Wizard Systems

Why GoldMine CRM Still Stands Out from the Crowd

GoldMine has been a leading CRM solution for over 30 years, and stands out from the competition in some key ways:

1. You own it - GoldMine is a one-time purchase with low annual fees for upgrades and support. You don't have to pay expensive monthly software subscriptions.

2. Synchronization included - GoldMine can be used offline without web access, making it ideal for remote teams or areas with poor connectivity. Data synchronizes when connections allow.

3. Tight integration with Microsoft Office - Creating merged letters, labels, and other documents from GoldMine contacts is easy and automated when linking the data to Word templates. Excel integration allows robust reporting.

4. Built-in email - GoldMine has its own email manager tightly integrated with each contact record. No need to juggle external email programs. All emails are automatically captured against contacts.

5. Flexible hosting options - GoldMine can be installed on your company servers or PCs, while still allowing remote access from web browsers or mobile devices. You aren't forced into the cloud.

6. Multiple databases - Unlike some CRM systems that limit you to one database or charge extra fees, GoldMine enables multiple contact databases for free. Segment you data however fits.

Those are 6 key advantages that showcase how GoldMine stands apart from typical CRM solutions. When combined with strong customer support reputation and depth of features, it's easy to see why GoldMine remains a user-favourite for small and medium-sized businesses.

5 Outstanding Features That Make Workbooks CRM a Game-Changer for Business Growth - Event 11/10

In today's competitive business world, having the right CRM system can make all the difference. Workbooks CRM stands out with its powerful combination of user-friendly features and robust business capabilities. Let's explore our top five features that make Workbooks CRM an excellent choice for growing organisations.

And want to know more?  Register for Wizard System's webinar on 11th October at 2pm UK time.  Please register here.

1. It's really easy to use:

• Clean, modern dashboard design that presents vital information at a glance
• Logical navigation structure that reduces the learning curve
• Customisable views and layouts that adapt to each user's needs
• Mobile-friendly interface for seamless access on any device
• Built-in contextual help and guidance for new users

 

2. Probably one of the most customisable CRMs out there!

• Drag-and-drop layout editor for creating personalised workspace layouts
• Custom fields and forms that can be added without technical expertise
• Configurable workflows to match your specific business processes
• Custom reporting tools that let users create their own insights
• Role-based access controls for tailored user experiences

 

3. Comprehensive Commercial Features Workbooks goes beyond traditional CRM:

• Professional quote generation with customisable templates
• Streamlined order processing and management
• Automated invoicing and billing capabilities
• Real-time financial reporting and analysis
• Contract management and renewal tracking

 

4. Loads of integrations!

• Deep Microsoft 365 integration for email and calendar synchronisation
• Google Workspace compatibility for document management
• Popular accounting software connections (e.g., Xero, QuickBooks, Sage)
• API access for custom integrations
• Social media platform integration for enhanced customer insights

 

5. Powerful Integrated Marketing Tools:

• Email marketing campaigns with professional templates
• Website visitor tracking and behaviour analysis
• Lead scoring and qualification automation
• Landing page creation and management
• Marketing ROI tracking and reporting

 

Oh, and it's VERY affordable!  Want to know more?  Book a demo with Wizard Systems or attend our webinar (link above).

Sage CRM 2024 R2 Upgrade Briefing

Sage CRM 2024 R2 is about to be released in the UK.  Here is some key information.

UI & UX Improvements

• Over 30 customer cases resolved
• Introduction of Sage CRM Ally (beta), an embedded AI chatbot for user help
• New mail merge example templates
• Minor calendar enhancements
• Mobile interface improvements, including brand and customer enhancements

Administration and Integration Enhancements

• Mailchimp integration improvements:
  • Changed field syncing to allow no upper limit
  • Improved field matching for easier syncing of new fields Added support for workflow in Quotes and Orders
• Decluttered Documents and Reports configuration admin screen
• Removed deprecated features
• Improved field labeling and fields for website, email, and IP addresses
• Enhanced documentation for Exchange Integration

