a web connection, and pick up just like they are back in the office.  Many salespeople who work out of an office, have found themselves making their cold-calls from home, so they don't have to do it in the bullpen at the office.  This is great from a sales managers perspective because let's face it, all they want is to make sure the calls get made!

 So, when is this the right solution for your business? Well, hosted CRM is used by sole operators and large companies alike.  Large companies are outsourcing IT departments, so it makes sense for them.  Many times, small companies can pay on a per-user basis which keeps the cost down.  So really, it's not a big or small company solution.  Some of the more popular web-based CRM solutions include Salesforce, Siebel OnDemand, or Salesboom.  In addition to that, popular CRM programs like ACT can also be purchased and then hosted by hosting companies that specialise in CRM Hosting. 

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