Why Write CRM Software from Scratch?

A quick scan of CRM-related tweets on Twitter usually reveals something like this:

Even with so many options for quality CRM software, some companies and developers still feel like they can get more bang for their buck by assigning internal staff to work on a totally original CRM system instead of hiring experienced vendors.

From my own experience, most of the companies that want custom CRM systems feel like existing software just "isn't them." (I once declined an RFP from a prospective client that absolutely refused to deal with any customer that had more than 22 characters in their address field, because it would blow up all of their mailing templates.)

In most cases, the drive for homebrew CRM software usually stems from staff members who want the benefits of customer relationship management tools, but can't afford them or won't budget them.

A few years ago, "build or buy CRM" was a legitimate question for most CIOs. Today, thanks to open source CRM suites and open-platform, pay as you go CRM solutions, companies don't have to reinvent the wheel to get what they need. Most CRM solutions now offer a great degree of customization, from special fields to unique style sheets. SaaS CRM systems let companies start out with minimal investment, allowing them to expand after a proof of concept. Companies determined to craft their own ultimate solution can still use open source code as a platform, shaving months from development time.

Instead of shooting for the "perfect" CRM and getting stuck in development for months or years, consider teaming up with an experienced vendor that can meet you halfway (if not more). The benefits of developing stronger relationships with customers far outweigh the frustration of dealing with that 23rd letter.