The most important step after acquiring a Salesforce license is knowing how to customize and leverage it to the specific needs of the organization. A well-implemented CRM platform can deliver a great customer experience. Arguably the world’s leading CRM, Salesforce boasts an incredible customer base and suite of cloud-based applications that are widely used across all industries and services. Implementing Salesforce with the right strategy and approach can help companies to increase revenue, and sales efficiency and sort out complex business challenges.

Types of Salesforce Implementation

1. In-house Implementations

   For new salesforce users, in-house implementation is not recommended. This type is rarely used because of its aftermath. [For example: if a business demands more functionalities, you must rebuild the existing implemented system. Rebuilding may result in technical errors due to a lack of efficiency in implementation]. Official implementation partners and third-party integrations help you build the custom system you need faster, better, and more predictably than building it yourself.Here are some pros and cons of handling Salesforce Implementation in-house

   

2. Third-party Implementation partners

   Leveraging the knowledge of a partner for implementing salesforce helps to overcome the pitfalls associated with in-house implementation. The third-party implementation makes the process of implementation as early as possible. Having a partner to implement should never result in dependency on that partner since they provide training and documentation by which clients can manage and extend their system long after the project has been completed.There are many implementation partners and tools by salesforce, were some offers end-to-end services, from CRM planning assistance to training and post-maintenance support.

   

3. Hybrid Implementations

   A hybrid approach can be considered if one can confidently handle some elements of salesforce implementation efficiently.

   

Salesforce Implementation Framework

To implement a successful salesforce CRM platform, here mentioned a framework that every user should consider.

1. Identify your needs

   Start by asking each department to create a list of responsibilities, recurring tasks, sales processes, and workflows. Your responses will help determine which areas of your organization can benefit from implementing Salesforce, and what Salesforce needs to do for them.

2. Focus on Expenses

   Implementation costs for Salesforce vary widely, strategy will depend a lot on your budget. Now that you know what to expect from Salesforce, you can start exploring different options and costs. Some expenses are common in salesforce like,

   • Salesforce Licenses
   • Implementation partner
   • CRM migration
   • Integration
   • Salesforce training
   • End-user support and maintenance

3. Find an expert that fits your needs

   Salesforce Implementation Partners are more than just experts when it comes to Salesforce. They each have their own industry expertise that influences what they offer to the organization. Look for a partner with experience implementing organizations of similar size in your industry.

4. CRM Migration

   To get your new Salesforce CRM up and running, you need to move the data you want to access to the new system. Invest in an implementation partner with data migration experience for your organization’s size to ensure a smooth transition.

5. Invest in employee training

   Training is an important aspect of enabling technology. If your reps don’t have the training and resources they need, you risk lower adoption rates for Salesforce than giving your team what it takes to be successful. There are a few different pieces of training to consider

   • Admin Training
   • User Training
   • Train-the-Trainer

6. CRM maintenance and support

   Deploying Salesforce is an ongoing process. There will always be updates and changes, so plan to maintain your CRM. Your Salesforce deployment partner will likely help you set up ongoing maintenance for your organization. You will also need to perform regular reviews of your processes and workflow to make any necessary changes.

Tips for Salesforce Implementation

• Being Adaptable
• Establish clear time requirements from the stakeholders
• Get collaborator buy-in early
• Accord utmost priority for communication
• Provide a range of resources and training alternatives