How do you manage projects?
Many companies have outgrown the basic systems used in the past to manage the delivery of professional services. It is time to look at Project Management software.
Should you choose a stand-alone system like Microsoft Project or one that is integrated with your Dynamics CRM software? The answer depends in part on the size and type of projects you manage.
Stand-alone Project Management software helps streamline projects with its tight control and focus on the tasks involved. It makes all the data your team needs easily available, significantly reducing errors in processing and scheduling. Because the stand-alone systems are so competent, they increase team confidence and efficiency.
On the other hand, the complexity of many of the stand-alone systems and the advanced skills needed to use them, make them better-suited for very large companies working with highly complex projects such as highway construction or large-scale heavy-equipment manufacturing. And because the systems are stand-alone, data collected from CRM software has to be in-put again. Double entry always increases the chance of error.
For most businesses, an integrated solution is more logical. Integrating your Project Management solution with your CRM software ensures seamless handling of customers and their projects from beginning to end. All the information is in one place and more people are able to access the project data thus cutting down on time spent searching and asking others for information.
For a fuller discussion of the strengths of stand-alone compared to integrated PM software, download the White Paper: CRM Integrated Project Management Software.
By Ryan Plourde, www.AbleBridge.com
Twitter: @AbleBridge
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