Wednesday, November 12, 2008

Unleashing the Power




In today’s post I thought I would explore a side which we have yet to fully delve into here at Mobile CRM Japan. That is the use of mobile based CRM systems for the sole intent of adding both versatility and potency to one’s workforce. What I mean by this, is that if your company has a number of workers who are mobile--pardon the pun—or out of the office for major portions of their day, a well chosen CRM application can do wonders for enhancing worker productivity, modernizing and smoothing out of business operations and logistics, as well as amplifying overall customer services levels.

This push towards establishing a mobile based CRM system which has the ability to connect workers via a mobile phone to the office and allow for increased functionality is a notion that will become increasingly more important as businesses look for new and more efficient ways to service their customer’s needs. The fact is that today’s technology is evolving to the point in which this real time sharing of information is not only possible but soon to be a standard in business operations for competitive firms. Without tapping into this resource companies are putting themselves at a distinct disadvantage to direct competitors who are embracing this technology. Additionally, what should help in the adoption of this type of technology is that it is becoming more affordable for SME’s—small to medium enterprises. This news should be music to the ears of companies in Japan which is around 98% SME dominated.

To clarify both the importance and functionality issues even further, let’s say your company manufacturers, sells and services ‘ABC widgets’. Within your employee base you have two divisions which spend a number of hours in the field. One is your sales force selling your ABC widget and the other is your servicing division consisting of on-site service technicians who service your product. Your sales force should have instant access to information which may assist in enabling a transaction or closing a deal, such as the placing of an order, updating relevant customer information details, or checking inventory. Equally, your technicians should have the ability to attain instant access to company troubleshooting manuals, part numbers, part delivery orders and so on. All of this and more should be able to be performed through a wireless device so as to shorten the lead to cash cycle, increase efficiency and ultimately satisfy the customer needs.

Current mobile devices coupled with today’s rapid evolution in technology certainly have the power to unleash a host of applications aimed at helping businesses strengthen operations. Here in Japan, like most of the other industrialized worlds such a shift is certainly underway however the race is on. It is our thinking here at Mobile CRM Japan that the companies who fully embrace this mobile based CRM technology and thoughtfully single out what it can do for them, are the companies which will ultimately position themselves to thrive.

Canadian Chris

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