Do you need a CRM system migration consultant?

Customer relationship management (CRM) system migration occurs when an organization moves from a legacy platform (or spreadsheets) to a new system. To give the project the time and attention it deserves, some companies hire a CRM migration consultant. 

Why? This isn’t their first rodeo. CRM migration consultants have experience managing large-scale data transitions, so they know how to spot roadblocks and get around them. They can ensure your systems transition securely and efficiently, with minimal downtime.

Their work starts before migration, making sure data is clean and organized before it’s moved. And they stay on board after go-live to make sure training and implementation plans are carried through.

There are lots of details to manage. If you’re on the fence about whether you can handle it in-house, answer these five questions:

1. Do you know which CRM system is best for your business?

Do you have a documented list of technical requirements? And an easy way to compare the options, including customizations and add-ons? A consultant can recommend solutions that address current problems and offer guidance you can grow with. They draw on their knowledge and experience, and even push back when needed.

2. Do staff know how to migrate data (or have time to learn)?

On an hourly rate basis, a staff member may be cheaper than a consultant. But they might also have to spend more time getting up to speed on the ins and outs of data migration. In contrast, a CRM migration consultant can hit the ground running. They bring best practices and insider knowledge about tools and use cases that aren’t published in marketing materials. Consultants can anticipate challenges and orchestrate a quicker and smoother transition.

3. Does your business have unique CRM needs?

Will an off-the-shelf system work for you? Or do you plan to change fields, tables and relationships to match your workflows? Consultants know the quirks of individual systems and how to match them to your business model.

A CRM should be intuitive and efficient to use. A consultant can make sure your data is organized and running reports exactly as you need them. They can also suggest workflows and capabilities you hadn’t considered (or even knew were possible).

4. Are you skilled at training?

Consultants also train employees on the new system, so it gets put to use the right way, right away. Sales and management teams get to learn from a professional with real-world experience and the right tools.  

5. Can you afford to get it wrong?

Consultants use their experience to plan and execute a smooth and timely transition. A poor transition could put your data at risk or lock salespeople out of necessary tools and information. Time is money and most companies don’t want to spare either. 

Wipfli has extensive experience helping companies transfer their data and migrate systems. From product selection and transition planning to implementation, training and support — we’ve got you covered. Where do you need help?

Reach out or learn more on our CRM services web page.