CRM software for Mac.....advice please

You could start with a Zoho CRM.

Soon you will find in this thread plenty of recommendations (as in so many similar threads in this forum).

I suggest you first write down what you expect from a CRM (and feel free to PM me these requirements)
I understand when you say "no idea where to start", but given that you ask for a CRM some idea must be in your mind what you expect or what you want to achieve.

During your research phase you should ignore the common (and here on 4N sometimes heated) debate about cloud vs non-cloud system. 

Keep in mind:

If a system A works for person B, this doesn't neccessarily mean it will work for you.
The price of a system does not tell you if it will work for you.
A system for eg salesmen may not work for a photographer.

The key for success lies in understanding your own workflow.

If you consider web based software then in theory it doesn't matter whether you use a MAC or a PC.

http://highrisehq.com/ is one we have helped companies with before.

Hi Jonathan

I can highly recommend Capsule. It is in the cloud so whether you're on a Mac or PC it doesnt matter. The great thing about it being in the cloud is that you can access your CRM whilst having a coffee in Starbucks (other coffee shops are available...).

Alison

The previous posts are correct. Find out what you want to achieve and then find the software that meets those requirements. As previously mentioned, Cloud based systems only need a browser, it is opersting system independent.

As you mentioned Mac specifically, the following link will enable you to download a free MAC based CRM system. It is basic but does most of what most people need. It is free and simple to use so downlioad it and have a go, that should give you an idea of what CRM is all about http://www.nchsoftware.com/crm/index.html 

Gary

If you don't mind me saying this (again): Don't research the market, research your workflow and your requirements.
You may well get good results if you do that in a hot drink outlet of your choice.

You may want to write down first why the combination of Apple's own Addressbook, the calendar software iCal, Apple Mail, the ToDo funtcion, the reminders don't work for you. Which bits do you need beyond that? Once you've found that out you have a much clearer picture.

I have a list of Mac CRM systems, but its way too early in this process  to even look at it.

Agreed. I have a similar view with Microsoft Outlook. With a manageable number of contacts, the basic software meets most needs. It is only when you have several thousand contacts and you are struggling to keep on top of it does the need for a CRM come into play. And, remember, it isn't the number of contacts you have, it is how many you are actively dealing with that determines whether it is manageable or not.

Gary

valid points ......and looking into it.... its as you say.... a place I can log who I've spoken too and when and what was discussed etc then setting a new date to follow up / report back or whatever was needed to do.

I swap between macbook & main mac and also to have this info via my phone (galaxy s2) that i can update on any of them. I use google calender to this effect so something that runs across all devices that i can use any at anyone time.

thanks Micheal / Gary ....

Cannot echo Michaels comments more! Always look at your requirements first and then source the system, there are pleanty out there!

Always bear in mind that the Cloud will be an advantage to you if you are wishing to work on the move :-)

This is just one aspect of the Cloud. It is one of the most crowed about aspects and it is also the least important - it is a simple job to set up your own private Cloud based around your existing, already purchased hardware. With your own private Cloud, based in your office, you use all the software you have already purchased and know exactly where all your files are ........... because nothing has changed. You use your existing user names and passwords, all the screens are familiar .... because nothing has changed. There is no learning curve.

Where the Cloud wins is where you want to concentrate on your core business and needing to be your own I.T. department detracts from this. The Cloud will give you the latest versions of software to use and provide support when it goes wrong. This is the main benefit of the Cloud, it moves non productive effort from the user to the centre where the expertise lay.

Gary

Hi Jonathon

As others have said, you need to work out what you need the system to do for you and your business.  This blog may help give you some ideas on what you should consider.

http://www.crmessentialsltd.co.uk/finding-the-right-crm-system

Happy to chat if you need any further advice.

Pam