There are a lot of moving parts in their business: they offer facility design services for martial arts studios and provide the materials to outfit the facilities. This means it’s essential to stay on top of every detail throughout the lifespan of a project.

Wanted: A User-Friendly QuickBooks CRM

At first, they tried using QuickBooks as a CRM — but this was “less than acceptable,” said Nick Robinson, who is responsible for FUJI Mats’ operations and sales. The QuickBooks interface was difficult to navigate and it wasn’t a scalable solution for keeping detailed notes.

Next, the team looked into some CRM options, but none of them was quite the right fit. Ideally, they wanted something affordable that could be tailored to their workflows. They also wanted a CRM with a real-time QuickBooks sync, but most systems out there couldn’t meet this requirement. 

“We were locked into Salesforce and hating it. It was large and cumbersome and did NOT work for our business. We also use QuickBooks Enterprise and had a terrible time finding a sync that would be instantaneous.”

The Solution: Method CRM

Eventually, their search led them to Method CRM — and they haven’t looked back since. Method’s real-time, two-way sync with all versions of QuickBooks offered the perfect solution for streamlining their order management.

Robinson explained that sometimes they need to look up a customer, enter an order and take payment in one fell swoop while on the phone. Luckily, this is no problem in Method; it’s easy to navigate from customer data to order entry in just a few clicks.

In other cases, they create an estimate in Method and convert it to an invoice later, then send the customer a link to pay through a self-serve portal. But no matter when or how an order is paid, all of the data syncs instantly from Method to QuickBooks.

The increased efficiency in their front-end operations has been such a game-changer that the team is planning to bring more of their business processes into Method.

“Method has streamlined just about every process that we have in our business, from writing orders, processing orders, sending POs and many other functions. The next step is fully integrating all of our operations and purchase orders so we’re a well-oiled machine from start to finish!”

The Power of a Custom CRM: A One-Page Experience for Customer Management

Beyond the deep QuickBooks integration, Robinson and his team saw another huge selling point in Method: it’s an infinitely customizable CRM. This means it can be tailored to suit the unique needs of any business.

For FUJI Mats, keeping detailed notes and knowing when to follow up on estimates are of the utmost importance. But with so many leads coming in, they need to be able to find this information quickly. Their ideal solution was a one-page experience for customer data — so they worked with Method’s customization experts to make this happen.

Before Customizing Method

Out of the box, a customer profile in Method displays basic contact and company information. Clicking the “New” links takes you to other screens where you can enter data that is linked to that customer. For instance, if you wanted to record notes about a phone call, you would create a new activity.

After Customizing Method

In FUJI Mats’ custom CRM, several convenient features have been added to the customer profile screen:

• Recent notes about the customer are displayed [1] and team members can easily add a new note right on this screen [2].
• Clicking the “Notify” button sends an email about the new note to an assigned team member [3].
• A list of the customer’s recent estimates is displayed [4].
• Team members can assign a follow-up date [5] to the customer, which ensures that potential sales never slip through the cracks.

By customizing their Method account, the FUJI Mats team created a CRM that’s perfect for their current process. And as their business evolves, Method can evolve along with them.

“Honestly, we never thought we’d find a CRM that could meet all of our needs and expectations (without spending hundreds of thousands of dollars) until Method. While other CRMs make you tailor your business to their system’s limitations, Method folded around our business and provided a platform that worked for all aspects of it. Impressive people, impressive CRM!”

About Method’s Customization Services

For small businesses, off-the-shelf technology rarely works perfectly off the shelf. That’s where Method’s dedicated team of customization experts comes in. They’ll work closely with you to truly understand your workflows and the barriers you’re facing. Then, they’ll build a custom solution that’s just right for you — while you focus on running your business. Learn more about Method’s customization services.

The post How a QuickBooks CRM Helped FUJI Mats Streamline Customer Management appeared first on Method.

The core purpose of a CRM (or customer relationship management) system is in the name: it helps businesses track important information about their customers. But that’s not all a CRM can do.

In fact, the right CRM system can truly become your all-in-one business management tool — as is the case with Method CRM. With its powerful QuickBooks integration and infinite customization potential, Method helps businesses create optimal workflows while effectively managing their customers.

