Why a CRM is an essential part of the Construction Industry

Contact Relationship Management (CRM) refers to the methods, tools employed in sourcing and maintaining a customer and client base. A good CRM software gathers information, interactions and history on customers, clients, sub-contractors, 3rd parties and employees.

The information gathered ranges from personal information, including contact details,company communications, documentation, activities and construction projects progression. Over time, valuable data can be drawn from records for analysis on trends and preferences to improve the productivity of a business.

A well-developed CRM especially within the construction industry can be invaluable in time management and budgeting.

CRM Solutions for the Construction Industry

Companies in the construction industry typically deal with a huge number of clients and suppliers. Traditionally companies would collect masses of documents and must adhere to compliance and administrative tasks. A sound CRM system is not only beneficial but necessary for the effective management of relationships with these partners and compliance. A CRM will reduce the time and cost spent on these daily administration tasks.

Each unit of a construction company can benefit from CRM data. Data collected can be used in construction site development, sales and marketing management, as well as sub-contractor administration management.

Data analysis tools such as Excel do not offer much in the way of versatility or collaboration. Hence, construction businesses of all sizes benefit immensely from CRM systems.

Types of CRM Systems

CRM solutions deployed in the construction industry fall into two main categories.

1. On-Premises CRM
   In-Premises CRM software is bought and stored on a company’s internal servers. Companies that purchase this type of CRM have complete control of how the software is used. This allows businesses full control over configuration of the software to fit in with existing protocols. This CRM system is generally adopted by smaller businesses with limited resources and is a perfect place to start learning the capabilities of CRM.
2. Cloud-Based CRM
   Cloud computing has changed the way businesses operate; cloud-based CRM solutions offer real-time access from anywhere. This is the ideal solution for larger construction companies with offices in several locations because it offers the advantage of adaptability to the growth of the company.

Benefits of a CRM Solution for Construction Firms

Record keeping is pivotal in running a successful construction business. Traditionally, most companies had physical files for each customer. The risk of physical damage and the ease of access to vital information is the reason many construction companies now wholly operate through CRM.

Some of the benefits of CRM include.

• Real-Time Monitoring
  CRM enables live monitoring of all the stages of a construction project, the people involved, and the key objectives. Working with several players requires a simple yet intuitive system that can give a detailed overview with just a few keystrokes.
• Automation
  Modern CRM tools are customisable depending on underlying needs. Tasks such as setting up meetings and periodical reviews of projects can be fully automated and synced with the company’s calendar. The system can also be set up to notify developers and contractors of upcoming changes to the project. The same processes can be continued across all projects, once correctly configured. These automated processes ensure consistency and professionalism across each project.
• Collaboration
  Perhaps the most significant upside to customer management. Every customer has unique needs, which may involve personnel from different departments in your company. CRM integration ensures every individual involved has access to the system; this prevents omission, duplication, and misappropriation of tasks.
• Anytime, Anywhere
  Users can access all relevant information regarding clients and projects anytime, anywhere, 24/7/365. While at home, in the office or onsite, important information can be accessed quickly. This is incredibly important for time sensitive tasks. Access can be granted throughout any connected device including, mobile, laptop and tablet. A well-crafted CRM should come with its own mobile App for better easier use.
• Ease of Access
  Compared to traditional customer management, CRM products offer a central place to access past and present data. Management and staff can track what is happening at any given time and contact persons in case of queries or concerns. This 360-degree view of what is happening is vital for successful project completion and client relationships.
• Good Relationships, Happy Customers
  Overall, the combination of all other benefits of CRM solutions paves the way for creating, improving, and nurturing the way your business relates with customers.Timely access to important data, on-demand generation of reports, and automatic task handling makes the process seamless. Users of contact data can make informed decisions on project allocation and progression.The construction industry is a competitive field. Exceptional customer management often makes the difference between companies that make the leap from good to great.

But what CRM system should you adopt?

Acclivity CRM provides several CRM solutions to industries throughout Ireland. Our CRM solutions are based on our clients’ requirements and the industry that they are based in.Certain construction companies may need assistance streamlining sub-contractor portfolios and/or client information and contact details.

Acclivity has the solutions to fit your needs.We provide in-depth training into our range of services and products. We work with our clients to develop a customised approach that works for your business model.

Acclivity does not believe in a one size fits all approach and this is important within the construction industry. A versatile industry needs versatile solutions.

Contact us today so we can discuss the CRM system that will work for you.