On-premise CRM is an alternative to the web and cloud versions of CRM that are becoming increasingly popular. This form of CRM is supplied onsite by a server within the company’s domain instead of remotely online via the web or cloud.
Those who decide on on-premises CRM will have to lay out a large amount of capital for both the hardware and the software – something not always as steep on the other options of CRM. However, for many on-premises CRM provides a range of benefits and is more specified and suited to them.
CRM on site can be customised to suit a exact needs of a business. This is often something that more generic web and cloud options don’t allow or facilitate. On premises CRM allows companies to develop, alter and customise their CRM to individual requirements and can vary from the simple to the complex in its bespoke settings. For those who want to have a very user-specific system, this may be one of the reasons for choosing on premises CRM over other forms.
Of course, if your business only has basic CRM needs then an out of the box web or cloud option may be sufficient. These can provide all a company needs and also mean saving a lot of money. On-premises’ options are expensive initially to outlay. One of the other issues is that you have to also comprehend where they may need to go and what add-ons may be required in the future and then make allowances for them, at current levels. You should also consider your CRM in terms of scalability and whether you will need increasingly larger facilities and whether it’s worth investing now to save in the future.
If you do have your own on-premises CRM system it will need to be monitored in house. Simpler, CRM systems are often easier to maintain and implement any changes on, which can be of benefit to those with limited tech knowhow. When choosing, be sure to pick a vendor who can look after your needs and will be able to still do so with time.
Another thing to consider is whether you will need to permit your sales and marketing professionals access into your CRM. Will you need your on premises CRM to work on mobile devices? Will your marketing professionals and sales people need access on the go, to effectively perform their jobs? Some CRM systems come with client based synchronisation capabilities. These allow outside-office use and allow access from Internet enabled devices. This can ease the burden between choosing a web only option and sway the on premises CRM in your favour.