Development Improvements

• Extensive fixes for vulnerabilities
• New Database Field Reference Document (to be published)
• RESTful API enhancements, including support for new Query Parameters and Operators

Other Notable Changes

• Ability to view more folders in Exchange Online and change the number of listed folders
• Increased maximum field length
• Refreshed brand and corrected names for mobile themes
• Updated user assistance and eLearning materials

Supported Software Changes

• Web browsers: Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, and Apple Safari (Mac only) are supported. Mozilla Firefox is no longer supported.
• Operating systems: Windows Server 2019 and 2022 are supported. Windows Server 2016 is no longer supported.
• Database servers: Microsoft SQL Server 2019 and 2022 are supported. Microsoft SQL Server 2017 is no longer supported.

These updates aim to improve user experience, enhance productivity, and boost security while providing better integration capabilities and development tools for Sage CRM users and administrators

Supported Upgrade Paths:

Direct upgrades to Sage CRM 2024 R2 are supported from the following versions:

• Sage CRM 2024 R1
• Sage CRM 2023 R2
• Sage CRM 2023 R1
• Sage CRM 2022 R2
• Sage CRM 2022 R1

Upgrading from Older Versions:

Users on older versions must follow a multi-step upgrade path. For example:

Example Upgrade Path for Version 7.1 Users:

1. Upgrade to version 7.2 (SP1 or SP2).
2. Upgrade to version 7.3 SP3.
3. Upgrade to Sage CRM 2018 R3.
4. Upgrade to Sage CRM 2021 R2.
5. Upgrade to Sage CRM 2024 R1.
6. Finally, upgrade to Sage CRM 2024 R2.

Important Considerations:

• Refer to the Sage CRM website for the version support lifecycle: https://help.sagecrm.com/support/support-lifecycle/
• For integrations with Sage accounting solutions or third-party applications, consult relevant documentation to ensure compatibility.

"Ensure you are upgrading from one of these listed versions, as other upgrade paths are neither tested nor supported."

Recommendation:

Begin planning your upgrade to Sage CRM 2024 R2 consult with Wizard Systems!

Enhance Your Data Governance with Workbooks CRM's Audit Extension - Wizard Systems Event 25th September

Are you looking to improve data governance, compliance, and security in your Workbooks CRM system? The Audit Extension might be just what you need. This powerful add-on provides comprehensive tracking and reporting capabilities, giving you greater visibility into your CRM data and user activities.

So attention Workbooks Users, tune into our next Workbooks 101 event where we explain all.  This short webinar will be on Wednesday 25th September at 2pm UK time.  

PLEASE REGISTER HERE

And the key Features of the Audit Extension:

1. Detailed Change Tracking: Monitor all modifications made to your CRM records, including who made the changes, when they occurred, and what specific fields were altered.

2. Historical Data Snapshots: Capture complete record states at specific points in time, allowing you to review how your data has evolved.

3. User Activity Logs: Track user logins, logouts, and system access patterns to enhance security and identify potential issues.

4. Customizable Audit Rules: Set up tailored auditing rules to focus on the most critical data and processes in your organization.

5. Advanced Reporting: Generate in-depth audit reports to analyze trends, investigate discrepancies, and demonstrate compliance.

 

Why Consider the Audit Extension?

1. Improved Data Integrity: By tracking all changes, you can quickly identify and rectify errors or unauthorized modifications.

2. Enhanced Compliance: Meet regulatory requirements by maintaining detailed audit trails of your customer and business data.

3. Increased Accountability: Foster a culture of responsibility by making user actions transparent and traceable.

4. Better Decision Making: Gain insights into how your data evolves over time, informing strategic decisions and process improvements.

5. Streamlined Troubleshooting: Quickly investigate and resolve data-related issues by reviewing the comprehensive change history.

If you rely on Workbooks CRM to manage critical business data and processes, the Audit Extension offers a robust solution for maintaining data integrity, ensuring compliance, and improving overall system governance. By providing a clear view of who's doing what in your CRM, this add-on empowers you to make more informed decisions and maintain the highest standards of data management.

For more information and pricing, please contact Wizard Systems.

