The 5 biggest mistakes to avoid when implementing CRM (with a Zoho master!)

Beyond Free Trials: Choosing the Right CRM Software and Planning for the Future!  In this episode of Techcess, I'm joined by Zoho software expert Leigh Partin, from "Work Grow", who will talk us through how we can get our CRM systems nailed for business growth and success.  Psssst! Click this for your free 30 day trial of the Zoho One software, on Leigh!  Leigh's journey began when he left school at 16 without a clear direction. He attempted college but it didn't work out. At the age of 17, Leigh found himself working an IT job with the NHS before joining an IT outsource company called Bridge Partners. Within two years, Leigh was promoted to Managing Director and learned how to grow a £3 million business with 27 employees. He's now a consultant offering Zoho training to businesses who want to implement a streamlined CRM. What you'll learn from listening to this episode of Techcess The common mistakes made during CRM implementation The problems with lacking clear objectives Issues stemming from ignoring user needs and providing insufficient training The importance of scalability in business apps The consideration for long-term suitability The dangers of choosing systems based on outdated factors The importance of self-assessment and creating a shopping list How to plan for scalability and evolving needs CRM In the latest episode of the Techcess podcast, I, Mark Riddell am joined by Leigh Partin, a Zoho expert, and we chat about the world of CRM software, highlighting the five biggest mistakes businesses often make when implementing such systems. Our conversation starts with an exploration of Zoho, a brand known for its continuous product improvement. We talk about Zoho's extensive range of apps and particularly Zoho Mail, which Leigh suggests is a genuine alternative to Microsoft's popular email client offering! The evolution of software We talk about the evolving methodology for project execution, emphasising Leigh's recent experience with a workshop that involved too many participants. We discuss the need for clear objectives and engaging all stakeholders to avoid a few dominant voices overshadowing the conversation. Common mistakes made during implementation The episode also addresses common mistakes in CRM implementation. Ignoring user needs and providing inadequate training are just a couple of identified critical errors. We also chat through an exciting feature called "Blueprints" in Zoho's CRM, which helps reduce the need for extensive training while still requiring ongoing support.   Scalability Scalability emerges as a crucial factor in choosing business apps and platforms. It's necessary for the planning for future growth. So we're here to shed light on the misconception that software scalability is unlimited, using Microsoft's enterprise licensing as an example. The readiness of businesses to adapt their systems is analysed, and we're offering practical advice for selecting the right tools. The episode concludes with a discussion on the importance of building a system with scalability in mind and recognising the limitations of freemium tools.   Timestamped Summary: 00:00:21 Leigh’s 'origin story'. 00:05:10 Choose systems wisely by knowing your needs. 00:09:08 Dominant voices hinder effectiveness, narrow down team. Training essential for successful CRM system. 00:10:30 Training is important for implementing systems. 00:17:37 Building a solid foundation before adding features. 00:23:34 Freemium tools hook users, may require payment. 00:26:06 Scalability in software is crucial for business. 00:29:26 Zoho constantly improves and is worth considering.   The giveaway guide! Have you checked out our episode offering a complete guide to buying IT services in 2023 yet? It comes with a free downloadable buyer's guide. Check it out here. Want to get more 'Techcess' in your business? Get more valuable technology insights from m3's blog pages, here. Mark Riddell's technology podcast "Techcess" is an m3 Networks production. Mark and the team have created this podcast to help you and their clients understand how technology can help them in their industry and business, including helping them with cyber security solutions. To find out more about Mark Riddell and the rest of the m3 team, visit them here and follow them on Linkedin. If you want to get in touch about technology or cyber security, just address an email directly at Mark here. He'll be very happy to hear from you. Thanks for listening! If you enjoy this episode, make sure you follow the podcast via your favourite app. Fancy giving the Techcess technology podcast a review and rating? Click here - https://www.techcesspodcast.com    Techcess is a podcast from m3 Networks