Tag Archive for: AI

8 Advanced Metrics to Measure the Success of Your Data Integration

You’ve taken the big leap and integrated your CRM and ERP systems, a smart move in today’s digitally-driven business world.

But here’s the crucial part: How do you know it’s really working for you?

In the journey of streamlining your business operations, it’s not just about setting things in motion; it’s about understanding the impact and continually optimizing for better results. This is where the real magic happens – measuring success and establishing KPIs.

Interestingly, data underscores the importance of this step: As 80% of respondents stated integration failures as the biggest reason for not being able to deliver their projects on time.

So, think of these metrics and KPIs as your business’s vital signs. Just as a doctor monitors key health indicators to keep you thriving, you need to keep a close eye on certain metrics to gain clarity on whether your integration efforts are paying off in terms of operational efficiency, financial performance, and customer engagement.

You might wonder, “What should I be measuring?” or “How do I translate these figures into actionable insights?”

These are vital questions. And answers to these are what we are going to find out together in the coming sections.


Advanced Success Metrics for Checking Effectiveness of CRM and ERP Integration

Data Integrity and Synchronization Accuracy:

To truly gauge the accuracy of your CRM and ERP integration, you need to dive into a detailed comparison of data sets from both systems. Start by extracting customer information from your CRM and match it against sales and financial records in your ERP.

The goal here is to identify any misalignments or errors.

Are the customer details consistently reflected in sales orders? Do payment records in your ERP correspond accurately with the customer interactions recorded in your CRM?

To systematically approach this, create a routine data reconciliation schedule. This could involve monthly audits where you randomly select and cross-check data entries across both systems. Utilize advanced data comparison tools, which can automatically identify and report discrepancies.

This proactive approach is particularly vital in sectors like finance or healthcare, where data accuracy is not just a matter of efficiency but also of compliance and risk management.

Workflow Automation Efficiency:

Measuring the efficiency gained from automating workflows between your CRM and ERP systems involves a granular analysis of time and resource utilization.

Begin by mapping out key processes such as lead-to-sale conversions or purchase order completions. How long did these processes take before integration, and what’s the time frame now? More importantly, assess the quality of outcomes – are there fewer errors in order processing? Is customer data more up-to-date and accurate?

Using a digital time-tracking tool, you can capture the time spent on each step of these processes. This data allows you to calculate the average time savings per process, giving you a tangible metric of efficiency improvement.

Additionally, consider the indirect benefits: employees freed from repetitive double data entry can focus on more strategic tasks, potentially driving innovation and growth.

For instance, in a manufacturing context, faster and more accurate processing of customer orders directly translates to improved production planning and inventory management. This not only enhances customer satisfaction but also optimizes your supply chain, leading to cost savings and increased profitability.

Customer Interaction Quality:

Delving into the quality of your customer interactions can provide pivotal insights into the effectiveness or failure of your CRM and ERP integration.

A crucial metric here is the average response time to customer queries. Has there been an improvement since you integrated your systems? This could be a sign that your customer service teams have quicker access to necessary information, enabling them to respond more promptly.

Another key indicator is the number of interactions required to resolve customer issues. A decrease in this number generally suggests that your integration is effectively providing comprehensive customer insights, facilitating quicker issue resolution. This directly impacts customer satisfaction – the fewer interactions needed, the more efficient and effective your service is perceived to be.

Customer satisfaction surveys are a goldmine of information. Pay close attention to comments about response times and problem-solving efficiency. Positive changes in these areas are often a direct result of a successful CRM and ERP integration.

Sales Funnel Metrics:

The impact of CRM and ERP integration on your sales funnel is a critical area to assess.

Key metrics include lead conversion rates, length of the sales cycle, and average deal size. Reflect on how these have shifted since integrating your systems.

Is there a noticeable shortening of the sales cycle? This can indicate that your sales team has quicker, more comprehensive access to customer data, enabling them to make informed decisions swiftly.

Monitor the progression of leads through the sales pipeline. A well-integrated system streamlines the transition from lead generation to closing, making tracking and nurturing leads more efficient. An increase in lead conversion rates or a larger average deal size can be strong indicators of this efficiency.

Financial Performance Indicators:

Finally, a thorough examination of your financial performance indicators can reveal much about the success of your CRM and ERP integration.

Cost savings from reduced manual labor and increased revenue from improved operational and sales processes are essential metrics. Assess the speed and efficiency of financial reporting and budgeting post-integration. Has there been a reduction in the time and resources required for these activities?

Evaluate changes in your profit margins.

Are you seeing a return on investment from your integration in the form of cost savings or revenue growth? This could be due to more accurate data leading to better decision-making, more efficient operations, or enhanced sales processes.

Predictive Analytics for Forecasting:


The key is to assess how the integration is enhancing your forecasting capabilities.

Begin by examining changes in the accuracy of your sales projections. Has there been a noticeable improvement in forecasting accuracy since integrating your CRM and ERP data? This improvement is a tangible indicator of successful integration, showcasing how combined data provides a more complete picture for forecasting.

Additionally, evaluate the impact of integrated data on predicting customer behavior and market trends.

Are your models now better able to anticipate shifts in customer preferences or market dynamics? This can be measured by comparing historical forecasts against actual outcomes, both pre- and post-integration.

A decrease in forecast errors signifies that the integrated system is providing deeper and more accurate insights.

In industries like retail, where customer demand can fluctuate rapidly, the accuracy of your inventory forecasts post-integration can be a clear metric.

Are you able to match inventory levels more closely with customer demand patterns?

Effective integration should lead to more precise inventory management, reducing incidents of overstock or stock shortages.

Churn Rate and Customer Lifetime Value (CLV):

Looking at your churn rate and Customer Lifetime Value (CLV) can give you valuable insights into how effective your integration has been.

Firstly, assess your churn rate post-integration.

Has there been a decrease in the rate at which customers stop doing business with you?

A decrease in this rate is a strong indicator that your integrated system is enabling better customer engagement and satisfaction. This can result from improved service delivery, more personalized customer experiences, and a deeper understanding of customer needs, all facilitated by the seamless flow of information between your CRM and ERP systems.

Similarly, evaluate the impact on CLV After integrating your systems, if your CLV is increasing, it indicates that your customers are staying with you longer and possibly spending more. This can be attributed to a more comprehensive understanding of customer needs and behaviors’, enabled by the rich integrated data.

Are you able to offer more personalized services or products? Are your marketing and sales efforts more targeted and effective? Is there a discernible improvement in how they perceive your brand?

By keeping an eye on these two metrics, you’ll get a clear picture of how well your integration is working in terms of keeping your customers around and increasing their value to your business.

Supply Chain Optimization:

When it comes to gauging the success of your CRM and ERP integration, assessing its impact on operational efficiency – broadly akin to supply chain optimization in a traditional sense – is crucial. This is especially relevant for industries with physical products, but the principles can apply to service-based or digital industries as well.

For businesses with a traditional supply chain, consider metrics like inventory turnover rates, order fulfillment times, and supply chain costs.

Has there been an improvement in how quickly inventory moves or in the efficiency of fulfilling customer orders? These improvements are indicative of a more streamlined and effective supply chain, often a direct result of integrating CRM and ERP systems.

In service or digital industries, “supply chain” optimization could refer to the flow and utilization of information or digital products.

Here, you might measure the efficiency of service delivery, the speed of information flow, or the time taken from customer inquiry to resolution. An integrated system that seamlessly connects customer data with operational processes can lead to faster response times and more efficient service delivery.

In essence, whether you’re shipping boxes or bytes, the big questions are: Are processes smoother and more synchronized? Is there a noticeable improvement in how your business responds to customer needs or market demands?

If things are flowing better and you’re keeping up with customer demands more effectively, then you’re seeing the real benefits of that big integration move you made.

