5 Keys to Preparing for Your CRM System Implementation

• what you want the system to do
• who's going to be using the system
• what business processes will meet those people's needs
• how the system can be implemented in a way that works well for future stakeholders; this includes staffing the project appropriately, and training system users adequately

Before you implement your CRM system (and preferably, before you even select your CRM system), be sure to do your prep work. Start by thinking strategically about your organization's mission and goals, and how you will measure progress toward your goals. Then, think tactically about your constituent groups and what you are doing with each of those groups. This helps you define what information needs to be stored in your CRM system and what types of processes you need to carry out — such as list management, communications and program tracking — within the system.