Before implementing a free CRM, you should compare the benefits and drawbacks of it with the paid CRM solution to ascertain the best results and to clarify whether the free CRM solution will be able to carry out the customer management needs.
Many companies are offering free CRM solutions, with some upfront benefits. Free CRM may be the right one for you if you’re a start-up organization still growing your customer contacts list.
Not to forget, that free CRM tools allows you to try before you make a purchase.
If the free application can give you what your business needs without any compromises then better grab the one. But if getting it will eat up your resources as they spend time in figuring it on how to use it, then better to go for a paid one which would offer user friendly and efficient features.
Note that when you plan to upgrade your system to a different one can be a painful experience. Migrating the complete data is a real headache. So if you are expecting to grow anytime soon, then keep this in mind. Also, if you do select a free system, can it be upgraded for a fee? That would solve your worries of upgrading by paying as you grow.
Also will you get enough support for free tools if any queries or issues? Many free CRM tools have their limitations like amount of data that you upload or no of files you upload, no of contacts you can add etc. There are chances that you are entering duplicate customer data instead of realizing that the customer information already exists. You may be restricted in running necessary searches or getting reports. When it comes to paid CRM, these options are all included.
In some cases, you can go for 15-30 day free trials or opt for paying nominal fees to start and use it for few days before purchasing the entire CRM application. This helps in understanding the CRM before considering it for your business.
On the whole, free CRM tools are worth for start-up organizations only. Free CRM solutions are not a perfect solution because as you grow you’ll find out that you need a robust solution. Instead you can choose a paid CRM solution with the least available package and further upgrade it when required.