Exploring Cloud-Based CRM (Benefits & Top 10 Solutions)

Companies with a Customer Relationship Management (CRM) strategy in place see a 300% boost in conversion rates. CRMs help streamline customer interactions, organize data, boost sales, and enhance customer service.

Now, imagine having all these CRM advantages easily accessible through the cloud. That's what a cloud-based CRM solution offers - it's hosted in the cloud rather than chained to a local server. Users can access the system from any location through a web browser or third-party application.

Buckle up as we tell you about cloud-based CRM solutions, why you need one, and the benefits you will enjoy. We will review our top 10 solutions to help you choose software that meets your business needs.

What Is a Cloud-Based CRM?

A cloud-based CRM, a web-based or SaaS (Software as a Service) CRM, is an online platform for managing customer interactions and relationships.

Cloud-based CRMs store a wide range of customer data, including:

• Contact information
• Communication history
• Purchase history
• Preferences and behavior
• Demographic data
• Lead and opportunity information
• Support and service tickets

Unlike a traditional CRM system, which is tethered to specific computers or networks, a cloud-based solution lives online. This means you can manage customer interactions, track sales, and access real-time data anytime, anywhere - in the office or beach in Bali!

A cloud-based CRM also offers unparalleled scalability. You can effortlessly add new features or integrate it with third-party applications as your business evolves.

How Does It Work?

A cloud-based CRM operates on a centralized online platform you can access via any internet-connected device. When a customer interacts with your business - whether through a purchase, a support ticket, or social media - your CRM automatically updates this data.

You can view the data immediately to make the best decisions for your business. The cloud-based nature of this system ensures all updates are instantly available to every team member, even your remote workers.

The CRM system is owned and maintained by its provider, eliminating the need for your business to manage servers or perform software updates. To access the CRM, all you need is an internet connection to log in to your account; there's no need for additional applications or software installations.

Why Use Cloud CRM Software

Efficient customer relationship management is paramount to any organization. As businesses evolve in the digital age, more and more companies are adopting cloud CRM solutions. Today, 87% of companies use cloud-based CRM. But why is it so popular?

Here are the benefits of cloud CRM software that so many businesses enjoy:

Enhanced Collaboration

In a cloud-based CRM, you can access customer data in real-time. This fosters a collaborative environment within your teams, whether in sales, marketing, or customer service.

This accessibility eliminates the silos that often exist in organizations and ensures everyone is on the same page. Real-time data sharing allows quicker decision-making and problem-solving, leading to a cohesive and efficient operation.

Integration and Automation

A cloud-based CRM can integrate seamlessly with other applications you're already using, including email platforms, social media, and specialized industry software.

Integration allows you to automate tasks across multiple departments. You also reduce the risk of human error, making your processes more reliable and efficient.

Cost Efficiency

When it comes to budget, cloud-based CRM systems offer a distinct advantage. Unlike traditional systems that require an upfront investment, cloud-based CRMs operate on a subscription model. With a pay-as-you-go approach, you can manage your budget more efficiently.

The CRM provider handles maintenance and updates, further reducing your operational expenses. So, even the smallest organizations can leverage advanced CRM capabilities without breaking the bank.

Improved Insights

A CRM system lets you access real-time analytics and reporting features that can transform how you understand your customers and your business. These insights help you identify trends, assess performance metrics, and predict future customer behaviors.

The data will guide your marketing strategies, help you improve customer service, and optimize sales efforts.

Data Organization

A cloud-based customer relationship management solution centralizes customer information, from contact details to purchase history, in one accessible location.

And it isn't just about storage. A cloud-based CRM enables instant retrieval and utilization of the information. You can quickly search for specific data, update records in real-time, or set priorities or tags for effective customer engagement.

As a result, you spend less time on data management and more on what matters - building strong customer relationships.

Streamlined Sales Processes

CRM software streamlines your sales processes. It automates different stages of the sales funnel, like lead generation and closing deals.

Cloud CRM can also prioritize leads, schedule follow-ups, and suggest the next best action, making your sales team more efficient.

Customer Segmentation

Segmentation is about understanding each customer's unique needs and behaviors.

Cloud CRM software lets you divide your customer base into subgroups based on attributes like demographics, purchase history, and behavioral patterns.

With segmentation, you can deliver personalized experiences with tailored marketing strategies, product recommendations, and customer service approaches. This approach will increase customer satisfaction and loyalty.

10 Best Cloud-Based CRM Software Solutions

It's time to select your ideal cloud CRM software. But with so many options in the market, you may feel spoiled for choice. Luckily, we've done the legwork for you!

Browse our top 10 picks for cloud-based CRM solutions to decide which is best for your organization.

1. Helpmonks

Helpmonks is an email management tool with a powerful CRM. It's an all-in-one suite for businesses that want to streamline their customer service, sales, and marketing efforts.

One of the best features of Helpmonks is the smart shared mailbox. Thanks to its built-in collision detection tool, you can have multiple team members managing emails without the risk of duplicate replies.

