However, very few companies are actually maximizing their ROI on their CRM software. In fact, as we show in this free infographic, much of the potential benefits of CRM systems often remain unused. Why is this, and what can be done about it?
Common Obstacles to CRM Implementation
Why is it that the benefits of such powerful tools are rarely reaching their full potential? Well, there are a few answers.
- Many CRM systems are complex tools but they are often dry and boring, resulting in low motivation to perform data entry.
- Lack of proper training and implementation by upper management.
- Lack of clearly defined goals and guidance for primary users.
- No executive strategy for how the system should be used.
- Inaccurate data.
- Thinking a CRM will magically solve all of your problems.
7 Tips for Getting the Most out of Your CRM System
There are a few key things that must take place in order to ensure successful CRM implementation and to mitigate the problems above. These include:
- Buy-in and support from top management.
- CRM specialist dedicated to troubleshooting, fixing integrations and developing strategy.
- Effective and continual training for data entry and system usage. This can be done via classroom, web, etc.
- Establish and communicate vision, strategy, purpose and goals.
- Ease into it. It’s important to remember that adoption takes time, training and patience. Don’t attempt to integrate everything at once.
- Measure results!!!
- Employ motivation software to encourage adoption. Reward, recognition and feedback loops will ensure that you are getting the most out of your CRM system.
How to Reward, Recognize and Motivate CRM User Adoption
Users who receive feedback and encouragement are much more likely to be more active logging information within the CRM system. In order to maximize user adoption and to make data entry more fun, companies should consider integrating a motivation system. Gamification software can help encourage user adoption by making it more fun to enter data. In fact, 90.4% of companies using a CRM system report that their gamification initiatives are successful. Additionally, 84% reported an increase in CRM adoption after implementing the ability to deploy competitions and games around the data tracked in their CRM.
This boost in user adoption is most effective when the achievement of clearly designed goals are rewarded with meaningful recognition. Friendly competitions, leaderboards, and other game-like tools can be implemented to provide additional incentive for data entry. They are also useful tools for training proper usage and for measuring results created within the CRM system.
Gamification software makes it more fun and rewarding to perform routine tasks within your CRM by rewarding key behaviors with points, recognition, levels, competitions and other exciting elements. So, if you’re stuck in a rut and looking for a way to get the most out of your CRM system, consider giving gamification software a look. You can learn more about how to improve your CRM adoption rates and boost ROI with sales motivation software here.
In the meantime, we wish you all the best and hope that 2016 will be a great year for your entire organization. Remember, CRM systems are an essential tool… but in order to get the most out of your investment, be sure to follow our 7 tips for successful CRM implementation.