Your CRM is not worth it!
Are your expectations too high?
Throughout my career in CRM, I have seen countless teams stretch their CRM beyond its intended purpose.
And the outcome?
Disappointment, frustration, and a lack of adoption.
Take this example:
A client attempted to use their CRM as a complex quoting engine, a CPQ (Configure Price Quote) system.
Handling tens to hundreds of line items, complex rules, tiered discounts, and exceptions.
The project struggled: with speed issues, over-customisation, maintenance nightmares, lack of adoption and increasing confusion.
The right approach:
Before you customise a system to the point of no return, pause.
Is the CRM the best tool for this? The right tool, paired with systems integration and automation might provide a cleaner, more sustainable solution without pushing a single system beyond its limits.
Remember:
- It is OK to re-evaluate
- It is OK to switch strategies
- It is NOT OK to ignore the signs until it is too late - the blame game begins and a CRM switch feels necessary
If this sounds familiar, don’t hesitate to ask peers, seek guidance, and learn from others’ experiences (both successes and failures).
My takeaway:
Choose the right tool for the job, ensure seamless workflows, and integrate with a strong automation strategy.
A CRM is not flawed just because it can’t handle everything - recognising its strengths and limits is key to leveraging it effectively.
HubSpot
Salesforce
Affinity
SmartSuite
SugarCRM
⬇ Have you encountered similar challenges? Add a comment!
Let’s discuss how a well-integrated tech stack might provide more sustainable growth and enable productivity within your teams.
I am Enrico 👋 and I help reduce B2B business friction with tech.
What can I help you with, today?