Navigating Challenges in Metric Analysis

Analyzing the efficiency gains from your integrated CRM and ERP systems requires attention to detail, especially when dealing with obstacles that can skew your metrics.

Data Silos and Integration Issues:

Consider the challenge of data silos. Before integrating your CRM and ERP systems, data might have been isolated, making comprehensive analysis difficult. How did this separation affect the accuracy of your metrics, like customer engagement or sales efficiency? Were you getting the full story, or just pieces of it?

Data integration platforms like Commercient SYNC help bridge these gaps. By consolidating disparate data sources, these tools ensure you’re working with a complete and accurate dataset for measuring efficiency gains.

Interpreting Data Correctly:

Another hurdle is interpreting this integrated data correctly. With the vast amount of information now available, understanding what it all means for your business is key.

Misinterpretation can lead to incorrect assessments of important metrics, such as process efficiency or customer satisfaction.

Are you correctly gauging the improvement in your order processing times? Is your customer data reflecting the latest interactions accurately?

Integration platforms like Commercient SYNC aid in organizing and clarifying your data, making it easier to derive meaningful insights and measure the real impact of your integration efforts. They help you in succeeding and mastering your integration efforts.

Taking a Step Further In Your Journey


It’s important to recognize that the tools you use for integrating your systems can make a significant difference. Tools with features that match your business’s requirements would be the ones which allow you to reap all the benefits of a successful integration.

Here’s the thing: You might already be using some form of integration tools, but it’s worth considering an upgrade to more advanced data integration solutions like Commercient SYNC. 

Why?

Because while basic integration tools can merge data, platforms like Commercient SYNC go a step further. They not only integrate but also enhance the quality and reliability of the data you’re analyzing. This means your measurements for efficiency, such as workflow automation or data accuracy, become more precise and reflective of the true impact of the integration.

Think about those metrics we discussed – from workflow efficiency to data silos. A tool like Commercient SYNC can provide a more comprehensive, error-free view of these metrics, ensuring that you’re not just collecting data, but gaining actionable insights from it. This is crucial for continuously refining your processes and for making informed decisions that drive growth and innovation.

So, as your next step, evaluate your current integration tools. Are they giving you the depth and clarity you need?

If not, exploring options like Commercient SYNC could be a game-changer for your business, helping you to not only measure but also maximize the effectiveness of your CRM and ERP integration.

Whether you choose to enhance your toolset with solutions like Commercient SYNC or optimize your current systems, the goal remains the same: to ensure your business is as responsive, efficient, and customer-focused as possible.


If you want to start your journey through CRM/ERP integration success with SYNC, click here to contact us to schedule a free demo.

The Impact of AI on Customer Journey Mapping

Have you ever wondered how some brands seem to know exactly what their customers want? The secret often lies in how they map out every step of their customers’ journey.

But, what’s this customer journey map, exactly?

Each interaction, every feedback, and all transactions create a map that shows us how customers interact with a brand. 

Traditionally, creating these maps has been like piecing together a complex puzzle, challenging due to the vast amounts of data involved. However, there’s a change happening in how we read these maps. This change is powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI). So much so that the global AI market is expected to grow from USD 95.6 billion in 2021 to a staggering 1847.58 billion by 2030.

Because AI is not just a new tool in our kit; it’s a whole new way of seeing things. It takes the complex paths of customer journeys and makes them clearer, easier to understand. 

In this blog, we’ll see how AI is changing the way we map and understand customer journeys. We’ll look at its impact and how it’s making these journeys more insightful for businesses like never before.

The Evolution of Customer Journey Mapping

Customer Journey Mapping has been an essential part of business strategy for decades, evolving alongside advancements in marketing and management theory. It is driven by a desire to better understand the steps customers take from first encountering a brand to making a purchase.

The journey began with visionary thinkers like Philip Kotler, considered by many as the father of modern marketing, who emphasized the importance of understanding customer needs and experiences.

In its early days, Customer Journey Mapping was about connecting dots – from interest to purchase.

Simple yet insightful, these maps offered a glimpse into the customer’s world.

But as digital tools began to weave into our daily lives, these maps needed more. Customers were no longer just walking into stores or calling sales reps; they were clicking, sharing, and browsing, creating a web of digital interactions.

This multifaceted nature of customer interactions in the burgeoning digital landscape  brought us to a pivotal moment in the journey mapping saga.

We needed tools that could keep pace with the digital customer, tools that could dive into this new ocean of data and find meaning.

It’s in this context that Artificial Intelligence (AI) aims to bring a new dimension to Customer Journey Mapping. Pioneers in the field of AI and business intelligence, such as Andrew Ng and Tom Davenport, have been instrumental in pushing the boundaries of how AI can be used to enhance our understanding of customer behaviors and preferences

With AI, journey mapping is becoming more than a record of steps; it’s evolving into a dynamic narrative. AI doesn’t just track clicks and purchases; it looks for the why behind them. It’s about understanding the mood swings of the market, the hidden desires of customers, and the subtle signals that predict future trends.

Although AI in customer journey mapping is still in its nascent stages, its potential is vast. It’s not just about making sense of data; it’s about bringing a new dimension to how we interact with and respond to our customers. 

AI promises a future where businesses can understand their customers like never before, turning every step of their journey into an opportunity for deeper connection and more meaningful engagement.

AI Technologies in Customer Journey Mapping

Incorporating AI into Customer Journey Mapping brings several key technologies into play, each contributing uniquely to a deeper understanding of customer behaviors.

Machine Learning: Imagine a computer algorithm that can sift through your customer data, learning as it goes. This is what machine learning does. It spots trends like, perhaps, noticing that customers who buy a particular product often return within a month to purchase an accessory. These insights are invaluable for customizing marketing strategies.

Natural Language Processing (NLP) shifts the focus to the words customers use. Whether it’s feedback on social media or reviews on your website, NLP analyzes this text to gauge sentiments.

For example, if customers frequently mention “easy to use” when talking about a product, you can use this insight to write your next ad content. And because NLP brings such benefits to the table, it is estimated that the NLP market would reach USD 144.9 billion in 2032.

Predictive Analytics brings the future into the present.

This involves using statistical algorithms and machine learning techniques to identify the likelihood of future outcomes based on historical data. It’s about anticipating what customers might do next.

If a pattern emerges showing that decreased engagement leads to customers unsubscribing from services, you can proactively reach out to re-engage them before they leave.

In the context of Real-Time Data Processing, immediacy is key. This is where data integration tools like Commercient Sync shine because they can seamlessly blend your data from various sources to allow instant responses.

For instance, if a customer abandons their online shopping cart, an immediate follow-up email with a personalized offer might be just the thing you can do to complete the sale.

Lastly, Data Visualization turns numbers and data points into visual stories. It could be a chart showing the most common paths your customers take on your website before making a purchase, highlighting areas where customers spend the most time or often drop off.

Such visual insights make it easier to identify which parts of the website are performing well and which need tweaking.

Unlocking Advanced Benefits with AI in Customer Journey Mapping

Understanding and Anticipating Your Customer’s Needs:

Think about how you can use AI to predict what your customers might need next. For instance, if your customers regularly buy certain items, AI can analyze this pattern and suggest when to send them reminders or special offers. This proactive approach can make your customers feel understood and valued.

Making Your Marketing Efforts Hit the Mark:

AI can help you understand your customers’ interests more accurately. Let’s say you notice a lot of your customers are browsing fitness gear. You can use AI to create targeted ads for these products, increasing the likelihood of catching their attention and boosting sales.

Providing Instant Support When Your Customers Need It Most:

Imagine a customer hesitating at their online shopping cart. AI can immediately detect this and offer help, maybe through a chatbot or a timely discount. This quick response can make a big difference in turning browsers into buyers.

