Having a customer management relationship software platform implemented as part of your business’s routine is the norm among many businesses regardless of size. Such software has helped many businesses make use of their time and has aided in extra productivity. One method of CRM software is to have it hosted on the cloud as opposed to a client’s server directly, and while this ideal in principle, it isn’t without its risks. This is not to say that anyone with a cloud based platform should switch immediately, but it does mean that they should be aware of what threats can occur with a cloud-based platform.
One setback that can arise in the world of cloud-hosting is downtime, evidently any information stored on a business server direct would probably be resolved quicker than that of a cloud-hosting company. So should its platform go down, your access to the platform goes down as well until it’s back up and running. There is also the security of the information stored in the cloud to consider. Many CRM software platforms will display both its client list and its sales forecast, neither of which a business would like to see a competitor to get hold of. In this regard, it’s important to ensure that the CRM platform you use has a security plan in place, as well as full risk analysis should such a setback take place. There is also the possibility of a platform going out of business, so ensuring your data is safe regardless of this outcome is another factor to take into consideration.
Of course the negatives can be counterbalanced with the positives of cloud-based CRM software. One such benefit is that the software is up and running and ready to use. The other appeal of cloud-based software is that many users find that there is not as much to learn, meaning they can get started sooner rather than later.
It’s also worth doing your homework when it comes as to which CRM software platform to use as part of your business. One platform that has been famed for its innovation is Salesforce. The platform is known for supplying new features to its platform on a continuous basis as well as promoting an active user base, so if you do have any questions you can’t find the answer to, then there will be someone within the community who will be able to help. Oracle CRM on Demand is another popular choice that weaves together lead management with sophisticated marketing. Reports are also easily created and the platform even offers a section of hosting options for your CRM.
When it comes to ensuring your CRM software platform is safe, it really is a case of treating it like you would anything else. You do your homework to ensure that the company you are using is reputable and trustworthy, as well, having contingency plans in place should the worst case scenario occur.
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Clouded And Dangerous Credit Picture License: Alex Dunne via photopin cc
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