To learn more about what Method CRM can do, check out the infographic below.

The post An Overview of Method CRM [Infographic] appeared first on Method.

What if you had a customizable CRM that could do it all? That’s what you get with Method CRM — the #1 automation tool for QuickBooks and Xero users. 

Out of the box, Method CRM gives you a strong CRM and then takes things one step further with the deep personalization it offers.

You’ll get into the key workflows that Method CRM users benefit from later in this article, but let’s start with the basics.

What is a CRM database?

A CRM database is a tool that businesses use to store, manage, and analyze customer data.

CRM stands for “customer relationship management”, and the database is a central location to  track customer details, including:

• Contact information.
• Purchase history.
• Communication logs.

A customizable CRM helps you provide better customer service and target your marketing efforts more effectively. By storing your customer data in a single platform, you can easily access and analyze the information you need to make informed decisions.

What is workflow automation in CRM?

CRM workflow automation is the automation of repetitive tasks and processes in a CRM system. Workflow automation is a powerful CRM feature that saves you time and improves efficiency. 

Here is an example of the value of CRM workflow automation from Method CRM user Cameron Fleming.

“We’ve cut down our order processing times by 20-30% and can find the information we need 66% faster than before. Method is the lifeline of everything that happens at HealthLinc Medical Equipment and lets us make 30% more deliveries each day.”

— Cameron Fleming, President of Operations at HealthLinc Medical Equipment.

With Method’s customizable CRM platform, you can automate:

• Sending follow-up emails.
• Creating invoices.
• Collecting payments.
• Managing leads.

By automating tasks like these, you free up your schedule to focus on higher-value tasks, such as nurturing customer relationships.

Benefits of CRM workflow automation

Now that you understand what workflow automation is, let’s dive into how it helps you and your business.

The key benefits of CRM workflow automation include the following:

• Save time: Let your employees focus on what matters by automating repetitive tasks.
• Improve operations: Reduce errors and costs by supporting your processes with technology.
• Enhance customer service: Provide a personalized experience for your customers with instant follow-up emails or appointment reminders.

How does a customizable CRM work?

The difference between a customizable CRM and a standard CRM is that it allows you to tailor the system to your specific needs. This can include custom fields, screens, and workflows that match your business’ specific processes.

For example, you might create custom fields in Method CRM to track additional customer information, such as preferred communication platforms or industry-specific details.

Below is a contact screen that’s been customized in Method to include a customer’s social media profiles

Go beyond CRM with Method

When you hear “customizable CRM” you probably think of minor tweaks — change a layout here, add a field there. 

And while those tweaks are certainly possible in Method CRM, that’s not all it can do.

The deeper truth is that Method CRM is built on a no-code platform — and this means it doesn’t have to be just a CRM.

Instead, you can build on this customizable CRM to create a multi-faceted business management tool.

Method CRM workflow automation examples

Two-way sync with QuickBooks and Xero

Method CRM users love its real-time, two-way, sync with QuickBooks and Xero. Here are the top reasons why:  

• No more time wasted on double data entry. 
• A secure way to share critical business information. 
• Your accounting file stays accurate and confidential. 

But don’t just take our word for it. Here’s what real Method CRM users say about this feature.

“Method is one of the best tools made specifically for QuickBooks users. With Method’s two-way, real-time QuickBooks sync, I’m confident that my accounting data is always up to date. If you’re already using QuickBooks, it’s a no-brainer to also use Method.”

— Kayla Prusinski, Advanced Certified QuickBooks Online ProAdvisor.

“Method CRM syncs great with Xero, all the data goes over without any problem. It has really good support systems in place and incredible troubleshooting articles when onboarding, which makes it easy. A great app to keep your information where it’s needed and makes your work life that much easier.”

— Amy DeVries, Hillsong Church Canada.

Lead management

With Method CRM, you can track leads through each stage of the sales process, from initial contact to closed deal.

The customizable CRM empowers you to manage your leads with features like online portals, automated email campaigns, and lead nurture reminders. This allows you to focus your efforts on the most promising leads to improve your chances of closing.

Plus, if you connect your Gmail or Outlook account with Method, you can easily view contact details and transactions right from your inbox.