Personalizing Shopping Experiences for Your Customers:

Use AI to tailor the shopping experience based on your customers’ preferences. If you find that a group of your customers often chooses eco-friendly products, you can highlight these products for them, making their shopping experience more personalized and enjoyable.

Guiding Your Business Decisions With Data:

AI doesn’t just process data; it gives you insights for smarter decision-making. For example, if your customers engage more with video content than text, AI will highlight this trend, suggesting that investing more in video content might be a good move for your business.

Inspiring New Product Lines Based on Customer Trends:

 AI can alert you to emerging trends and interests among your customers. If you see a growing interest in home automation products, this could be your cue to explore offering these products, keeping your business ahead of the curve.

Practical Examples and Case Studies of AI in CRM

The integration of AI in CRM systems like Zoho, HubSpot, and Salesforce is not just an upgrade – it’s a revolution in how customer relationships are managed and nurtured.

Zoho’s AI Assistant, Zia: Zoho has made strides with Zia, its AI assistant. Zia can analyze customer data to predict sales trends and even suggest the best time to contact a lead.

Imagine a scenario where Zia notifies you that certain leads are most responsive in the early afternoon, allowing your sales team to optimize their outreach efforts for better results.

HubSpot’s AI-Powered Content Assistant: HubSpot’s AI integration goes a step further with its Content Assistant, which helps in creating more effective marketing content.

Let’s say you’re working on email campaigns; the Content Assistant can suggest the most engaging subject lines or content adjustments based on past customer interactions, ensuring your messages resonate more with your audience.

Salesforce’s Einstein GPT: Salesforce revolutionizes customer interaction with Einstein GPT. This tool can analyze customer data to provide personalized recommendations.

For example, if a customer frequently looks at sports equipment, Einstein GPT can suggest sending them targeted offers or content related to sports gear, enhancing personalization and engagement.

These examples demonstrate how AI in CRM systems transforms customer data into actionable insights, enabling more personalized and efficient customer interactions.

Explore the transformative impact of AI in CRM systems like Zoho, HubSpot, and Salesforce.

By harnessing the power of AI, CRM platforms are not just managing customer relationships; they’re anticipating needs, personalizing interactions, and driving business growth through deeper insights.

Conclusion: Enhancing Your CRM and Customer Journey with AI

The use of Artificial Intelligence in CRM systems, as seen with Zoho, HubSpot, and Salesforce, is changing how we connect with customers. It brings a deeper understanding and personal touch to customer interactions.

But there’s more to enhancing your CRM with AI. The right data integration tools play an important role. That’s where Commercient Sync comes in. It helps you combine data from different sources into one single source of truth, making sure your AI tools have the full picture. This means better predictions and more relevant customer insights.

This combination leads to more accurate predictions and deeper insights into customer behaviors.

With AI and effective data integration like Sync, you’re not just keeping up; you’re moving ahead. You’re making every customer interaction more meaningful and driving your business forward.

Interested in seeing how Commercient Sync can work with your AI-driven CRM? Discover the possibilities for your business today.


If you want to start your journey through CRM/ERP integration success with SYNC, click here to contact us to schedule a free demo.

Is Your Data Integration Failing You? What Can You Do About It

In the age of digitization, businesses are increasingly relying on robust data ecosystems to drive their operations.

Key components of this ecosystem are Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) and Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems. These platforms serve as the backbone of a company’s operational and customer data management respectively.

However, when these systems fail to effectively communicate and integrate, it can trigger a domino effect of operational problems that can be detrimental to your business’s performance.

The failure of data integration between ERPs and CRMs, often known as ‘data silos,’ can give rise to a plethora of issues that can severely impede your business’s efficiency, accuracy, and profitability.

For example, inconsistencies in data across these platforms can result in flawed business analytics, which can then lead to misguided strategic decisions.

Addressing such integration issues and more are absolutely essential because it will enable you to achieve your business goals sooner.

Let’s understand in more detail…

Why are Integration Systems Crucial for Modern Businesses?

Creating Cohesive Conversations with Integration

Imagine each of your business systems as a unique language. Your CRM speaks ‘Customerese,’ focusing on sales, marketing, and customer service data.

On the other hand, your ERP communicates in ‘Operationese,’ dealing with finance, inventory, and supply chain information.

However, for your business to thrive, these ‘languages’ must converge and create a ‘lingua franca’—a common, comprehensible language that bridges the gap and ensures a fluid exchange of information.

That’s where integration systems come into play.

It provides a platform for your ERP and CRM systems to ‘talk’ to each other, synchronizing data and processes across your business.

This data integration enables you to have a 360-degree view of your operations and customers, paving the way for informed decision-making and strategic planning.

The High Stakes of Data Synchronization

Without effective data synchronization, you might be dealing with outdated, inconsistent, or even erroneous data across your systems.

Think of data synchronization as the conductor of an orchestra, ensuring all sections perform in harmony, creating a synchronized, beautiful symphony. The same principle applies to your business: harmonized data leads to coherent insights, seamless operations, and a holistic understanding of your customers and processes.

Recognizing a Failing Integration System: Are You Overlooking the Warning Signs?

In the intricate dance of modern business, each operation, each transaction, each decision is a calculated step. The partner leading this dance?

An effective integration system that ties together your ERP and CRM platforms.

However, a failing system can disrupt this dance, turning harmony into chaos.

Decoding the Warning Signs: Illuminating the Hidden Patterns

A failing integration system often operates like invisible ink, revealing its signs only to a discerning eye. Understanding these unique indicators can save your business from spiraling into the vortex of inefficiency:

  • Batch Processing Over Real-Time Integration:

Imagine sending a letter by postal mail instead of an instant message.

Sounds outdated, right?

That’s what batch processing feels like in today’s fast-paced digital world. If your integration system isn’t delivering data in near-real-time, you’re dealing with outdated information, and it’s a sign your integration system may be faltering.

  • Data Overwriting With Each Integration:

Consider writing a book, but every time you sit down to write, you find the previous chapters erased. Frustrating, isn’t it?

If your integration system is overwriting data every time it syncs, you’re losing valuable historical data, compromising your analytics and forecasting abilities.

  • Lack of Bi-Directional Sync:

Picture a phone conversation where you can hear your friend, but they can’t hear you.

This one-sided conversation feels incomplete, much like a unidirectional data flow. A failing integration system might struggle with bi-directional data synchronization, limiting the effectiveness of your data sharing.

Implications: The Domino Effect on Your Business

  • Delayed Decision-Making:
    Imagine planning a road trip, but your GPS updates your location every hour instead of every second.

    Not so helpful for making those crucial turns, right?

    That’s what batch processing does to your business. It slows down decision-making, as you’re always relying on outdated data.
  • Compromised Business Analytics:
    Think about a jigsaw puzzle. Without all the pieces, can you see the complete picture? If your integration system is overwriting data, it’s as if you’re losing puzzle pieces with each sync, skewing your business analytics and impairing your forecasting abilities.
  • Incomplete Customer View:
    Imagine trying to paint a portrait with only half the colors.

    It will never fully capture the subject.

    Similarly, a lack of bi-directional sync can leave you with a fragmented view of your customers, hampering your customer service and relationship management.

Commercient SYNC—The Lifeline for Your Integration System

When the threads that bind your ERP and CRM systems start to unravel, it’s time to bring in the experts.

Enter Commercient SYNC—a powerful solution to all your integration woes.

With an arsenal of unique features, this cost effective revolutionary tool is designed to tackle common failures and rejuvenate your integration system, setting it apart from other platforms.

An Overture to Commercient SYNC: Redefining Integration

As you tread the path of digital transformation, Commercient SYNC becomes your trusted companion.

Think of it as a bridge, a conduit that seamlessly connects your ERP and CRM systems, ensuring smooth data flow and reducing your dependence on batch processing. But it doesn’t stop there.

