CRM ERP software solutions are also called customer relationship management software modules designed to run on an ERP, or enterprise resource planning system. An ERP system is an integrated platform that allows multiple users to run standardized software programs on a single server architecture. Integrated software platforms were first developed several decades ago to help shop floor managers in the manufacturing sector better manage scheduling and other complex shop floor operations that were often controlled by the overlapping functions of departments that did not share the same software infrastructures. This inability to share software formats also kept departments from sharing access to collective databases, and the resulting slowdowns in productivity could be damaging to a company’s bottom line.

ERP Software

With the arrival of ERP software systems, separate departments could free themselves from their isolated software platforms and run standardized applications from a single server. Departments could also share access to databases that could be updated by any authorized user in real time. This revolutionized efficiency and productivity on shop floors, and the popularity of ERP systems soon spread to many other large organizations far beyond the manufacturing sector, including government offices and university systems.

CRM ERP Software

CRM ERP software is a relatively recent module, and is one of a wide variety of back office management tools available to business owners today. Others include ERP software programs for accounting, human resources and payroll functions. CRM ERP software is specifically designed to provide customers with a portal, via the internet, that they can use to interface with a company directly. Customers can use CRM ERP software to place, change and cancel orders, to review product information and to find answers to common questions about company products and services. CRM ERP software can also allow customers to leave comments and register complaints, and customers can use CRM ERP software to reach customer service professionals directly by phone or instant message. A well-functioning CRM ERP software module can improve customer satisfaction, which can have a direct impact on sales, but CRM ERP software can meet a variety of back office needs as well. When customers use the CRM ERP software to interface with the company, they typically leave behind a wealth of data that can be gathered and aggregated. This data may include information regarding demographics, customer preferences and other material that can be used to guide company initiatives. This information can help shape the direction of research and development efforts. It can also be used by sales and marketing departments to streamline targeted promotions. Sales departments can also use this data to pursue promising leads and make the most efficient and cost effective use of their sales efforts. During a difficult economy, CRM ERP software may provide small businesses with the competitive edge they need to stay afloat.

Written by :

Don Cooper