The cloud CRM software also offers automated follow-ups and email sequences. It will organize customer records and trigger actions that move leads seamlessly through sales. Helpmonks will boost sales and increase customer satisfaction for any organization.

Main Features

Helpmonks is the ideal cloud CRM software for email communication. More of its features include:

• Seamless email integration: Helpmonks integrates with your existing email setup.
• Active deal capture: The software will capture and manage active deals, making tracking and closing sales opportunities easy.
• Detailed email threads: Enrich each email thread with additional context, like notes, deal sizes, and contact information, for more informed customer interaction.
• Marketing automation: Helpmonks offers refined marketing automation features, like email drip campaigns, to boost customer engagement.
• 360-degree customer view: The software aggregates all customer interactions, offering a 360-degree view of ongoing customer relationships.

Best For

Helpmonks is ideal for small businesses and teams that rely on email for customer interactions. With real-time data sharing and seamless integrations, it's best for sales teams and organizations looking to boost customer engagement through email.

2. Monday.com

Monday.com's sales CRM platform is designed to manage every aspect of your sales process. It's an all-in-one workspace that will handle sales pipelines, contact management, lead management, and customer onboarding.

It offers reliable CRM functionalities and project management tools. With an intuitive interface, you can assign specific roles to team members to ease accountability and task management.

The platform also gives insights into project timelines and offers Gantt charts and software integrations like Slack, Trello, Dropbox, and Google Drive.

While Monday.com excels in many areas, it lacks omnichannel tools for customer engagement. Lead scoring is also only available under the Enterprise plan.

Main Features

Here are the best features you'll enjoy from Monday.com:

• Sales cycle management: Run your entire sales cycle in one place, from lead capture to closing deals.
• Customizable interface: Tailor your cloud CRM to fit your unique sales cycle. You can edit deal stages and manage multiple pipelines at once.
• Email and activity tracking: Centralize client communication by integrating your email. Monday.com instantly logs sent emails and keeps track of interactions.
• Automation: Save valuable time by automating repetitive work like lead assignments and setting reminders for upcoming activities.
• Dashboard insights: Gain real-time insights into deal statuses, expected revenue, and team performance through easily customizable dashboards.

Best For

Monday.com is well-suited for sales teams looking for an all-encompassing platform to manage their entire sales cycle.

3. Pipedrive

Pipedrive stands out for its focus on activity-based selling. This sales approach identifies and executes specific actions or activities to move a deal through the sales pipeline.

The cloud-based CRM has an intuitive interface and features like click tracking, inbox management, and content delivery. You can set up reminders, follow up with prospects, and move deals forward efficiently.

But while Pipedrive is the ideal solution for salespeople, it can be difficult to set up workflows if you're not tech-savvy. Also, it has usage limits based on the plan you are using. The number of open deals, custom fields, and automation is restricted according to your subscription level.

Main Features

Here are some of the best Pipedrive features you can look forward to:

• Customizable funnels: You can adapt your sales processes to suit your unique needs and ensure your team stays on track to close deals.
• Email & communication: You can easily create and send email marketing campaigns. Select your best email templates, add content, and send to your contacts.
• Lead generation tools: The LeadBooster add-on includes powerful tools to help you generate high-quality leads.
• Web visitor tracking: Discover which companies visit your website with Pipedrive's Web Visitors add-on.

Best For

Pipedrive is great for sales teams wanting granular control over their activities. It will help teams identify, track, and execute the specific activities that will most effectively push deals through the sales pipeline.

4. HubSpot CRM

HubSpot CRM is a comprehensive solution that will streamline your entire business process, from sales to customer service and marketing. This software automates administrative tasks and offers a range of productivity tools.

Its Contact Record feature centralizes all your customer interactions and data. This benefits your sales representatives, who can tailor their approach based on this rich data.

HubSpot CRM also offers robust performance tracking tools that inform sales managers about their team's activities and productivity levels.

While HubSpot CRM has a free version, it comes with very limited features for a business. You must upgrade to the pro version for essential features like workflow automation and advanced reporting.

Main Features

HubSpot CRM is feature-rich, designed to simplify your workflow:

• Real-time sales activity tracking: Track your sales processes on your visual dashboard.
• Unlimited users and data: The platform allows for an unrestricted number of users, data storage, and the capacity to hold up to 1,000,000 contacts.
• Meeting scheduler and email template builder: Save time using these tools to schedule meetings and build email templates.
• Live chat and AI email writer: Engage with customers in real time and draft emails with the help of AI.
• Dashboard and reporting: Access detailed reports on sales activity, productivity, and individual performance.

Best For

HubSpot CRM is ideal for businesses looking for an all-in-one solution to manage sales, marketing, and customer service.

5. Zoho CRM

Zoho CRM is a cloud-based CRM that focuses on automating workflows and customer journeys. With Zoho, you can focus less on administrative tasks and more on building customer relationships. Zoho CRM caters to many businesses, from startups to large enterprises.

You'll enjoy a user-friendly interface, customizable modules, and more features that streamline customer relationship management. These include real-time notifications that make it ideal for businesses prioritizing immediate customer engagement and team collaboration.