This platform goes the extra mile to eliminate the hassles of manual data entry, syncing your data in near real-time.

Its flexible, cloud-based nature allows you to adapt and scale your integration needs as your business evolves, ensuring you only pay for what you need, when you need it.

Isn’t it time you experienced integration that keeps pace with your needs?

The Power of Commercient SYNC: Turning the Tables on Common Failures

Integration failures can be daunting. But with Commercient SYNC, you gain a platform that’s not just reactive, but proactive. Let’s unveil the distinctive features that make this tool your knight in shining armor:

  • Near Real-Time Data Synchronization: Gone are the days of waiting for batch updates. Commercient SYNC offers near real-time data synchronization between your ERP and CRM systems, keeping your decisions in sync with the latest information.

What’s more, you have the flexibility to configure this feature when it suits your business, allowing you to manage costs effectively.

  • Preservation of Historical Data: Unlike platforms that overwrite data with every sync, Commercient SYNC respects your historical data. It ensures that every piece of information is preserved, enriching your business analytics and strategic decisions.
  • Bi-Directional Data Flow: Commercient SYNC believes in equal communication. It facilitates bi-directional data flow, ensuring both your ERP and CRM systems are on the same page, offering a comprehensive view of your business operations and customer interactions.

Standing Out in the Crowd: The Commercient SYNC Advantage

What truly makes it a standout solution is its focus on enhancing user experience, reducing manual labor, and its ability to adapt to your growing business needs.

Choosing Commercient SYNC isn’t just about selecting an integration platform—it’s about investing in a cost-effective partner that grows with you, streamlining your operations, and propelling your business towards a future of seamless, adaptable integration.


Making Data Work for You: The Integration Approach

In the 21st century, we find ourselves navigating the tumultuous seas of data, waves after relentless waves crashing against our technological vessels. There is no island of refuge in sight, only an unending ocean of fragmented, isolated data points. But what if we could calm these chaotic waters?

That’s where data integration comes in.

A savior that turns this data onslaught into a harmonious symphony of insights and an organized, understandable, easy to use pattern.

This data “dance” is becoming a popular trend, with more and more businesses across the world adopting it to get a better view of their operations.

In fact, the trend is picking up such speed that, according to Grand View Inc., a market research firm based in California, the data integration market is projected to reach a whopping USD 29.21 billion by 2030.

With this projection in mind, let’s introduce an exciting collaboration ready to surf this swelling wave. Commercient, a global leader in data integration solutions, and Rede Corporativa, a top-notch provider of Zoho CRM services in Brazil, have teamed up.

This partnership combines global know-how and local insights.

Together, Commercient and Rede Corporativa are preparing to tackle the data challenges in Brazil and beyond. This collaboration is not only about navigating the world of data but reshaping it, making the chaotic data landscape a simpler and more manageable place.

Let’s Understand In Detail How Data Integration Helps In Making Things Easier For You –

Embracing Data Integration: Your Route to Simplicity

Unleashing the Potential of Integration

Integration, at its core, is the act of bringing together separate components into a single system. It sounds straightforward, right? But its impact is profound. The magic lies in the simplicity it brings into your daily digital interactions.

Data integration brings together disparate data, whether it’s from different departments within an organization or different digital environments.

Imagine you use several software applications for various tasks: an email client, a project management tool, a customer relationship management platform, a productivity suite, and perhaps even more. Each of these tools has its own database and processes data in its unique way.

Without integration, you’d need to navigate each application separately, which can be inefficient and time-consuming. Data integration resolves this by merging data from these various sources into a single, unified system, giving you a comprehensive view and control over your entire data universe.

Saving Time: The Gift of Integration

How many times have you toggle between different apps or software, searching for a crucial piece of information?

Whether you were hunting for an old email, trying to recall a client conversation, or analyzing product performance, the lack of an integrated data system can cost you significant time.

Data integration can streamline these processes by bringing all information under one roof. Instead of spending precious minutes or even hours sifting through various systems, you can simply tap into your integrated data system to get the information you need almost instantaneously.

The old adage “time is money” is particularly poignant when it comes to managing data.

And Commercient and Rede Corporativa understand this, offering solutions that streamline data processes, reducing the time spent trawling through isolated data pockets.

The Big Picture: Seeing Clearly with Integrated Data

Integration doesn’t just save time; it also gives you a clear, comprehensive view of your data landscape.

Data integration allows you to see the whole picture instead of just fragments of it.

Imagine trying to understand a storyline by reading random chapters from a book – you’d likely end up confused.

Similarly, trying to understand your data landscape from isolated chunks can result in incomplete insights.

But when your data is integrated, you see everything in its entirety.

This makes it easier to identify trends, patterns, and relationships, allowing you to understand your data landscape in a more meaningful way.

Ease of Decision-Making: From Chaos to Clarity

Integration doesn’t just make things easier; it makes you smarter, more informed.

Data-driven decision-making is becoming the norm in both personal and professional contexts.

However, the accuracy of such decisions depends on the quality and comprehensiveness of the data at hand. Data integration supports this by amalgamating all the relevant data, which allows you to have a more accurate and complete understanding of the subject.

Instead of making assumptions based on fragmented data, you can rely on a single, integrated source of information to guide your decisions.

Embracing the Integration Journey

Data integration isn’t a one-and-done process.

It’s a journey that adapts and evolves with your needs and circumstances.

As you incorporate new tools into your workflow or as your data requirements change, your data integration process must adjust accordingly. In this context, data integration becomes an ongoing commitment to efficiency and adaptability.

Integration and Automation: A Power Duo

Remember those repetitive tasks that you carry out on a daily basis?

Integration can automate these tasks, not only saving you time but also reducing the chance of errors.

Integration lays the groundwork for automation by linking systems and data flows together.

Once integrated, repetitive data handling tasks such as data entry, migration, and extraction can be automated, reducing the risk of human error and freeing up your time for more complex, creative tasks. This can lead to improved productivity and more reliable data handling.

And in the heart of São Paulo or on the golden sands of Rio, Brazilian businesses, like others globally, can benefit immensely from automation.

Integration and automation are like samba and bossa nova—distinct, but harmonious when combined.

Unity in Diversity: How Integration Facilitates Collaboration

Working on a team often means everyone uses their preferred tools and platforms, but this can lead to data silos where valuable information is stored separately, creating hurdles for effective collaboration.

Data integration can solve this by creating a unified platform where everyone has access to the same data, fostering more efficient and transparent teamwork.

Unbounded Accessibility: Your Data Anywhere, Anytime

In today’s increasingly digital and mobile world, having access to your data wherever and whenever you need it is crucial.

 Data integration allows for this kind of flexibility.

When data from various sources is combined into a single, cloud-based platform, you can access it from any device with an internet connection, making remote work or mobile operations a seamless experience.

This opens up new opportunities for productivity, ensuring that no matter where you are or what device you’re using, you can engage with your data effectively and make well-informed decisions.

The Scalability Quotient: Growing Along with Your Data

As your business or project expands, the volume of data you handle will likely grow.  

You might incorporate more data sources, handle larger datasets, or need to process data more frequently.

The beauty of an integrated data system is that it can scale with your needs. Integration solutions are built to handle varying data loads, meaning they can accommodate growth without compromising on performance.

So whether you’re dealing with a small data set today or massive data influxes tomorrow, data integration ensures that you’re always ready.

So as your data grows, integration grows with it.

The Fort Knox of Data: Integration and Security

In the era of cyber threats and data breaches, securing your data is more important than ever.

Having all your data in one place doesn’t just make it more accessible to you—it also makes it easier to secure.

An integrated data system can be easier to secure because it creates fewer points of vulnerability.