Unlock the Power of Workbooks CRM on the Go: Exploring the Mobile App Event 19/9

 

In today's fast-paced business world, the ability to access critical information and manage customer relationships from anywhere is no longer a luxury—it's a necessity. That's where the Workbooks CRM mobile app comes in, offering a powerful tool to keep you connected and productive, no matter where you are.

Key Benefits of the Workbooks CRM Mobile App:

1. Real-time Access: Stay up-to-date with the latest customer information, sales opportunities, and tasks, all in real-time.

2. Increased Productivity: Update records, log calls, and manage your schedule on the move, maximizing your efficiency between meetings or while traveling.

3. User-friendly Interface: Enjoy a streamlined, intuitive design optimized for mobile devices, making navigation and data entry a breeze.

4. Customizable Dashboards: Access your key performance indicators and important metrics at a glance, tailored to your role and preferences.

5. Enhanced Communication: Collaborate with team members, share updates, and respond to customer inquiries promptly, improving overall responsiveness.

6. Security: Benefit from robust security measures to protect sensitive customer data, including multi-factor authentication and remote wipe capabilities.

7. Seamless Integration: Experience perfect synchronization between the mobile app and the desktop version, ensuring a consistent workflow across devices.

8. Customer-facing Tools: Access customer-facing features like quote generation and order processing on the spot, closing deals faster.

By leveraging the Workbooks CRM mobile app, you can transform the way you work, making your team more agile, responsive, and effective. Whether you're a sales representative in the field, a manager overseeing operations, or an executive needing quick insights, the mobile app puts the power of Workbooks CRM in your pocket.

Want to learn more about maximizing your productivity with the Workbooks CRM mobile app? Join our upcoming webinar!

Webinar: "Mobile CRM: Using Workbooks on-the-go"
Date: Thursday 19th Sept, 2pm UK time
Duration: 20 minutes

Register now: CLICK HERE

In this webinar, we'll dive deep into the features of the Workbooks CRM mobile app, share best practices for mobile CRM usage, and demonstrate how to configure the app to best suit your needs. Don't miss this opportunity to supercharge your mobile productivity!

Top 10 Tips on how Workbooks CRM can help you with prospecting

Sales prospecting is a crucial step in the sales process, and with the right tools and strategies, you can significantly improve your success rate. Here are 10 essential tips for effective sales prospecting using Workbooks CRM:

1. Leverage the Enrich Feature

Utilise the Enrich feature of Workbooks CRM to automatically gather and update valuable information about your prospects. This tool scours the web for the latest employment details and relationships, ensuring you have the most current data to personalise your outreach effectively.

2. Prioritise Your Prospects

Make use of Workbooks CRM's lead scoring features to prioritise your prospects based on their likelihood to convert. This allows you to focus your efforts on the most promising leads.

3. Craft Personalised Outreach

Use the data stored in Workbooks CRM to create tailored messages for each prospect. Personalisation can significantly increase your response rates.

4. Implement a Multi-Channel Approach

Don’t rely on a single communication method. Use Workbooks CRM to manage a mix of email, phone, social media, and even direct mail outreach to increase your chances of connecting with prospects.

5. Set Up Automated Follow-Ups

Take advantage of Workbooks CRM's automation features to set up timely follow-up reminders and sequences. This ensures you stay on top of your prospecting efforts without letting any leads slip through the cracks.

6. Track and Analyse Your Results

Use Workbooks CRM's reporting and analytics tools to monitor your prospecting activities and identify what’s working and what isn’t. This data-driven approach will help you refine your strategies over time.

7. Nurture Leads with Valuable Content

Leverage Workbooks CRM's content management capabilities to share relevant and valuable information with your prospects. This helps build trust and positions you as an industry expert.

8. Collaborate with Your Team

Utilise Workbooks CRM's collaboration features to share insights and information about prospects with your team. This collective approach can lead to more effective prospecting strategies.

9. Stay Organised with Task Management

Use Workbooks CRM's task management features to keep your prospecting activities organised and on schedule. This ensures you’re making the most of your time and not letting any opportunities slip by.

