Piyush Bakshi is a full-time content provider working with Gate58 which owns VendorDemo.
Mobile CRM is basically the same old CRM except that you can execute CRM functions and access data while on the move. To state further, mobile CRM enables better communication between employees behind the desk and those in the field. Field operatives can view contacts, customer information, reports, and forecasting data and thus take appropriate decisions. They can also accept work assignments and keep the executives in the support office up-to-date with the latest data.
Deploying a mobile CRM is a strategic decision that you need to take if you feel that your mobile staff can make use of it to deliver their revenue targets and deliver better customer service. Being connected to remote CRM databases while on field duty means faster and smoother resolution to customer issues as well as a better chance of selling a service or a product to a prospect.
The information flow is two-way. Salespersons can access databases and at the same time the information that they captured is relayed back to the central database which gets updated and stays current. Mobile CRM is web-based and with its browser-based interface it can be run on a number of devices such as PDAs, pocket PCs, mobile phones, etc as well as different operating platforms.
Sales productivity is one of the key business aspects that experiences a positive impact when mobile CRM is deployed. Simply put, field personnel can execute routine reporting activities faster and make use of the time thus gained to focus on the requirements of the high-profile customers. Mobile CRM helps dissolve the layers between sales reps and their managers in the HQ. Bi-directional flow of information boosts sales force productivity and empowers the field executives to take independent decisions by virtue of access to crucial customer information.
Companies that have deployed mobile CRM report a reduction in paperwork and redundant data entries; however there are issues that are preventing mobile CRM from truly taking off. Broadband is still not ubiquitous although Wifi, WiMax, and VoWLAN are helping to overcome the connectivity problem. Another challenge is getting employees to successfully navigating the learning curve associated with any new technology. Security is another issue. Data encryption, strong passwords, placing the mobile CRM server on separate virtual LANs, etc are some of the things that need to be done to ensure data protection; however these should not come at the cost of productivity or speed of execution of an activity.
So if you intend to deploy mobile CRM, look for a solution that
1. Allows you to work offline as well as online
2. Can run on multiple platforms and is not device-dependent
3. Short learning cycle, ease of use and intuitive navigation
4. Uncluttered and sieved data, access only that which is relevant
5. Upgrades are easy
6. Integrates with existing CRM databases and legacy devices
- Related Videos
- Related Articles
- Ask / Related Q&A
A well planned kitchen
By: Davis Morris | 26/12/2009There are many areas of business that will provide food for either their customers or for their staff and their success will depend on a well planned and well designed kitchen that runs smoothly. Many businesses, such as department stores and shopping malls, local authorities and even work’s canteens, want their kitchens to be practical and functional but also, to be appealing to their customers.
Stainless steel catering - strong but safe
By: Rick Dahne | 25/12/2009The consequences of food poisoning can be dire to any budding catering business. The health and safety laws ensure that this is not gone unnoticed. It is for this reason that most catering companies will find a reliable company that will provide them with stainless steel catering equipment.
Do your bit to help the Bluefin when eating sushi
By: Gen Federico | 25/12/2009When you next cut into your favourite tuna sashimi or sushi delivery take time to consider where the tuna came from. The Bluefin Tuna is an impressive fish that originates from the Atlantic Ocean but over the past few decades has declined rapidly seeing an 80 per cent decrease in stock.
Shipping abroad made easy
By: Charlie | 25/12/2009It is a truth universally acknowledged that people care a great deal about their personal possessions. This does not stop being the case if we choose to start a new life elsewhere. Perhaps we are motivated to move by a good job opportunity or maybe we are tempted by a different culture- why we move does not stop us wanting to keep our valuables safe as we do so.
The Habit of Art – a review
By: Ronald Kresten | 25/12/2009‘The Habit of Art’ by Alan Bennett is proving to be one of the hottest London theatre tickets for the National Theatre, which should be no surprise as they have used many of the ingredients of their biggest hit of recent years, ‘The History Boys’.
The survival of a catering business
By: Charlie | 24/12/2009Immediacy and convenience are very important to us in the UK, as such we don’t like to cook our own food and prepare our own meals as much as we like to dine out. As more and more people eat out at restaurants, takeaway venues and other areas, there are more eating places being introduced to meet this increasing demand.
Use the number one recruiting software online!
By: MikeAfshin | 24/12/2009StaffingSoft staffing software was created for recruiting agencies, search firms and also staffing organizations.
Building Income Online Quickly - Easy As 1 - 2 - 3 As Long As You're Using Article Marketing
By: Dale Dupree | 24/12/2009Second, post this article to any high traffic online article directory under an appropriate category. If this is your first time, now take a few moments to create a free account for yourself. It is also worth while at this time to complete the profile page as you will for sure want prospective viewers of the article to know a little more about the author.The final step in
How to Improve Call Center Effectiveness
By: Piyush | 15/03/2008 | Customer ServiceTo improve call center effectiveness it is important to be aware of customer expectations. Remember it is easier to retain a customer than to acquire a new one.
CRM 2.0 for Your Business
By: Piyush | 15/03/2008 | Customer ServiceTap into Web 2.0 to exponentially increase the effectiveness of your CRM efforts, particularly useful if you are running a small business.
What is Mobile CRM
By: Piyush | 15/03/2008 | Customer ServiceLearn what Mobile CRM can do for your business. Improve the productivity of your field executives and convert more leads into sales.
Marketing Automation for your Online Business
By: Piyush | 11/11/2007 | Online BusinessMarketing automation is the key to a successful online marketing strategy. Etailers should be aware of the enormous potential of marketing automation software for getting leads and converting leads into business.
Small Businesses and Web-based CRM
By: Piyush | 07/11/2007 | Customer ServiceWeb-based CRM is here to stay and for good reasons. It is a powerful tool for SMBs which if utilized correctly enables them to compete against their bigger rivals, cut costs, and deliver greater satisfaction to the customers.