Instead of implementing security measures for each separate data source, you can focus on securing a single, integrated system. This unified approach to data security can lead to robust protection that shields your valuable data from potential threats.

The Financial Edge: Economic Benefits of Integration

While integrating your data might require an upfront investment, the long-term benefits often outweigh these initial costs.

Think about the time saved when all your data is easily accessible from a single point.

Consider how the reduction in errors, thanks to automated data handling, translates into cost savings.

Reflect on the impact of improved, data-driven decision-making on your business’s bottom line. All these benefits contribute to a strong return on investment for data integration.

What’s Next?

Now that you’re aware of the vast landscape of possibilities data integration presents; it’s time to take a closer look at your business operations and identify areas where data integration could streamline processes, boost productivity, enhance decision-making, and ultimately contribute to your bottom line.

Consider where your data is currently siloed and how bringing it together might reveal insights and opportunities you hadn’t recognized before.

Because: remember, the power of data integration lies in its ability to provide a unified view of diverse information, which can significantly enhance your strategic capabilities.

In the end, Data Integration is a journey.

It’s a journey from data chaos to data clarity, from fragmentation to unity, and from insight to foresight.

But it’s a journey you don’t have to take alone.

With Commercient’s global expertise in Data Integration and Rede Corporativa’s deep understanding of the Brazilian market and a strong hold on Zoho CRM, this journey becomes a collaborative venture.

A venture in which data integration is not just a destination, but a path to an exciting world of new possibilities.

Let’s stride forward on this path together, eager to conquer the uncharted territories of our data-driven futures.


SugarCRM and Acumatica ERP Integration by Commercient: What You Need to Know

In the rapidly evolving business landscape, standing still is the same as moving backwards.

You understand this.

You’re always on the lookout for cutting-edge solutions that not only keep pace with changes but also drive progress forward. You recognize the power of technological innovation to streamline operations, foster growth, and ultimately, shape the future of your business.

It’s not about joining the race; it’s about defining the path.

You are a trailblazer, a leader who’s ready to harness the potential of digital transformation, and we’re here to fuel that journey.

We have something new and exciting to share, a solution that can redefine your operational efficiency and productivity. Prepare to usher in a new era of seamless synergy with Commercient SYNC’s latest integration listing in the SugarCRM marketplace – the dynamic integration between SugarCRM and Acumatica ERP.

Let’s delve into how this new tool can empower your business to reach new heights.

A Leap Forward: Commercient’s Latest Integration

Meet the new paradigm in business solutions – Commercient SYNC integration of SugarCRM and Acumatica ERP.

Picture this: a seamless unison of two dominant platforms, each a leader in its respective field.

SugarCRM, a front-runner in customer relationship management, and Acumatica ERP, a standout in enterprise resource planning. Together, they present a compelling, unified platform that’s more than the sum of its parts.

Bridging the Gap Between CRM and ERP

What sets this integration apart is its unique ability to bridge your CRM and ERP systems. Instead of merely co-existing, imagine these systems communicating fluidly, sharing data, and insights without any manual intervention.

With this integration, you don’t have to imagine – this is your new reality.

A Distinctive Edge: Breaking Away From the Norm

While most integrations provide a one-way transfer of data or limit the types of data that can be shared, Commercient’s offering dares to challenge the status quo. It enables a bi-directional flow of critical business data between your SugarCRM and Acumatica ERP, eliminating silos and barriers to smooth, uninterrupted data sharing.

Why is This Revolutionary?

It’s simple.

This integration takes two powerful tools and connects them seamlessly, allowing real-time information sharing and process efficiency like you’ve never seen. All your necessary data is at your fingertips, right when you need it.

Manual, time-consuming data transfer?

A thing of the past.

Now, you have more time to focus on strategic initiatives for business growth.

The Pathway to Integration: A Dance of Two Systems

Welcome to the world of Commercient SYNC, where SugarCRM and Acumatica ERP unite to propel your business forward.

Stage 1: Setting Up the Connection

The first step of this process involves creating a secure link between SugarCRM and Acumatica ERP.

It’s like introducing two old friends, setting up a communication pathway between them.This connection is crucial as it serves as the highway for your data to move back and forth.

Stage 2: Starting the Data Journey: Merging Information from Acumatica ERP to SugarCRM

Once our systems shake hands and the connection is firm, we begin transferring data.


In the first phase, Commercient SYNC starts by transferring all the valuable information from your Acumatica ERP to SugarCRM.

Important details like accounts, contacts, invoices, inventory, shipping addresses, products, and price books are all transferred seamlessly. With this data at your disposal, managing customer relationships becomes more efficient and effective.


And this process is carried out meticulously to ensure data integrity.

Stage 3: Round-Trip to SugarCRM

Our journey isn’t one-way.

In the second phase, we turn the tables. Commercient SYNC now brings new accounts, new contacts, and other essential information from SugarCRM back to Acumatica ERP, version 6.0 or higher.

The result?

Both systems are continuously updated, giving you a complete, up-to-date view of your business operations.

Stage 4: Personalizing Your Integration: Custom Control: Your Data, Your Rules

Can you decide what data to SYNC?

Absolutely.

Commercient allows you to control the type of data you want to transfer. You can filter data, perform sub-queries, and cross-table and cross-database sub-queries to set the rules. And yes, you can also map custom tables or views.

This means you maintain the integrity of relationship mapping and efficient syncing methodologies, while still having the freedom to control what data goes where. It’s your data, and you’re in control.

Stage 5: Keeping the SYNC Alive

The last stage is continuous syncing. Our integration isn’t a one-off event; it’s an ongoing dialogue between your systems. Changes made in one system are automatically updated in the other, ensuring seamless operation.

Integration: More Than a Technical Process

The integration between SugarCRM and Acumatica ERP through Commercient SYNC is more than a technical process; it’s a step towards the future.

It’s the bridge connecting your systems, the dance of data that breaks down silos, and the tool that streamlines your operations. With Commercient SYNC, integration becomes innovation, driving your business towards new horizons.

Commercient’s Integration: A Game Changer

This latest addition to the SugarCRM marketplace is more than just an integration; it’s a game-changer.

Here’s the tool you need to streamline operations, make smarter decisions, and stay ahead of the curve.

Embrace the power of seamless integration with Commercient’s SugarCRM and Acumatica ERP blend and redefine your business’s potential.

Your journey to unmatched efficiency starts here.

Your Next Step: Embrace the Change

Visit the SugarCRM marketplace and make Commercient’s latest integration a part of your digital arsenal. If you have any questions or need more information, our team at Commercient is always ready to guide you.

Remember, the path to progress is paved with the bricks of innovation.

This integration could be the next brick for your business.

In the ever-evolving world of business, it’s not just about surviving the race; it’s about setting the pace.

So why wait?

Make the leap, embrace the integration, and let’s redefine what’s possible together. Call (844) 282-0401 or click here to send a message.

Welcome to the future of business efficiency!


The Future is Here: Exploring AI in HubSpot, Salesforce, and Zoho CRM Systems

Welcome to the future, where AI doesn’t just organize your data – it knows your customer better than you do!

In the dynamic landscape of modern business operations, the advent of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has proven to be transformative. Its integration into numerous domains has reshaped the conventional methods of operation, particularly within the realm of Customer Relationship Management (CRM).

AI within CRM does not merely serve as an automated system for data organization.

Instead, it acts as an intelligent agent capable of predicting customer needs, providing real-time insights, and conducting tedious tasks automatically, all while operating tirelessly round-the-clock.

Notably, not all AI integrations are identical – the implementation, capabilities, and impact differ based on various factors such as the underlying technology, application context, and the specific CRM platform.

The AI Realm

Understanding AI and CRM

Artificial Intelligence, or AI, refers to computer systems or machines that mimic human intelligence. This includes learning (the acquisition of information and rules for using the information), reasoning (using the rules to reach approximate or definite conclusions), and self-correction.