Sales process automation

An automated sales process increases your customer satisfaction and loyalty while boosting sales for your business. From capturing leads to qualifying and nurturing them, Method CRM improves every step of your sales process.

For instance:

• Instantly get contact information from interested website visitors with web to lead forms. 
• Automatically trackin customer purchase history, so your sales teams can make personalized, upsell recommendations for each customer. 
• Get paid faster by auto-populating estimates and invoices with customer details from QuickBooks or Xero.

Contact and account management

No matter what industry you work in, you have customers to manage. And since Method is a CRM, it comes with an app for that. 

Here’s a preview of what it looks like:

With Method CRM, you can store and manage all your customer and prospect information in a single location. This includes:

• Contact information, such as names, addresses, and phone numbers.
• Detailed customer profiles, including preferences, purchase history, and communication history.
• Transaction data such as estimates and invoices. 

Method CRM also allows you to categorize contacts into groups, such as customers, vendors, and leads, for easy segmentation and targeting.

Customer support

With Method CRM, you can manage customer service tasks with online customer portals.

Thanks to its customizable CRM capabilities, your portal can be fully personalized to match your brand by:

• Adding your logo.
• Customizing the color scheme.
• Choosing which services to offer.

Here’s a preview of what’s possible with Method’s customer portals:

Why custom workflows are important

Customizable workflows are important because you can tailor them to meet your individual needs, and they help you simplify processes.

With a customizable CRM like Method CRM, you have the tools to create automation rules that follow your specific sales process. This ensures no tasks go overlooked and lets you focus on growth areas.

Additionally, customizing workflows based on your business needs will help you make the most of your available resources.

Popular custom workflows in Method CRM

The true power of Method CRM is apparent when you tailor the solution to your company’s unique needs.

Below are some of the most popular, customizable workflows Method customers use to grow their businesses with. 

Sales commission tracking

With Method CRM, you can simplify the entire sales commission tracking process by creating the commission calculator of your dreams. 

With Method CRM, you are in the driver’s seat. Control: 

• Exactly who can see sales performance. 
• Commission payout structure.  
• How commission payments will be made.

Another plus is that you can give your sales team a real-time view of their sales commissions.

E-signature capture

E-signatures make it easy for your customers to digitally sign documents and accept payment terms. Not to mention that it shortens your sales cycle to get you paid sooner.

One of the most useful customizable workflows that Method CRM offers is the ability for your customers  to electronically sign invoices, sales receipts, estimates, and other documents. See an example below!

Estimate approvals

Another one of Method CRM’s most popular features among QuickBooks users is the ability to create and share estimates from anywhere. 

You can set up Method CRM so your customers can approve estimates online by clicking a button or checking a box in their customer portal. You can then have Method CRM immediately notify your sales team so your prospective customer doesn’t have to wait to do business with you.

Recap: Take your CRM workflow automation to the next level with Method

Your business has needs that go beyond simple customer relationship management.

From automating your approval process to nurturing customers and collecting payment, there are many moving parts in your day-to-day operations. Method CRM is here to take these routine tasks off your plate.

If you want highly integrated and automated workflows, Method CRM and QuickBooks or Xero is an unbeatable combination.

Start your free trial of the #1 CRM for QuickBooks and Xero users!

Image credit: LinkedIn Sales Navigator via Pexels

The post How Method’s customizable CRM helps you take back control of your business appeared first on Method.

But the apps didn’t communicate, which meant redundant, time-consuming work for Bryan and the potential for inaccurate customer records. He knew he needed one system to act as a single source of truth. And, with a quick google search for a QuickBooks-integrated Construction CRM, Bryan found Method CRM.

During his free trial of Method, Bryan saw the value his team would experience centralizing customer Activities, creating Estimates from QuickBooks items, and converting Estimates into Invoices that get mirrored in QuickBooks in real-time.

But, it wasn’t until Bryan’s free customization session that he realized the possibilities for truly streamlining his day-to-day processes.

“The light really went on and Method’s value really sunk in during my free consulting session — Method could accommodate my ideas on how to simplify the process for my both me and my customer”. 