10. Continuously Update Your Database

Regularly update and clean your prospect database within Workbooks CRM. This ensures you’re working with the most accurate and up-to-date information, improving the efficiency of your prospecting efforts. By implementing these tips and leveraging the power of Workbooks CRM, you can streamline your sales prospecting process and increase your chances of success. Remember, effective prospecting is about quality over quantity, and using the right tools can make all the difference in your approach.

Boost Your Sales Efficiency with QuoteWerks and Workbooks CRM Integration

In the fast-paced world of sales, efficiency and accuracy are paramount. Imagine a seamless integration between your quoting software and CRM system that enhances your workflow, reduces errors, and saves time. Enter the QuoteWerks and Workbooks CRM integration, a powerful tool designed to streamline your sales process from quote generation to closing deals.  This solution from Wizard Systems if:

1. You use Workbooks and need a more sophisticated quote solution
2. You use QuoteWerks and are looking for a new CRM system, but don't want to stop using QuoteWerks

 

Streamline Your Sales Process

The integration between QuoteWerks and Workbooks CRM allows you to populate critical information such as "Sold to," "Ship to," and "Bill to" details from a Workbooks Opportunity into QuoteWerks. This ensures that all necessary data is readily available when creating new quotes in QuoteWerks. Once a quote is initiated, these details are automatically populated, reducing manual entry and the risk of errors.

Efficient Quote Management

Managing quotes becomes a breeze with this integration. You can amend quotes as needed within QuoteWerks, and any changes are exported to a CSV file on a set schedule. This file is then uploaded to an SFTP server, where Workbooks checks for updates and processes new files. This automated process creates new opportunities and quotes, ensuring that your sales team always works with the most up-to-date information.

Seamless Updates and Revisions

Keeping your data current is crucial for maintaining accuracy in your sales process. With the QuoteWerks and Workbooks integration, you can update "Sold to," "Ship to," and "Bill to" information directly from the quotation record in Workbooks. Simply make the necessary changes and select "Run Process > Update Quote" to ensure that all revisions are recorded and reflected in the opportunity. This feature guarantees that your opportunity replicates the values from the most recent quote, providing consistency across your sales documents.

Key Features and Benefits

• Automated Data Transfer: The integration automates the transfer of basic quote details back into Workbooks on a schedule, minimizing manual data entry and potential errors.
• Real-Time Access: Open QuoteWerks quotes directly from the opportunity or quote record in Workbooks, allowing for quick access and updates.
• Currency and Field Support: Currently, the integration supports only the base currency (GBP) and populates specific fields such as Docno, Docname, Docdate, and more in Workbooks.
• System Requirements: To leverage this integration, you need the QuoteWerks Corporate Edition on SQL, an SFTP server setup, and the SFTP Plug-in enabled within Workbooks.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can the integration work with QuoteWerks Standard Edition? Unfortunately, the Standard Edition does not support the required commands for this integration.
• Which Workbooks license is needed? The integration is compatible with the basic Workbooks CRM license.
• What documents are transferred to Workbooks? Currently, only Quotation documents are copied.
• Is contact information viewable in QuoteWerks? Not directly. Contact details must be populated by raising the quote from Workbooks.

Overcoming Common Challenges

One common concern is the delay between creating or updating a quote in QuoteWerks and seeing these changes in Workbooks. This delay depends on how frequently your SFTP client collects and uploads files and how often Workbooks checks for updates. While Workbooks can be set to check every minute, a five-minute interval is recommended for optimal performance. Setting up the SFTP server is another consideration. While Wizard Systems cannot set up the server, your IT team can configure it using Windows Operating System features or other providers. Ensure that Workbooks has access by configuring your firewall and router settings.

Conclusion

The integration between QuoteWerks and Workbooks CRM is a game-changer for sales teams looking to enhance their efficiency and accuracy. By automating data transfer and ensuring seamless updates, this integration allows your team to focus on what matters most: closing deals and driving revenue. Embrace the power of automation and elevate your sales process with QuoteWerks and Workbooks CRM from Wizard Systems today.

