Today, customer relationship management (CRM) tools are excellent ways for companies to better manage their customer base. To implement this type of solution, the intervention of certain professionals can be indispensable. In this article, we’ll explore the role of a CRM integrator.
A CRM integrator is a professional who integrates your CRM software into your company. But there’s much more to it than that.
The technical specification is the document that sets out the technical stages involved in integrating CRM software into your company’s information system. It is often confused with the functional specifications, whose functions are totally different.
Functional specifications express the company’s needs. They are drawn up long before the CRM software is selected. Technical specifications, on the other hand, are drawn up after the CRM tool has been chosen. The CRM integrator’s first task is to write the technical specifications based on the functional version.
Whether or not the software is intended to be used as a Single Customer Repository, it will be connected to several sources of data, tools, and databases. The CRM integrator’s role will then be to integrate key data flows, through APIs, connectors, custom code and webhooks.
Setting CRM software parameters involves organizing data flows, notably between the program in question and the customer’s or company’s other information systems. That’s why a CRM integrator is also a data expert.
They create data models. This is how data will be integrated and managed in the software. He also configures workflows. These are the business rules and processes for integrating data into the CRM.
The CRM integrator is an engineer and a technician. In principle, their role is limited to deploying the CRM software within the company, and integrating it with its operating system. Many CRM experts, however, help companies train their staff to use CRM software.
Once the CRM software has been integrated, the integrator may be called upon by the company to carry out maintenance. In the event of technical bugs, the integrator provides corrective maintenance. The company may also contact the integrator to integrate a new workflow or add new functions.
A CRM integrator invoices its services on the basis of actual time spent, notably on the basis of an Average Daily Rate (ADR). This can range from 650 to 900 euros. To get an idea of the cost of a CRM integrator’s services, simply multiply the number of days spent on the project by the Average Daily Rate. The number of days spent by this professional is a highly variable figure, depending on a number of factors, including the responsiveness of the IT department.
There are simple formulas for determining the cost of integrating a CRM solution. For simple CRM software, also known as “light” or “intermediate”, the cost of licensing or operation is generally less than 50,000 euros. The cost of CRM software integration is 50% of this amount, i.e., 15,000 euros for an operating cost of 30,000 euros. For complex CRM, also known as ecosystem CRM, the annual operating budget is much higher. The integration cost will then be 30%.
Before choosing a CRM software integrator, you need to take a few essential precautions.
It’s vital for a company to take stock of its resources before choosing a CRM software integrator. This will enable you to identify your real needs in terms of support during the CRM software deployment phase. Several departments within the company can be called upon for this task.
A CRM integrator that is tailored to your needs and your company will make it easier for you to bring your project to fruition. A CRM software integrator can be said to be adapted when it offers you the scope of support you really want. They must also have a perfect command of the CRM software you want to integrate into your business. For the integration of a Microsoft Dynamics 365 solution, for example, there’s no need to call on an expert specialized in Salesforce.
The size of your project and your company is another factor you need to take into account. If you’re a very small company, you’ll want to avoid hiring a large firm. It’s also in your interest to opt for a CRM software integrator with references in companies operating in your field.
To find a good CRM software integrator, all you have to do is get in touch with the competition. Simply contact several CRM experts. During discussions, take the time to analyze each service provider, both in terms of their professionalism and their ability to listen. The quotes you receive from the CRM integrators you target will make it easier for you to make your choice.
Opting for the Lemon Learning solution will provide you with multiple benefits. Our DAP solution easily integrates with all your company’s tools and software. With our solution, accessible to large and small businesses, there is no need for the services of other IT experts.
Our tool contains customizable interactive guides to facilitate CRM adoption. As a result, reduce the costs linked to user training, and eliminate the intervention of an external service provider. Lemon Learning is designed to allow companies to optimize their performance in terms of customer management, and much more. Do not hesitate to contact us to benefit from our expertise.
The role of a CRM integrator is vital when deploying customer relationship management software. To choose your integrator, you will need to take your needs into account and make quote comparisons.