OK, so you know you need a CRM, and you're asking yourself if you should choose a client side CRM or a web based CRM?

The answer here lies in what your business model is and how many people you work with (or that works for you). If you're a loan wolf agent, then a client side system can have it's benefits. It will allow you to add data when you're offline and you're not dependent on having an internet connection to work within your database. However, a web based CRM is really the way to go if you're looking at harnessing all the power a CRM can give you.

Web Based CRM Features

• Works when you don't

A web based CRM will be working for you even when you aren't online. If you have webforms on your website a web based CRM can send out an autoresponder even if you are asleep.


• Your data is more secure

Almost all web based CRM systems come with a robust security feature that keeps your data safe. Client side systems are dependent on whatever security you have on your laptop, and laptops are notoriously easy to steal and crack into.


• You have availability from any internet connection

This way you don't have to be dependent on a machine, so if for instance the hard drive on your laptop crashes, all your data is safe and you can get a new laptop and go on as if nothing had ever happened.


• New features become immediately available

With client side software you'll have to purchase the newest version and download it in order to get the newest features of the system. Most web based CRM systems use the .asp model, which allows you to get the newest features without having to pay out again for the next version.

If you're looking for a good web based CRM system I suggest taking a look at Masterdigm^©, you can find them online at www.masterdigm.com. This system has a ton of features and if you fill out the Demo request form and mention you're an Active Rain member you even get a 30 day free trial of the system! It's hard to beat FREE!

I hope this helps your hunt for a good web based CRM.