Customizing Your Workbooks CRM: Our Top 10 Custom Field Types! - Event 4/9

Workbooks CRM offers a robust set of tools for tailoring your customer relationship management system to your specific business needs. One of the most powerful features is the ability to create custom fields.

If you're a Workbooks CRM user or looking at Workbooks, please join us on our next online event on Wednesday 4th September at 2pm and we'll explain all

PLEASE REGISTER HERE TO ATTEND

 

Let's explore out top 10 (there's more!!) types of custom fields available in Workbooks CRM and how they can enhance your data management.

1. Text Fields

Type: Single Line Text / Multi-line Text Example Use: Capture short notes about a client or longer descriptions of projects.

2. Number Fields

Type: Integer / Decimal Example Use: Track the number of employees in a client company or record precise financial figures.

3. Date and Time Fields

Type: Date / Date and Time Example Use: Schedule follow-up calls or record important deadlines for projects.

4. Dropdown Lists

Type: Picklist Example Use: Create a list of industry sectors for categorizing your clients.

5. Checkboxes

Type: Checkbox Example Use: Flag high-priority leads or indicate whether a client has signed an NDA.

6. Radio Buttons

Type: Radio Button Example Use: Set the status of a project (e.g., Not Started, In Progress, Completed).

7. Lookup Fields

Type: Lookup Example Use: Link a contact to their associated company record.

8. Formula Fields

Type: Formula Example Use: Automatically calculate a lead score based on other field values.

9. URL Fields

Type: URL Example Use: Store links to client websites or relevant online resources.

10. Email Fields

Type: Email Example Use: Capture additional email addresses for contacts.

11. Dynamic Linked Item Fields

Type: Dynamic Linked Item Example Use: Create a field that dynamically links to different types of records based on certain conditions. For instance, linking a support case to either a contact or an organization depending on the nature of the issue.

12. Report Fields

Type: Report Example Use: Embed the results of a specific report directly within a record. For example, showing the total value of all opportunities associated with a particular account on the account record itself.

By leveraging these custom field types, you can tailor Workbooks CRM to capture and organize the exact information your business needs. This customization allows for more efficient data entry, improved reporting, and ultimately, better insights into your customer relationships.

The Dynamic Linked Item fields offer great flexibility in how you structure your data relationships, allowing for more complex and nuanced connections between different types of records. Meanwhile, Report fields can bring critical summary data right to the forefront of your records, saving time and providing instant insights.

Remember, the key to effective CRM customization is to think carefully about what data is truly valuable to your business processes. Start with the essential custom fields and gradually expand as you identify new data points that could drive your business forward. With Workbooks CRM's wide array of field types, you have the tools to create a truly tailored CRM experience that aligns perfectly with your organization's needs.

Maximising CRM Potential During Quieter Times

As summer rolls on, many businesses experience a natural lull in activity. With staff taking well-deserved holidays and clients often less engaged, it's tempting to view this period as unproductive. However, savvy organisations can leverage this quieter time to enhance their Customer Relationship Management (CRM) strategies and processes.

So during this time...

1. Perhaps reduced incoming enquiries: Just as summer sees fewer client queries, staff holidays mean fewer internal tasks and meetings.

2. Time for reflection: Both scenarios provide an opportunity to step back and evaluate current practices.

3. Chance to prepare for busier periods: Use the downtime to gear up for the post-summer rush or an employee's return.

4. Focus on improvement: With less day-to-day pressure, teams can concentrate on optimising systems.

5. Cross-training opportunities: Cover for holidaying colleagues while exploring new aspects of your CRM.

How to make the most of this time:

1. Data clean-up: Audit and update your CRM database. Clear up outstanding activities.  Check your sales forecasts
2. Process review: Analyse and streamline your CRM workflows.
3. Training: Upskill your team on CRM best practices. Contact Wizard Systems for top up training and watch out for our CRM 101 online events during this time.
4. Integration assessment: Evaluate how well your CRM integrates with other tools.
5. Automation setup: Implement time-saving automated processes.
6. Reporting overhaul: Refine your CRM reports for better insights.
7. Strategic planning: Develop new CRM-driven initiatives for the coming months.