When AI intersects with Customer Relationship Management (CRM), we’re dealing with systems that don’t just passively store and manage customer data but actively analyze, learn from, and utilize this information to improve business operations.

In essence, AI-enabled CRM systems can comprehend complex data, learn patterns, predict trends, and make decisions, much like a human brain would, albeit at a much faster rate and with potentially higher accuracy.

The AI Revolution in CRM

The impact of AI on CRM has been nothing short of revolutionary. Let’s consider its influence across two key areas: customer service and marketing strategies.

In the sphere of customer service, AI allows for a more personalized approach. By analyzing a customer’s interaction history, AI can predict their needs, preferences, and potential problems before they even surface. This can translate to customized recommendations, proactive service, and a smoother customer experience. Think of it as having a personal assistant for each of your customers, one that knows what they want before they even do.

Meanwhile, in the realm of marketing strategies, AI opens the door to advanced data analysis and prediction models. It can process vast amounts of data to uncover trends and patterns that would be impossible for humans to discern manually.

This empowers businesses to fine-tune their marketing efforts, optimize their sales process, and make more informed decisions. In other words, AI can turn a mountain of seemingly random data into a roadmap towards successful marketing campaigns and sales strategies.

Unveiling the AI Troika – HubSpot, Salesforce, and Zoho

A. Journey to the Hub of Success – HubSpot

Content Assistant: HubSpot’s AI-powered Content Assistant offers an advanced way to generate impactful content.

This intelligent tool integrates with HubSpot’s product suite, enabling users to switch between manual and AI-led content creation.

With the capability to produce copy for various content types – from blogs and social media posts to marketing emails – the Content Assistant enhances both content quality and creation efficiency.

ChatSpot: The ChatSpot bot represents another significant AI integration within HubSpot’s CRM system.

This conversational bot is designed to maximize productivity for sales, marketing, and service professionals. With chat-based commands, users can rapidly execute tasks in HubSpot.

From creating new contacts to bypassing the need for manual data entry, ChatSpot transforms the CRM experience, delivering speed, convenience, and increased operational efficiency.

B. Sailing with the Force – Salesforce

Einstein GPT: Salesforce enhances its CRM capabilities with the innovative Einstein GPT.

As an embedded intelligence layer within the Lightning Platform, Einstein GPT brings AI technologies to every workspace, empowering users with smart tools right where they work. It provides a robust set of platform services, allowing admins and developers to build smarter apps and customize AI to meet unique business needs.

By enabling customization, Salesforce ensures that its AI tool is adaptable, personalized, and responsive to individual business requirements.

C. Zooming Past with Zoho

Zia: Zoho’s Zia is an AI companion that redefines CRM management.

Equipped with advanced AI capabilities, Zia performs a multitude of tasks intelligently. These include retrieving necessary information, taking dictated notes, predicting the outcome of sales activities, identifying anomalies, and automating mundane tasks.

By managing these tasks, Zia frees up time for users to concentrate on strategic decision-making and customer engagement.

This multifaceted functionality transforms Zoho’s CRM from a simple management tool into a powerful operational asset.

The Ultimate Showdown – HubSpot, Salesforce, or Zoho?

CriteriaHubSpotSalesforceZoho
Ease of UseHubSpot’s AI tools are seamlessly integrated and intuitive, requiring a minimal learning curve.Einstein GPT is accessible within the usual workspace, but may require technical knowledge for advanced use.Zia is designed as a user-friendly companion that helps manage CRM tasks with minimal technical expertise.
CustomizationHubSpot offers some flexibility (i.e., toggling between manual and AI content creation) but lacks extensive customization.Salesforce’s Einstein GPT allows high-level customization aligning AI functionalities with unique business needs.Zia provides a wide array of functionalities but lacks the extensive customization options seen in Salesforce.
Predictive AnalysisHubSpot’s AI contribution to predictive analysis is not as significant as Zoho or Salesforce.Einstein GPT leverages vast data sets for predictive analysis, providing valuable business insights.Zia stands out with its ability to predict sales activities’ outcomes and detect anomalies, aiding in trend anticipation and pre-emptive issue resolution.

The Takeaway

The incorporation of AI into CRM is not just an upgrade – it is a fundamental shift in how businesses interact with and understand their customers.

  • Making the Choice

Selecting the right AI-enhanced CRM is a task that should be rooted in your company’s unique needs. Understanding the requirements, technical capabilities, and strategic objectives of your organization is critical to making an informed decision.

  • Future Gazing

    As we delve deeper into the digital era, the question no longer revolves around whether AI will revolutionize CRM. That revolution is already underway. The real question is whether your business is prepared to embrace this change.

As AI continues to permeate CRM, its ability to predict trends, personalize customer interactions, and automate tasks will only become more sophisticated and integral to business operations.

As this digital revolution accelerates, we find ourselves not at the end, but at the very beginning of an exciting journey. So, fasten your seat belts, because the race into the AI-driven future of CRM is on!

We encourage you to add your insights to this conversation.

Feel free to share this post within your network. Your perspective is a crucial part of this ongoing discourse and we’re excited to hear from you!


5 Technology Trends In The Cards For 2020

Any successful company knows that the only way to stay in business is by adapting to change. To resist advancements in technology is to hamper your own business’s future. If you’re looking at getting a headstart on your competitors why not consider implementing some of the below technology trends.

Digital Twin

Digital Twin Gif

A digital twin is a digital clone of something living or non-living physical in the virtual world. Examples can include a virtual model of a process, product, or service. A digital twin can exist simultaneously with its twin in the “real world”.  

Benefits of a digital twin:

  • Quality control, 
  • Improvement & Optimizations of systems.
  • System diagnostics
  • Monitoring
  • Prediction of production outcomes 

Having a digital twin allows one to monitor the twin system, analyze data and resolve any issues found without it affecting the actual physical entity. During a simulation, one can prevent downtime, develop new opportunities, and plan for the future. Other benefits can include improvement in customer service, by better understanding the customer needs, upgrade existing products, operations, and services. Digital twins require an initial investment in machinery and software as well as any advancements in the future.  

Machine Learning

Machine Learning Gif

Machine learning is the ability of computer systems to perform a task without explicit instructions, this is achieved by using algorithms and statistical models. Machine learning allows companies to analyze massive quantities of data. It goes without saying that a machine will not experience “Human-error” and therefore will deliver faster, more accurate results that can be used to identify profitable opportunities or dangerous risks.

Time spent on manual data entry can now be implemented by employees on tasks that add value to the business. Once calibrated correctly machine learning will be able to run manufacturing processes with very little human interference.  Some companies are confident enough in their Machine Learning to allow them to make decisions without “human-error” regarding operations. AI is able to operate other technologies that increase automation in business.

Machine learning can help businesses predict customer behaviors and purchasing patterns. With this information, you (or the machine) can provide the best possible offers to targeted customers. By analyzing customer behavior machine learning can improve customer loyalty. Ensure superior customer experience by assigning the customer to the most suitable customer service executive or use predictive algorithms to provide customers with suggestions of products they should enjoy.

Data Protection

Data Protection Gif

Year after year your company generates bytes upon bytes of data. Data protection now more than ever is of the utmost importance. 

“Data. Specifically data storage, analysis, and security. We generate an incredible amount of data across Lockheed Martin, and we’re always finding ways to put it to work more efficiently. We’re also developing new ways to protect and encrypt valuable data in space. Many companies are talking about data, and each year we see more wins – and losses – when it comes to data.” – Rick Ambrose Executive Vice President of Lockheed Martin Space

Commercient takes data protection very seriously and we have taken a stance to protect an individual’s data by ensuring enhanced security for individual data at rest, plus encrypted data in transit. Additionally, we conduct routine data audits using data processing logs to ensure that the data we process is secure. We’ve also developed systems to prevent data breaches. Recently we have implemented data deduplication, which removes redundant copies of data to reduce the storage capacity required for backups.

