Going crazy trying to decide what CRM package to get?  I receive a lot of calls based on this subject.  One of the quick ways to decide is based on user count.  If you only have 2-3 users, then you cannot beat ACT’s price point and functionality.  If you have a lot of unique requirements and at least 10 users (in my opinion), then Saleslogix is the way to go, as it can be customized for almost any need (and can also be used on a mobile device and on the web).  If you are determined to get a hosted solution, then sagecrm.com or salesforce.com should be the choice, as both options provide support and maintenance built into the monthly user fee.  If you want a PC-based solution, then based on user count, SQL requirements,  process flow, and customizations needed, the choice should be between ACT (low user counts) and Saleslogix (SQL, high user counts, customizations needed).  SageCRM also offers a PC-based solution and it is only web-based, which offers some nice flexibility.

Finally had a chance to look at the new web UI of Saleslogix 7.2 and it is quite robust.  First, you will now get to avoid having to scroll on long web pages, with the new drag and drop features.  Modal dialogue boxes simpligy use and streamline data entry.  Finding data is greatly improved with Google style results with text preview as well as lookup building on virtually any entity.  The main result is an easier to use and easier to navigate experience.  For example, activities are much easier to navigate now on the web, as well as the ability search and filter is greatly enhanced, including the ability minimize individual panes to maximize specific views.

When choosing a CRM package from Sage, I am often asked which one is best. It is not an easy decision. If your decision is based on price, then ACT of course wins every time. If your decision is based on workflow, then Saleslogix is the best choice hands down. And if you truly want a hosted, web-based solution, then sagecrm.com is a great fit. There is a great link called “Choosing a CRM Solution” that I recommend as important reading.

This release is exciting and we have just received it. Some of the new features are a newly redesigned web client, standards based ASP.NET architecture, expanded mobile CRM capabilities, and an improved web and mobile customization environment. Version 6.2 and 7.0 licenses are compatible with 7.20. Most customizations to the product can now be achieved without modifying source code. The client view has been changed so that now more information can be seen without having to scroll. Another nice feature is that the client now appears to be a browser. Salesloigx Mobile is really that - on your blackberry, you now have the complete Saleslogix client experience.

You may know that you can email one contact or multiple contacts and merge the data with an email template from with-in Saleslogix. But, if you want to really market your customers and prospects, Swiftpage offers an excellent tool. It provides data on reads, opens, and unique opens, provides templates, allows you to edit templates, and provides opt out services as well. The fee is based on how many emails that you send a month. Check out www.swiftpage.com for more information.