ERP and CRM are essential software tools for supporting business growth, regardless of size.
Although the two tools share many similarities, entrepreneurs often choose to subscribe to two separate pieces of software to manage order processes and customer relationships. On top of that come the other tools used daily: cloud drives, project management software, automation tools, etc. This very common practice, however, causes significant time loss for users who switch between numerous tools and represents a substantial investment.
Aware of the difficulties that tool proliferation creates for small and medium-sized organizations, Hootis has developed a modular ERP/CRM tailored to freelancers (micro-entrepreneurs), start-ups (small businesses and SMEs), and web/digital agencies. Let’s explore this tool together.
What is a modular ERP/CRM?
An ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) is software that integrates in its database all the information and processes of a company, from one end of the order chain to the other:
- sales,
- purchases,
- finance,
- human resources,
- etc.
A CRM (Customer Relationship Management) is designed to help companies manage and track their customers. The tool allows you to:
- list leads and their activity,
- track revenue per customer,
- launch marketing campaigns,
- etc.
The modular ERP/CRM brings these different functions together in a single tool. It enables entrepreneurs to get a global view of their sales processes and results without having to cross-check data stored in different applications. Some tools like Hootis even combine these functions with other applications useful for small/medium businesses and web/digital agencies. This simplifies business management while reducing costs.
As its name suggests, a modular ERP/CRM is an evolving solution: you can add or remove features according to your needs while maintaining system coherence.
An adaptable ERP/CRM is not limited to a particular sector or company size and can be configured to meet each client's specific needs. Freelancers, very small businesses, SMEs, digital agencies… the ERP/CRM adapts to the needs of all types of organizations, whatever their field of activity.
Hootis, a complete modular ERP/CRM
Developed by an independent professional who became a web agency director, Hootis takes into account all the needs of both types of organizations to offer a fully customizable toolbox for your company:
- ERP: accounting, scheduling, etc.
- CRM: prospecting, customer follow-up, invoicing, etc.
- Automated emails: prospecting, payment reminders, etc.
- Secure password manager
- Project management/KANBAN
- Website generator
- Drive
- Wiki
- Scrapers (directories, Google results)
- …
Hootis brings together all the essential features of your various tools in one place so you can focus on your core business without wasting time.
6 selection criteria to choose the right ERP/CRM
To choose the right ERP/CRM software, you will need to carefully evaluate a number of criteria.
1. Modularity
Many companies accumulate a variety of tools for their management: Google Drive for file sharing, Excel for accounting, Trello for project management… Switching between these different software tools quickly becomes time-consuming on a daily basis.
A modular ERP/CRM like Hootis lets you centralize all the features you need. You can then eliminate this multitude of software and gain valuable time.
2. ERP/CRM security
Data security is now a major concern for companies. Despite this, most solutions on the market only encrypt passwords.
Hootis encrypts almost all information using heavy-duty encryption. Your encrypted data is thus protected from brute-force attacks. The solution is also subjected to regular penetration tests to guarantee its effectiveness.
3. Tool customization
Every company is unique. Your ERP/CRM should be too!
Choose a tool that allows you to customize the information displayed on your dashboard so you can see at a glance the data you need.
In addition to activating modules à la carte, Hootis offers the ability to modify the solution's CSS to create software that reflects your company's image:
- by changing the tool's colors,
- by hiding elements,
- by changing the font, borders, element sizes, backgrounds…
You don't have sufficient CSS skills to customize your CRM/ERP tool? Find a CSS integrator for free on Codeur.com!
4. Price
Compare the price of modular CRM/ERP solutions that include the features you need with the combined budget of the tools you use. You can then see the savings to be made. Don’t forget to account for the time saved by each of your employees!
On the ERP/CRM side, Hootis is cheaper than its competitors offering similar features, while providing more modules.
Plus, the tool offers a free basic plan for people who only want to use the basic ERP modules. Also benefit from ongoing, stackable discounts thanks to the solution's referral offer.
5. Simplicity
Choose a solution that offers simple access, easy setup, and a clean design. Tabs in every corner will only cloud your overall view of the data!
Prefer a tool that includes a tutorial to make it easy to get started on first use.
By offering a simple yet powerful platform, Hootis lets you generate your reports and analyses in a fraction of a second, with no training (beyond the tutorial) or IT expertise required.
6. Supported devices
Finally, verify that your preferred solution is well supported on all the devices and browsers you use.
You should be able to work on all your projects wherever you are.
Hootis is available on Windows, Linux, macOS and Android. It is also offered as a mobile app and a browser extension.
Choosing the right ERP/CRM: in summary
Choosing an ERP/CRM for your company can be a daunting task. There is a wide variety of options on the market, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
To choose a tool that will adapt to your business and provide a long-term winning solution, study carefully the six criteria detailed above. This will help you find a high-performing ERP/CRM that contributes to your company’s success for years to come.
Hootis meets all the criteria mentioned and offers a complete, modular solution for your business at a low cost. Discover the tool today.