AI

AI Gif

Artificial Intelligence is intelligence demonstrated by machines that mimic the cognitive functions of humans. 

In the future, all communications with customers will all be dealt with by AI smart enough to pass the Turing Test. An AI won’t become overwhelmed by an irate customer, it will be able to deal with any hurdles in a quick, calm, and professional manner. 

Unlike humans who have pesky needs that need to be dealt with on a daily basis, an AI can work 24/7 without rest or nourishment. This can come in handy if your company boasts having customers all over the world, who require assistance at any time.       

So how does a company actualize AI? 

“You need a lot of data to train AI to do that… if you don’t have that data you’re not going to be able to build an AI system,” Henry Baltazar is a Research Vice President for the Storage Channel at 451 Research. 

Many companies struggle with siloed data, especially between ERP & CRM systems. For an AI system to learn and adapt in needs easy access to all the data your company has accumulated thus far. Integrate your ERP & CRM Data with Commercient SYNC.

Hologram Technology

Hologram Gif

A Hologram is no longer a piece of future tech you only see in Sci-Fi movies. A Hologram is the three-dimensional presentation of light scattered from an object.  

As previously discussed companies are generating more and more data, but where does one store it all? Holograms are capable of recording pure data, they have the potential to store absurd amounts of information. Prototypes can store over 4.4 million individual pages on a disc. Holographic memory offers the possibility of storing 1 terabyte of data in a sugar-cube-sized crystal. Holograms offer a unique form of long-term security, media stability, and reliability. Three-dimensional data storage will be able to store more information in a smaller space and offer faster data transfer times. 

As you can see above many of the new up and coming technology trends rely on data. Having all of your data in one place not only makes it easier for you to implement new technologies, but it benefits your company in multiple different ways. Discover how Commercient SYNC can benefit you, Contact Us.  

Enhancing Customer Relationships with AI and CRM

Businesses are finding it hard to keep up with the shift in consumer demand. With the advancement of technology, customers have increased their expectations for personalization, service, responsiveness, and delivery. For your business to be successful, you need to build strong relationships with your customers. But how do you do that? The obvious answer is by using a customer relationship management (CRM) system.

A traditional CRM database was used to achieve goals more straightforwardly. Initially, it was only used for gathering, storing, and structuring data for easy access. It didn’t play any role in the process of analysis and interpretation of data to provide meaningful insight.

Customer Relationship Management (CRM) is a vital requirement for large and growing businesses operating in a competitive market. A variety of tools and software enables the sales and marketing department to build and strengthen customer relationships. 

Artificial Intelligence has made it easier to predict user behavior and needs. AI combined with CRM enable businesses to enhance their customer relationships. Artificial intelligence, or AI, refers to the ability of machines to think and understand like humans. We have now provided machines with some capabilities that can do much more than just collecting and storing of data. With the help of AI, a system can process a huge chunk of data, analyze it and detect patterns to predict behavior, and also use the same insight to calculate risk.

AI has great potential to boost the output of CRM tools. AI can provide a clear view of the customer’s entire journey from the prospect stage to retention. Artificial Intelligence is steadily redefining the future of CRM systems. With the advancement in Artificial Intelligence, the field of automation is becoming broader. It prompts customer relationship stakeholders to focus on more pressing issues. In short, it will elevate the customer experience from the first touchpoint to after-sales service.

How AI is Redefining the Future of Customer Service

Intelligent Automation: AI coupled with CRM will enable organizations to restructure their workflow and automate manual processes intelligently. It can be used to evaluate sales funnels, predict customer behavior, and predict ROI with maximum accuracy. With predictive analysis, AI can enable businesses to use historical data to make predictions about the future and take relevant actions.

As mentioned before, AI can help predict customers’ behavior based on past interactions. It uses the same insights to evaluate the sales funnels and forecast market dynamics with maximum accuracy, allowing businesses to take relevant actions that will have a positive impact, restructuring, and automating the workflow, depending on the insights. For instance, it can help with lead scoring and assist in lead segmentation based on demographics, sales records, and more. 

Efficient Management of Data: Nowadays, a vast amount of information is generated every hour by interactions with consumers. This data can be used to gain insights into predicting buyer’s behavior and formulate your business strategies accordingly.

Artificial intelligence is a useful resource when it comes to collecting and processing a massive amount of data. AI can help centralize all data from different social channels and digital interfaces into a single platform — CRM. It can then easily interpret and analyze them and provide value to the company’s objective. 

In essence, it will help effortlessly manage the marketing department by enabling them to respond to customers more quickly and efficiently. 

Advanced Customer Service Capabilities with NLP: Natural Language Processing is defined as a type of machine learning. It understands words, sentences, and the context of your customer care queries. As a subset of artificial intelligence, Natural Language Processing interprets and analyzes customer’s verbal statements. When it’s done, it provides them with an answer without any human intervention.

Natural language processing in Artificial Intelligence is an essential speech recognition capability that can read, convert, and make sense of human languages. NLP can help the CRM system to meaningfully analyze the textual context of customer emails and send them a precise response and it can also provide real-time advice for sales pitches. NLP combined with CRM tools can help businesses to reveal their brand sentiments accurately, which will ultimately affect marketing efforts. 

Transform your Business with Our Artificial Intelligence and CRM Expertise

Commercient provides CRM and ERP software integration solutions. We integrate +85 ERPs with Salesforce, Microsoft Dynamics CRM, Sugar CRM, Zoho CRM, and HubSpot CRM.

Commercient’s out-of-the-box “SYNC app”  is so easy to install. There’s no coding, no mapping, and no servers to manage on your end. Just download and go with easy access to sales and customer data when and where you need it.

Commercient SYNC can be set up to synchronize your ERP and CRM data as frequently as your business requires, once a day, every hour, or in real-time. SYNC is configurable to your company’s unique needs.

Examples of AI and CRM

Salesforce Einstein: Salesforce Einstein is the first comprehensive AI for CRM that is designed for business to be smarter and more predictive about potential customers. Einstein is powered by deep learning, Machine Learning, Predictive Analytics, and Data Mining.

Zoho: Zoho has a conversational AI assistant called Zia. It assists customers with everything from simple responses to complex analytics. We at Commercient integrate Zoho products with CRM systems to manage products, sales, marketing, recruitment, social media, and more.

Sugar CRM: Sugar CRM has recently launched an AI product called Hint. It automatically searches, tunes, and inputs personal and corporate profile details of prospective customers.

Conclusion

A CRM is considered as the backbone of any business organization. In the end, you will see a vast improvement in the company’s bottom line. Investing in AI can help your business optimize various back-office processes –  your business will improve customer service, improve customer engagement, and increase retention rates. Artificial intelligence will help create a better experience for both customers and sales representatives. The combination of AI and customer relationship management is a gateway to a profitable business. 

Trends That Will Transform The Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Industry

ERP software is essential for a modern-day business. There are professional ERP software solutions providers to help with your requirements. With the breakneck pace at which technology is evolving, ERP is undergoing a host of changes.

The business environment today has become more complex. The level of competition is increasing daily, so are customer expectations. It is essential for businesses to utilize their resources efficiently, this is only possible through the integration of technology with business operations.

Let us take a look at technology trends that will revolutionize the ERP industry as we know it: 

Direct machine integration: This technology refers to the connectivity of computers with machines and other things. Sometimes called “IoT” or “the internet of things”. For example, sensors placed on manufacturing machines can tell the manufacturer’s ERP software everything about the machine’s performance in real-time. The foreman or manager views and interprets the information. He then schedules any needed maintenance during off-hours when employees are not there.

