What Are The Challenges of CRM Implementation – and What Can Be done?

There’s no question that CRM software has been a boon for businesses the world over. They provide easy access to a range of features that can streamline your day-to-day processes and make life easier for your whole team.

But this doesn’t just happen automatically. If you’re currently in the process of setting up a CRM, you’re likely in the weeds of the challenges of CRM implementation. You may well be wondering when all the good stuff is going to finally start! 

So let’s take a look at some of the challenges of CRM – but more importantly, we also take a look at some of the solutions, too. CRM problems and solutions don’t have to exist – or be discovered – in isolation.

What Are The Challenges of CRM Implementation?

So, what are the challenges of CRM integration for your business? Arguably, the main challenge of CRM software is that it needs to be implemented correctly from the get-go. There will also be a learning curve for users, and that can bring attendant CRM adoption challenges.

If the baseline isn’t in place, you’re looking at more serious issues long-term. Let’s break down these CRM problems and solutions in more detail. 

Lack of Clear Objectives

CRM implementation challenges can arise when there isn’t a clear set of objectives in place for what the implementation is trying to achieve. It ends up with a set of features that don’t fit daily needs, or simply don’t align with your organisation’s goals.

So first and foremost, you need to clearly define your objectives and goals for CRM implementation. Consult with the appropriate stakeholders and outline your required outcomes. Doing so will also flag potential CRM issues and challenges earlier, and allow for steps to be taken to address them. 

CRM Integration Challenges

One of the most common CRM challenges is integrating your CRM software with other systems – for example, accounting softwares or marketing automation. It’s a process that can be extremely complex and time consuming.

Accordingly, it’s worth looking for a CRM that has a track record of making CRM integration easy and pain-free. Tall Emu is an Australian-based CRM provider that offers a huge range of integrations, while also providing straightforward solutions and support to make the process as smooth as possible. 

CRM Cost Challenges

The CRM software price can present a challenge in and of itself. Given the costs involved, it’s important to choose a system that fits your company’s budget. 

Make sure that you also factor in the cost of implementation and training when you make your decision. Having a provider like Tall Emu can be useful on these fronts. Tall Emu support is Australia-based, while training is provided on an ongoing basis. 

Insufficient User Training

One of the major challenges of CRM implementation is providing adequate user training. Users may find a new CRM system challenging to use at first, which is why providing comprehensive training is one of the CRM issues and challenges that needs the most attention.

All users – including administrators, sales teams, and customer support staff – need to be up to speed. Accordingly, it’s also important to have a provider that offers free CRM training and onboarding as well as ongoing support. 

One example is Tall Emu, who offers both free CRM training and support via its Australian-based team. 

Resistance to Change and Lack of CRM Buy In

Employees can be resistant to any new system, and a new CRM is no exception. So one of the challenges of CRM is making sure that users understand the CRM benefits.

You need to clearly communicate how adopting a new CRM is going to benefit them on a day-to-day basis, with practical examples. CRM adoption challenges should be acknowledged, rather than shut down by management.

Involving employees in the decision-making process can also be useful. This will help to allay their concerns, and also give them a personal stake in addressing the challenges of CRM adoption. 

Poor CRM Provider Selection

One of the biggest CRM implementation challenges is that there are a ton of them on the market. But they’re not all created equal – not all of them are going to be able to effectively align with your business.

You need to find one you can trust – so look for a provider that offers a trial ahead of time to determine suitability and avoid future CRM challenges. For example, Tall Emu offers a 14 day free CRM trial.

Ongoing CRM Provider Support

Another challenge of CRM can be retaining support once integration has taken place. Software is only as good as the support it comes with. So look for a provider that offers effective after-sales support.

Tall Emu offers Australian CRM software, with a library of resources for users. Tall Emu support is also based in Australia, to ensure you’ve got locally-based after-sales support. 

Conclusion

The challenges of CRM implementation are often quite multifaceted. So it’s crucial to consult with the right stakeholders, take time to make the appropriate selection and opt for a provider that can give you the support you need.

With these steps in place, you should be able to make the right decision around the appropriate CRM for your company.