How to get the project off to a good start
The proven SmartWe Project Method guides you to success using clearly defined steps and best practices.
In addition to our free TrainingCenter we support a successful CRM launch with a systematic approach.
We take a holistic view of a CRM initiative - from the initial requirements and implementation through to continuous optimization and further development. The human factor becomes a success factor here - on the one hand, the users who will be working with the CRM solution in your company. And on the other, customers and business partners, to whom key corporate processes should be geared in the long term.
A proven process that guarantees success
We have had particularly good experiences using a train-the-trainer concept.
This will enable you to support or carry out configurations on the system yourself so that you can benefit from this knowledge in the long term.
Our proven SmartWe project method, which has been successfully applied in numerous client projects, ensures a structured approach through its phases of selection, implementation, and further development. This fosters reliability and efficiency, while actively involving people as a key factor for success.
1. Selection
- Getting to know each other personally and defining goals
- Record initial requirements and present SmartWe
- Free test phase with support from the TrainingCenter
- Creating a quote
2. Implemetation
- Joint project start and training of the project team (key users)
- Optional phases with
Detailed requirements analysis
Implementation and testing
Training of all users - Going live
3. Further development
- Fine tuning and optimizing
- Continuous further development
- Training of additional users and integration of new areas
1. The first step - just go!
Define your big goals and break them down into smaller ones in order to proceed step-by-step. Ask yourself: Where can I start? Where is the biggest problem? Which functions will yield quick wins? Take your first step with confidence - good planning and good project management help to overcome hurdles quickly. Visible success motivates everyone involved to take the next steps.
2. Creating acceptance - reaching the goal with common rules
Strengthen the change process with clear goals and defined rules. The project participants are actively involved in the change right from the start - this reduces any fears and replaces them with acceptance, security and trust. Tip for maximum commitment: Role cards show everyone their importance in the team and clarify the responsibility for joint success.
3. CRM is a management issue
Management backs the CRM project, commissions the team and equips it with the necessary skills. If the significance and relevance of the project are communicated regularly, then the team will work towards success feeling supported from a strong base.
4. Customer centricity as an overarching CRM strategy
The basis for a successful CRM implementation is a clear CRM/XRM strategy: Customer centricity places customers at the center of all touchpoints, services and developments and shapes the entire corporate culture. Before starting the project, check your focus, consider the customer experience and clarify the common goal of: "Where do we want to go?". This ensures that your project is set up for a successful CRM future right from the start.
5. Free expert insight - using the knowledge of employees
The introduction of new technologies is more successful if the user perspective is included at an early stage. Employees are often the best process experts - use this expertise and create motivation, as everyone becomes part of the overall success. Define roles such as Key User, CRM Manager or Administrator and let them define processes themselves and clarify questions in a practice phase. Key users from marketing, sales and service then contribute their requirements; process manuals record the processes and make them accessible to everyone.
6. A must - the system and process check
Before the CRM implementation, you take a technical and commercial look at your IT and communication structure.
Check processes and communication, align yourself in a customer-oriented manner across all contact channels. Integrate interfaces to ERP, CPQ or ECM to enable smooth customer journeys and save time for customers.
7. Your competitive advantage - full concentration on core processes
Processes change dynamically - you can quickly achieve 80% of your target in half the time it takes to achieve 100%. Long CRM projects cause enthusiasm to wane and framework conditions to become obsolete. Digitize step-by-step, check the customer experience from the customer's perspective and discover optimizations. Technology makes work easier, business remains human.
8. Partners at eye level - focusing on future and investment security
Choose a software provider whose CRM keeps pace with the development of your company. An established manufacturer offers investment security and the right solution for all company phases. Familiarity with business processes enables partnership-based cooperation, secure project implementation and successful chemistry between the company and the implementation partner.
9. In exchange - maintain open communication at all times
Different opinions are part of every project. Conflicts should be addressed early on and discussed openly. Defined rules help to identify and defuse potential conflicts so that the team pulls together and the CRM project remains successful in the long term.
10. Post game is pre game - keep an objective view at all times
A step-by-step approach is the key to successful software implementation. A long-term collaboration begins after the CRM launch: New requirements, extensions and software updates will follow. CRM thrives on employee ideas - keep the project team as a fixed point of contact, with regular meetings, steering committees or annual reviews to check the course and keep the system running.