May 2017
Savings, Savings, Savings: How Can a Bespoke CRM Lower IT Costs?
With IT playing such a fundamental role in the 21st Century workplace, it’s no surprise that budgets for equipment, software and hosting are starting to mount up. For small businesses, however, that’s a cost which could be better invested in growth, resources or just maintaining a health cash flow.
How, then, can bringing a bespoke CRM – a tool used for improving workflows and customer service – help to reduce IT costs and make reinvestment possible? It’s actually quite straightforward!
No Specialist Software
Previously, off the shelf solutions would require users to install specialist software – usually at a hefty additional price. This software could also sometimes require additional updates, and the costs would start to increase over time at the discretion of the manufacturer.
On the other hand, bespoke CRM solutions are built without the need for specific software to be installed, instead being accessed from anywhere. Not only does this save on software costs, but it also prevents employees from being tied down, working in one location.
No Need for an Onsite Server
There are still many instances of off-the-shelf solutions being hosted on onsite servers, but this comes with its own problems. Aside from being at risk of physical damage, onsite servers also require maintenance to ensure they continue to work without disrupting the business. What’s more, there’s the actual cost of buying a server and powering it.
So, what’s the alternative? Thankfully, Cloud-based bespoke CRMs allow for businesses to store data offsite, in an environment which is secured and maintained – the cost of which is usually included. This takes the onus for maintaining a server off the business and cuts out all related costs – a huge, immediate saving.
No Need to Update Current Hardware
When it comes to selecting a CRM solution, you might be advised to update hardware – perhaps your PC isn’t considered up-to-date enough to run the software, or it’s not a certain brand? Whether or not a genuine concern for your current hardware has been aired, there’s a hefty price tag attached to upgrading all of your hardware to the latest models.
In comparison, Team Lunar have worked hard to ensure that our bespoke solution will work on your current PC with no issues at all – making it more accessible to clients who are perhaps waiting for the opportunity to update machines at a later date, or who have a BYOD (bring your own device) policy in place.
Reduced IT Staffing
As any business owner will know, running your own IT is a time-consuming and costly venture. The answer is seemingly to hire an in-house IT support team, but this can result in high staffing costs and a surplus of talent where they might not necessarily be a need for full-time support just yet.
Doing away with this cost, Lunar’s bespoke CRM solution includes access to a Technical Support team, who are available to solve issues remotely without business owners needing to consider PAYE and other employee costs. What’s more, they’re experts in their field, resolving queries with efficiency.
Start Saving
Hopefully, this will have given you some insight into how to make those cost savings when it comes time to shop for a new CRM. In short, a bespoke option requires lest commitment to IT expenses, all the while providing features and functionality suited to your business.
If you need any more guidance on choosing a bespoke CRM, don’t hesitate to get in touch and arrange your free demo! Our team are happy to talk and answer any questions you might have.