There are much fewer surprise malfunctions and shut-downs when IoT and ERP are combined. That means that fewer human technicians are needed and employees are rarely paid for doing nothing while waiting on machines to get fixed. IoT devices connected to the ERP system can create this kind of communication and efficiency in many different applications within the entire supply chain. This level of visibility all up and down the chain will make companies much more competitive.

Artificial intelligence: To understand AI in an ERP context, think in terms of its practical applications—things like machine learning and natural language processing. AI isn’t any one thing; it’s all the parts and processes toiling away behind the scenes to make something whole, rather than the physical or theoretical manifestation of that whole. AI ERP systems can recognize patterns and automate routine tasks, and they do all of it in the blink of an eye, giving businesses an unprecedented level of efficiency, functionality, and insight into their data. 

If the technology is used optimally, AI will use intelligent software applications to improve the internal management structure and create a smarter technology infrastructure, and thus optimize the business processes in each individual company. To accommodate the new technology, it is important that you are flexible and as a company prepared to review your current IT strategies.

ERP and CRM Data integration: Data has become more complex over the years and it still remains the fuel keeping most organizations in business today. Getting a consistent view of your business performance across a large enterprise could be challenging. Often, global corporations lack a single definitive source of data related to customers or products. And that makes it difficult to answer even the simplest questions.

Not all information needs to be available within five minutes, but certain decisions can only be made on the basis of data that is fully up-to-date. And that is a big advantage of ERP and CRM data integration. With ERP and CRM data integration, you see a unified view of your data, because ERP and CRM data integration software brings your information together, it can include data quality and the process of defining master reference data, such as corporatewide definitions of customers, products, suppliers and other key information that gives context to business transactions.

Cloud ERP: Cloud ERP refers to ERP software and tools that are offered and managed in the cloud, as opposed to the business hosting their system on-premises. While every organization operating today is different, they all face a common challenge—in order to effectively compete in today’s business environment, they need access to technology that helps them innovate, scale, and grow quickly. They need advanced, globally-connected, and continuously updated software tools and systems that allow them to focus more of their time and energy on implementing growth initiatives and less on day-to-day IT management. That’s where cloud ERP comes into play. As technology continues to advance and evolve, more businesses of all sizes are considering cloud ERP software solutions than ever before. This popularity is largely a result of factors such as cost, reliability, speed, and access.

Mobile ERP: Everyone is staring at their cell phones these days. Many people take laptops and other mobile devices with them to restaurants, coffee shops, home, and back to the office.

We live in an era of instant access to information, and today’s mobile workforce expects large-company software to have a mobile app. Apps give executives and employees access to real-time company information and customer communications. ERP is indeed going mobile to meet this need. ERP mobile apps let the workforce send push notifications, create an event, review and approve time, sales orders, and expenses from the local coffee shop.

Apps that are dedicated to just one activity, such as dealing with sales orders or performing customer relationship management, are common. Employees, from the warehouse to the customer’s door, have some sort of real-time information. Companies who implement this technology will have an edge over those who don’t because more work is getting done during the day. That means it gets done faster and customers are happier.

Conclusion

Combining ERP and Smart Tech solutions is a beneficial practice for organizations that want to standardize repeatable processes and increase the visibility of operations across the organization. The ERP system is used as a backbone platform to execute the main transactions and to store the essential data. Smart Tech solutions automate, control, and visualize business processes. As Smart Tech solutions are becoming more extensive and sophisticated,  the number of activities they can replace is increasing. However, to ensure successful use of the ERP and Smart Tech solutions the following considerations must be taken into account:

  • structure of the data
  • alignment of end-users
  • maturity of Smart Tech solutions
  • set-up of the ERP system

The continuous monitoring tool on the ERP platform makes it possible for the employees to gain insights into their critical processes and to turn these insights into actions by managing exceptions. This caused a shift from resolving issues to improving business process activities. Because of the standardized back-office processes.

Contact us today for a free Commercient SYNC demo, and embark on a journey of revolutionizing your ERP system.

Cutting-Edge Business Tech Predictions For 2020

Our society is constantly being augmented by data technology. This cycle of renewal and change is essential to every growing economy. The only way to go from rags to riches is to keep up with the rate of change. If we want to empower ourselves as entrepreneurs, we need to take a holistic view of leading trends. Future-proofing your business starts with learning as much as you can about the innovations coming your way. Stay ahead of the curve with us by exploring some of the most influential tech predictions for 2020. 

  1. Mobile Payment Ecosystems: 

Online shopping has steadily gained public trust and traction over the last decade.

E-Commerce has grown more efficient and trustworthy with mobile-intuitive websites and one-click pay options. Business benefits of apps like Sync2Pay include direct processing of mobile payment straight into your CRM or E-Commerce system. No external reconciliation or manual data entry is needed to keep track of your revenue. Mobile CRM apps like Salesforce also give your reps the freedom to collect customer information when they’re out in the field. This enables faster conversions and fewer missed leads. 

The next step in the evolution is a completely cashless and cardless consumer experience. Apple Pay, Snap Scan and Google Wallet will increase their dominance when it comes to creating virtual pay-points. This means we’ll be seeing more of the quaint QR-code in months to come. As we watch payment apps become more prolific, expect stronger competition amongst gatekeepers of these online transactions. Banks, telecoms and credit card companies are just some of the processing parties who will be vying for a slice of the pie. 

  1. AI as a Service:

Whilst there are fears of redundancy within the human workforce, a robot isn’t likely to steal your job. Well, not within the next year anyway. AI is a boon for business because of its ability to handle large scale computations. Machine learning can process massive batches of customer data, fast. The result is a risk reduction in decision-making systems. More companies will combine Software as a Service business model with AI. Thus, creating greater accessibility to processing-heavy services, at a reduced cost. Fore-runners like Google, Amazon, and Microsoft are already offering machine-learning capabilities and training materials to the masses for a subscription. Retail sector benefits include big data processing for predictive modeling. Consumer trends can be mapped and efforts wisely directed in CRM based on key demographics. But forget the theory. This is how improved ERP data access can practically transform the efficiency of a cloud-based CRM. No costly upgrade. No compatibility hitches. Commercient SYNC helps businesses streamline sales and customer service, increase customer satisfaction, and drive profitability. Within CRM, your sales team will have access to ERP information such as customer information, sales history, invoicing, terms, serial numbers invoiced, inventory, A/R information, multiple ship-to addresses, and more.

Contact us today to put your business at the forefront of customer innovation.

  1. Nano-technology Business Ventures: 

Think about the size of an atom. Now divide that by ten. As hard as it is to imagine this is the minuscule scale dealt with in nano-tech production. Of course, the precursor to this booming business is the 3D printer. With a vast array of applications from food production to medical science, the scope for nano-tech start-ups is huge. This technology is known for creating smaller, more robust and affordable machine components that ultimately streamline manufacturing processes. This lowers demands on energy consumption and raw materials. The global focus is set to hone in on this topic at trade shows in Tokyo and France next year. These are some of the nano-tech functions that will be exhibited:  

  • creating wound-healing devices 
  • manufacturing parts for commercial drones 
  • assembly of medical fitness wearables
  1. Smarter hackers:

With the ubiquity of E-Commerce comes an increased need for data protection. Personal data is vulnerable to these transactions so security is crucial in every online consumer experience. Like the superbugs allegedly spawned by our obsession with antibacterial substances, hackers have become more resilient. The good news is that there’s no end to the one-upmanship. Security systems will continue to deliver preemptive strikes to data theft and network breaches. Fortunately, ERP and CRM integration apps create a single database that can be backed up and password protected. Additionally, you can create different levels of accessibility to the same repository, each with its own password. No need to save confidential customer data onto individual documents that live outside the security of your ERP system.