Here's a nice article on selecting a CRM solution, from InsideCRM. I know it's a nice article, because I'm quoted in it. (You'll find me under point #2.) There really is a lot of good information in here, even when it's not me being quoted. If you're in the market for a new CRM system […]
10 Steps to Getting the CRM Solution You Need Read More »
TAUG is TMA Resources Annual Users Group meeting. This year they met in Louisville, and it was, once again, a successful event. I’ve mentioned this users group meeting before, but what I wanted to highlight this year is how TMA Resources treats the consultants who work in the association software space. There are three specific
Another Successful TAUG Read More »
This article in TechNewsWorld, discusses the recent decision by the Census Bureau to abandon its use of handheld computers to take the census in 2010. E-Commerce Times asked me why these kinds of projects fail. My answer: “In my experience, the primary reason for large IT failures is a lack of clear business objectives —
Why IT projects fail Read More »
In the retail world, marketers often speak of "channels." Channels are the different methods of purchasing interaction between the customer and the seller. For example, the web, the phone, and storefronts are all examples of different channels. In a recent issue of Customer Relationship Managament magazine, an article noted that retail outlets with multiple channels
How Many Channels are You Using? Read More »
Many years ago I was sitting in a meeting between a vendor and an association client. The vendor asked "How many members do you have?" The client, with a straight face, answered "It depends on who is asking." Without a pause, I blurted out "That's insane! There should only be one answer to that question."
Be Honest with Yourself Read More »
I think there is a common misconception among smaller organizations that somehow "big" companies don't have the same kinds of challenges with systems implementations. That is, while smaller companies struggle with selecting and implementing new systems, big companies don't because they've got so much more in the way of resources. The reality, of course, is that regardless
Even the Big Guys Struggle with System Implementation Read More »
When I work with my clients on system selection, one thing I strongly advise them to do is limit the number of systems they actually consider. While more choices sounds better than fewer, the reality is that too many choices creates more confusion. I’ve written about this here. But as I discussed this issue with
"It's like trying too many perfumes…" Read More »
Yet another reason you want to be sure your backups are working… Disgruntled Employee Deletes Company's Files (Hat tip, David Gammel)
And speaking of backing up your data… Read More »
I recently conducted an unscientific survey of association executives, asking them what their plans are for business intelligence. Of the 71 responses received, here were the results: + Only 15% said they have a business intelligence plan in place. + Thirteen percent said they will have one in place by the end of 2008. +
Business Intelligence Survey Results Read More »
Listening to a podcast from Voices of CRM recently, I was not surprised to learn that the number one problem with large-scale CRM deployments is "user adoption." That is, getting users to actually use the system that's been implemented. Now keep in mind, we're talking about companies with thousands if not tens of thousands of
User Adoption is a Problem Everywhere Read More »