Independent CRM specialists are companies such as CRM-Online that have in-depth knowledge, skills and experience of customer relationship management (CRM). They will provide a wide range of CRM services, and will not be tied to or bias towards any one CRM software manufacturer. Independent CRM specialists will have extensive theoretical knowledge of CRM as well as broad practical experience and skills developed from implementing CRM systems in a variety of different business areas.

Independent CRM specialists will not be tied to particular CRM software manufacturers, they should be the first port of call when considering or choosing a CRM system. This is because they will be able to provide unbiased advice based on their comprehensive understanding of the features, benefits and potential pitfalls of a variety of different CRM software and systems.

Typical services offered by independent CRM specialists will include business process analysis, business improvement, workflow analysis, CRM project management, sales and marketing system design, selecting or recommending suitable CRM software, customer service system development, managing change during CRM projects, system configuration and customisation, training, support, technical and programming skills. The technical skills will usually be extensive and they will know how to set up, deploy, programme, implement and best use several different CRM products. They will usually be able to create or programme CRM add-ons and bespoke CRM applications, and advise on price and costs of CRM projects.

To offer this wide range of services, independent CRM specialists are usually private companies (as opposed to individuals). They will have a variety of full-time staff as well as partners throughout the CRM industry. Staff in house will include people with extensive business knowledge as well as CRM software programmers and technical personnel. Typically staff will include experts in business processes and operations, as well as sales, marketing, customer service, project management, administration and software programmers and developers.

Customer Relationship Management is a growth area, but one which requires extensive expertise. If you are initiating a CRM project, choosing the right CRM partner is essential. Whatever partner you choose, an independent CRM specialist will make sure your project runs successfully and gives maximum return on investment.

For more details about CRM products please see our "what is CRM" - If you need any advice about the range of CRM products on the market please give us a call on 01206 591010.