Choosing the right partner for your implementation is crucial, but with so many resources out there, finding the one best suited to your needs can be difficult. That means it is very important to do research before you select a partner. These 4 tips can help:
Check the Partner’s experience.
Make sure they are well-versed in the unique needs and “pain points” of your industry, and that they have client references you can contact. Ask if they have written customizations specific to your industry.
Find out how long they have been in business, and how long they have been working on Microsoft CRM
Check the Partner’s methodology.
This is perhaps the most important factor of all. The best resellers have a proven, peer-reviewed process to handle . Make sure their plan includes details of how they will gather your requirements. Studies have shown that half of CRM implementations go over budget due to poor planning, while many others fail due to the end solution not meeting expectations. Both of these can be avoided by gathering and documenting your business requirements, and identifying key activities that must be undertaken when implementing Microsoft CRM
Check the Partner’s training and support resources.
Make sure they have consultants on staff who are fully certified and receive product education annually, and that they have help desk support to address issues as they arise.
Check your gut.
During an implementation, you will be working very closely with your partner for quite a while, so it is important to determine your comfort level with potential partners. Ask yourself: Do they communicate clearly and effectively? Do they respond to requests quickly and thoroughly? Do they understand the unique demands of my industry? Can they explain and demonstrate technology in language all employees will understand? Are they open, and friendly?
By performing these 4 checks, you will wind up with an experienced solutions provider as your partner, which will make implementing Microsoft CRM much easier and will ensure success.