By viewing quieter periods as opportunities rather than obstacles, you can emerge from the summer or a colleague's holiday with a more robust CRM system and strategy.

 

Top 8 Factors to Consider When Choosing a CRM System - Event 26/7

In today's competitive business landscape, selecting the right Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system is crucial for success. Whether you're a small startup or a large enterprise, your CRM can make or break your customer relationships and, ultimately, your bottom line. But with so many options available, how do you choose the right one?

Looking for a new CRM system?  Join us this Friday 26th June, 3pm UK time, for a 30-minute webinar, and we'll run through what we think are the top 8 factors, and showcase Workbooks CRM to see how it fits the bill.  

REGISTER HERE FOR THIS FREE EVENT

Briefly they are:

1. User-friendliness
A CRM system is only as good as its adoption rate. Look for an intuitive interface that your team will actually want to use. After all, there's no point in investing in a powerful system if it's so complicated that your staff avoid it like the plague.

2. Customisation
Your business is unique, and your CRM should reflect that. Ensure the system you choose can be tailored to your specific needs, whether that's custom fields, workflows, or reports.

3. Integration capabilities
Your CRM shouldn't exist in a vacuum. It needs to play nicely with your existing tools, from your email client to your accounting software. The more seamless these integrations, the more efficient your processes will be.

4. Scalability
While it's important to meet your current needs, don't forget to think about the future. Can the CRM grow with your business? Will it still be suitable when you've doubled or tripled in size?

5. Data management and analytics
In the age of big data, your CRM should be a goldmine of insights. Look for robust reporting and analysis tools that can help you make data-driven decisions.

6. Mobile accessibility
In our increasingly mobile world, the ability to access your CRM on the go is no longer a luxury—it's a necessity. A good mobile app or responsive design is essential.

7. Customer support
Even the best systems can have hiccups. When issues arise, you'll want reliable technical support and comprehensive training resources to get you back on track quickly.

8. Security features
With cyber threats on the rise, data protection is more important than ever. Ensure your chosen CRM has strong security measures and complies with relevant regulations.

Choosing the right CRM is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. By focusing on these eight key factors, you'll be well on your way to finding a system that not only meets your current needs but also supports your future growth.

In our event, we'll dive deeper into each of these factors, providing practical tips on how to evaluate them in potential CRM systems. Save your spot now!

 

Tailoring QuoteWerks to Your Industry: Maximising Efficiency and Relevance - Event 24/7

In today's competitive business landscape, having a sales quote solution that truly understands your industry can make all the difference. QuoteWerks, a versatile quoting software from Wizard Systems, offers robust customisation options that allow businesses across various sectors to streamline their quoting process. But how can you ensure you're making the most of these features for your specific industry?

Join us for an upcoming webinar on Wednesday 24th July at 2pm UK time, where we'll delve into the art of customising QuoteWerks to suit your unique business needs. Whether you're in IT, manufacturing, construction, professional services, or healthcare, this session will provide invaluable insights into optimising your quoting workflow.

During this 30-minute webinar, we'll cover:

1. Template Customisation: Learn how to create industry-specific quote templates that speak directly to your clients' needs. We'll show you how to incorporate relevant fields, sections, and industry-specific terms and conditions that will set your quotes apart.

2. Product Database Optimisation: Discover techniques for structuring your product catalogues in a way that makes sense for your industry. We'll explore setting up industry-specific pricing models and incorporating variable options and configurations.

3. Industry-Specific Integrations: Find out how to connect QuoteWerks with industry-standard software and specialised tools, enhancing your overall workflow and eliminating data silos.

4. Workflow Customisation: We'll demonstrate how to set up approval processes and quote-to-order stages that align with your industry's best practices, as well as how to automate industry-specific follow-ups.

 

By the end of this webinar, you'll have a clear understanding of how to tailor QuoteWerks to your industry's unique requirements, helping you to improve efficiency, relevance, and ultimately, your bottom line.

Don't miss this opportunity to transform your quoting process and gain a competitive edge in your industry. Register now to secure your spot!

 

We look forward to seeing you there and helping you unlock the full potential of QuoteWerks for your industry!