An Inefficient Contract & Estimate Process

Before his team can start work for a client, Bryan needs approval on their job estimate and signatures on a contract. But, the company’s estimate process had too many customer touch-points, involved double data entry, and created dependencies on the customer, which sometimes resulted in estimates getting lost along the way. The contract and estimate process took too long and slowed down the team.

Process Before:

1. Bryan created the contract/proposal in Microsoft Word.
2. Converted the word doc into a PDF.
3. Used Adobe to add signature fields to the PDF contract/proposal.
4. Sent the .pdf contract/proposal to the customer or lead via email.
5. Received the e-signatures from the client.
6. When the contract was accepted, Bryan created an invoice in Paypal and email it to the client.
7. The client would pay the invoice through PayPal.
8. Bryan would duplicate the invoice and payment to QuickBooks. 

A Streamlined Contract & Estimate Process

During his free customization session with a Business Solution Specialist, Bryan saw how he could have his ideal workflow by configuring his Method CRM account.

“The process of putting together a contract went from 45 minutes to less than 15 minutes. With everything together in one screen I just have to select what I need and email it out to the customer. It’s automated everything for me. It’s dummy proofed it for me”.

Process After Customizing Method:

1. Bryan builds an Estimate where pre-defined contract verbiage is added depending on the selected job type.
2. A unique link from Bryan’s email takes the customer to an online Method guest page where they review the Estimate and contract.
3. The customer approves the contract and Estimate by clicking the “Accept Estimate” button, which notifies Bryan by email and updates the “Accepted By” and “Accepted On” fields on the Estimate screen.

By customizing his Method account, Bryan has simplified the company’s contract and Estimate process into one CRM screen. 

“I can’t speak highly enough about Method and their team. The program is fantastic. It works out of the box and there is basically an unlimited number of customizations to do. And, my Business Solution Specialist, Farazeh, was amazing with the customization we did on the Estimate screen.”

About Method’s Customization Services

For small businesses, off the shelf technology rarely, if ever, actually works off the shelf. That’s where Method’s Business Solution Specialists stand apart. We’ll work closely with you to truly understand your business, and the barriers you’re facing, then develop a totally customized solution to solve your problems.

The post A Simplified Estimate Process for Allegro Design Co appeared first on Method.

The post Personalized Software for Small Businesses is Within Reach appeared first on Method.

“So many small business owners have told me they feel trapped by the limitations of a one-size-fits-all approach to business software,” said Method founder Paul Jackson. He added that they typically employ a combination of software and spreadsheets, which results in costly workarounds and double data entry. “When you’re running a business, your time is too valuable to be spent on so many unnecessary frustrations.”

Why do entrepreneurs put up with the headaches?
While some (37%) business owners cited a lack of IT or personnel expertise, the big stumbling block is the mistaken belief that customized solutions need to be expensive.

Nearly eight out of ten (77%) mentioned budgetary constraints as the reason they haven’t invested in personalized software, even though more than half (52 %) of those surveyed said it would probably lead to greater workflow efficiency.

That’s the bad news.

The good news is that Method gives small businesses personalized software solutions, such as the company’s flagship Method CRM. All Method solutions are mobile-friendly, completely customizable to ever-changing business needs, and sync easily with QuickBooks. Drag and drop tools make it easy to customize, and it is 100% code-free.

“Small businesses have a broad range of individual needs and operating procedures. A bowling alley is very different from a sole-practitioner graphic design firm, for instance,” said Avi Golan VP and GM, Intuit Developer Group. “The QuickBooks Online platform is designed so that it can be customized by and for small businesses. Thanks to integrations with partners like Method, small business owners benefit from a solution that is customized to fit their specific needs.”

Jackson believes that personalization is a growing trend, and the days of One-Size-Fits-All software are quickly coming to an end. “Business owners are starting to realize that customized software can be both affordable and easy to use. At Method, we believe in Your Work, Your Way, which means we want to help you work the way you want to work,” he said. “Our customers love it.”

Small businesses can now enjoy the personalized experience that was once only available to large corporations. Greater workplace efficiency means business owners can spend more time serving customers, rather than re-entering the same data over and over again. Clearly, businesses find Your Work, Your Way to be a lot more attractive than Take-It-Or-Leave-It or One-Size-Fits-All.

The post What does Your Work, Your Way mean for your business? appeared first on Method.