What Is CRM & Project Management Software?

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One of the most common questions C-level executives ask themselves is whether or not their business needs Customer Relations Management (CRM) Software and or Project Management Software.

It’s a vital question, and the short answer is yes! Though, some businesses may need one or the other, while other businesses may need both.

Here, we’ll discuss which might be right for you.

After all, you’ll want that 28% increase in revenue and a plus of 29% in productivity.

One thing is clear: CRM/Project Management software is absolutely vital.

She’s A Given will join you on your journey to find the best solution for your business.  

RELATED: FIND THE BEST CRM SOFTWARE FOR YOUR BUSINESS

What is CRM Software? 

CRM Software is a Customer Relations Management system that is designed to collect, organize, and manage all of your customer data.

From contact information, to sales/lead tracking, and can even include document and file sharing, a CRM system is a singular hub for handling it all.

Each software has specific features based upon your business’ needs, but in general, these software platforms manage and organize workflows for you.

What is Project Management Software?

Project Management Software, on the other hand, is like an assistant to a Project Manager. PM software is designed to organize a project and see it through to completion.

When deciding on a PM software, you’ll want to find a software that includes five key components: initiating, planning, executing, controlling, and closing.

By finding software that includes these components, your project manager will be able to process the scope management, procurement management, forecasting, resource allocation, contract management, and so much more. 

PM software has become so streamlined that once a project is completed, the software will have your next project lined up for your manager to move on to, while simultaneously managing other projects as needed.

Check for key features, like if the software supports multiple users, options for file sharing, task management, reminders, has a user friendly interface, and a crisp and organized dashboard.

Finding a software that has all these little features will make life easier. 

Similarities Between CRM and PM Software

Overall, CRM and PM software are designed to help with different aspects of business, however, they do have overlapping qualities.

Typically, CRM and PM software will both include time-based software that records timelines and activities.

They also usually include some form of email integration, project planning, mobile interface, and client contact information and management.

These similarities will help you decide if you can find an “all-in-one” software to combine CRM and PM, or if you’ll want to keep them separate. 

What Should You Choose?

She’s A Given can help you with all things software-related. Our virtual executive assistants are absolute pros in setting up a system that works for you and then manages it accordingly. So, which one do we recommend?

One of the biggest bonuses to using an all-in-one software is that it is cost-effective. However, it’s best to take a look at the big picture.

What are your business objectives? Is your business geared toward customer service and sales? If the answer is yes, then you will want to focus more on the CRM side of a software.

If your business is focused more on production, or a primary function is to develop internal activities and processes, you’ll want to find a software that is geared more towards project management.

If your business is focused on one area more than the other, it’s more beneficial to keep your software separate.

If you are a new business, it could also be helpful to “kill two birds with one stone,” and start out with a software that can do it all. 

We suggest starting by looking at your business model. Write down the top three features you’d like in a CRM or PM software, then ask yourself what would be three added perks to have in that software.

Then, as you start looking at and testing software, you’ll know what your must-have features are. This exercise will lead you toward keeping things separate or combining them in your business. 

Still have questions? We’d be happy to give you our recommendations.

• What are the similarities between CRM and PM software?

  CRM and PM software typically include time-based software that records timelines and activities, email integration, project planning, mobile interface and client contact information and management.

• What should I consider when deciding between CRM and PM software?

  When deciding between CRM and PM software, it is important to consider your business objectives and what your primary focus is. If your business is focused on customer service and sales, then you will want to focus more on the CRM side of software. If your business is focused on production or developing internal activities and processes, then you will want to find a software that is more geared towards project management.

• How can I determine which software is best for my business?

  To determine which software is best for your business, we suggest starting by looking at your business model. Write down the top three features you’d like in a CRM or PM software, then ask yourself what would be three added perks to have in that software. Then, as you start looking at and testing software, you’ll know what your must-have features are. This exercise will lead you toward keeping things separate or combining them in your business.