Is a Database important for my business?

Why do I need a Database?

 

As a Small Business Trainer and Consultant, I am asked this question alot.

Well, the most important reason is that this is where you:

– will keep your client data
– know when to follow up
– remember important aspects of their business – perhaps an anniversary

You need to keep in the know, to keep your client/s happy.

Ultimately, isn’t that what is keeping your business alive – your clients or customers?

Now, it is very difficult to know sometimes what database can work best for your business.  There are such a wide range of databases around and some only work on PC and some only on MAC – luckily some on both.

 

So the first questions you need to ask yourself before even beginning to look for a database to suit you are:

1. Am I working on MAC or PC – do I need to have access to both?
2. Can I afford to pay for database software, or should I look for something free?
3. What information do I need to capture – will I need a follow up reminder system?
4. Do I need to connect this to my newsletter database list?
5. Is important for me to capture my client information via my website?
6. How important is the layout to me?

There are more questions, but I have found that these are usually the most important.

Now, that you have asked yourself these questions and hopefully written down your answers!

Remember, when you do things in steps it is important to ensure that you write everything down so that you are ready for the next question.

 

So now, we have pulled together a list of some database options for you.

http://www.grubba.net/

Fully personalised, Grubba means 24/7 access to your data from any location in the world. And by using Grubba you always have an online backup of your data. In case of fire or burglary in your home or office your data remains secure.   Available for MAC and PC.

http://www.zoho.com/creator/online-database-software.html

The intuitive drag-and-drop interface combined with powerful database features makes Zoho Creator the most easy-to-use database software, available. It gives novice users the power of a database developer, to create online database applications on their own and share information about people, projects, finance, assets and more…

http://batchbook.com/

Customer Friendly, Batchbook is a social CRM which helps you build meaningful relationships with your best customers.  Integrates well with Mailchimp and accessible anywhere you are.  MAC, PC, Android.

http://highrisehq.com/

“Highrise does nearly everything a personal secretary might do except go out for coffee and pick up our dry cleaning.”, in a safe and secure environment.

http://www.salesforce.com/au/crm/editions-pricing.jsp

A range of solutions to suit budget and number of staff .
The above options are just some of many database platforms for you and your business.

The next step is for you to click through and see which one may suit you and your budget.  Also which layout you feel is more comfortable for you to work with.  We all respond differently to layouts, colours, text etc – so you need to be comfortable.

Now that you have sorted which database is preferable to you and your business, please stay tuned for the next instalment in our blog “Is a Database Important”…

 

Hazel Theocharous, Owner of Learn Grow Transform.  If you still have queries on what database may be best for your business, feel free to contact Hazel.