The Hidden Costs of Free CRM

Suppose you’re looking for a CRM software solution. In that case, it’s time to stop wasting money on free trials and start thinking seriously about how to save money. Free CRM isn’t enough; you also need to pay a monthly subscription or download different apps to perform certain functions. Buying various software applications can cost you time and money. Even if you’re able to get a free version, you may not get the full benefits. Here are some hidden costs of free CRM solutions:

Pricing

Pricing for CRM software varies widely, and it generally falls into four categories: small, medium, and large. To make a proper comparison, you should contact the vendor. If you’re still unsure how much your CRM solution will cost, read on to learn more. You’ll pay between $100 and $300 per user per month. You’ll also have to pay for any functionality plugins and dedicated customer success programs.

A free CRM should automate manual processes, like updating contact information and managing customer records. Otherwise, you risk human error and potential customer dissatisfaction. Lastly, pricing should vary among CRMs. Some CRM systems allow you to start with a free tier, but you should always be able to upgrade as your business grows. The option to upgrade to a different level will allow you to expand your CRM at a lower price.

Implementation

There are a lot of different implementation costs associated with using a CRM, including the costs of hiring consultants to help you implement the new system. In addition, you’ll also incur charges for additional training for your sales team. The cost of training these employees can vary significantly, depending on their role and the number of sales representatives you have. If you have a team of 10 or more sales reps, you may consider opting for a free CRM instead.

Another cost to consider is implementation time. If the CRM system you’re considering has several different features, it’s essential to know what they do. You may have to hire extra staff to implement the system for you, which could cost as much as 1.5-2x of the original price. Additionally, you might be able to customize the software by choosing premium apps or add-ons, but this can come at a cost. So, before deciding on a CRM system, please spend some time learning as much as you can about its features.

The cost of CRM implementation can vary widely, depending on how much time it takes to implement the software. While some vendors do not disclose these costs upfront, the cost of implementing a CRM system can be high. The cost of CRM implementation is usually equal to one-third of the total cost of the CRM subscription, so a conservative estimate of $1200 to $5,000 would be reasonable. By ensuring you are aware of these costs, you can determine which one would be the best choice for your business.

Ultimately, implementing a CRM system is an investment that requires careful planning and budgeting. It is best to seek the help of an experienced implementation partner that can give you an accurate quote. Some implementation partners charge based on project size, while others charge hourly or final sum per task. By understanding these practices, you can draft a reasonable budget. However, it would be best not to opt for free CRM. It is always better to consult with the experts on CRM costs before making your final decision.

Support

The “hidden cost” of CRM applications is often difficult to discern. Still, there are some things that you should look for before committing to a free CRM solution. These expenses include storage costs, the right to use the system, and support costs. CRM support and maintenance contracts are often complex, and the costs can quickly escalate over time. In years past, support and maintenance contracts were straightforward and typically included a fixed percentage of the software’s value. However, the landscape has changed, and today’s CRM vendors and implementation partners offer a variety of support and maintenance contracts with different pricing models.