Zia, Zoho's AI-powered analytics engine, will help your business better grasp sales anomalies and trends.

Zoho CRM also has a Canvas drag-and-drop interface editor that allows for rich customization without needing developers or consultants.

Main Features

This CRM offers a range of features to optimize your work experience:

• Comprehensive analytics: Make informed decisions using Zoho CRM's analytical tools.
• Operation management: Hyper-manage your CRM from start to finish with a dedicated admin panel, cutting-edge customization, and a robust development platform.
• Omnichannel presence: Interact with your customers through multiple channels while viewing customer data in one centralized location.
• Automated workflows: Automate your workflows, processes, and customer journeys.
• Seamless integrations: Zoho Marketplace allows you to integrate with over 800 applications.

Best For

Zoho CRM is handy for businesses that require detailed analytics and customizable solutions to manage their sales processes. It is ideal for businesses that want to make data-driven decisions while automating manual work.

6. Salesforce

Salesforce is a trailblazer in the cloud-based CRM space, known for its AI-driven capabilities that enhance every facet of the sales process. It offers predictive analytics and AI tools to improve seller effectiveness throughout the sales cycle.

Beyond its AI prowess, Salesforce offers ample customization options. It integrates seamlessly with many third-party applications to gather your software solutions into a unified platform.

Main Features

Salesforce offers a multitude of features to enhance your sales process. Here's what you can do:

• Sales AI: Leverage advanced AI algorithms to enhance your decision-making at every stage of the sales process.
• Sales engagement: Speed up your sales cycle with built-in engagement functionalities that facilitate better connections with potential buyers.
• Revenue optimization: Integrate various revenue management processes to open new revenue channels and improve operational efficiency.
• Performance insights: Automate and gain actionable insights at every step, from initial planning to the final execution.
• Sales team productivity: Boost your team's productivity by integrating real-time data and processes in a collaborative environment.

Best For

Salesforce cloud-based CRM is best for organizations that want to maximize AI and analytics in their sales operations.

7. Copper CRM

Copper is a cloud-based CRM platform tailored for businesses that use Google Workspace. It integrates seamlessly with Gmail, Google Calendar, and Google Drive. The platform excels in automation to eliminate manual data entry and repetitive tasks.

With Copper's top two tiers, you can take advantage of workflow and task automation. For example, it auto-populates your contact entries using email signatures, LinkedIn accounts, and company websites. It also offers two-way sync with Google Contacts to give you the most up-to-date customer info.

However, Copper is not a one-size-fits-all solution as it lacks features outside the Google Workspace.

Main Features

Here are Copper's best features:

• Google Workspace integration: Sync emails, files, and calendar invites between your team and customers.
• Automated data entry: The software automatically pulls in your team's contacts and email conversations for a comprehensive history of all interactions.
• Visual sales process: You can monitor your team's sales process and add active opportunities into a pipeline for easy tracking.
• Workflow automation: Create simple workflows to trigger notifications when action is needed from your team.

Best For

Copper is ideal for businesses invested in Google Workspace who want seamless CRM integration into their existing workflow.

8. EngageBay

EngageBay is a comprehensive solution for marketing, sales, and customer support. The affordable cloud CRM software offers many features like email marketing, automation, ticket management, and live chat.

EngageBay boasts a user-friendly interface and automation features to streamline your business processes. It also offers integration capabilities to connect to third-party applications.

The platform's advanced analytics and reporting tools add valuable insights for data-driven decision-making to its feature set.

Main Features

Here are EngageBay's top features:

• Marketing automation: You can automate your marketing processes and send personalized messages to target audiences.
• Sales automation: Features like contact management, deal management, and appointment scheduling will streamline your sales process.
• Helpdesk software: Resolve customer queries faster with efficient ticket management.
• Live Chat: Offer instant help to your customers to boost customer satisfaction and increase conversions.

Best For

EngageBay is best suited for small to medium-sized businesses looking for an affordable, all-in-one marketing, sales, and customer support solution.

9. Zendesk Sell

Zendesk Sell is a cloud CRM that optimizes sales processes using intelligent data and maximizing team productivity. It offers an intuitive user interface and integrates well with other B2B tools.

While it may not be the most budget-friendly option, especially for smaller businesses, it offers a feature-rich environment that can benefit larger firms.

Some of its best features include lead capture functionality, integration capabilities with tools like MailChimp and Zapier, and advanced reporting options. The CRM also offers excellent customization to tailor your workspace with personalized fields and custom objects.

Main Features

Here are the main Zendesk Sell features you can enjoy:

• Data-driven teams: You can use data analytics to form effective teams that meet and exceed customer expectations.
• Efficiency tools: The software will streamline your sales process with features that help manage contacts, track activities, and generate leads.
• Better customer experience: Enjoy a 360-degree view of your customer's journey to personalize interactions.
• Track sales: Keep track of your sales channels in real-time to make accurate forecasts.
• Excellent integrations: The software integrates perfectly with your existing tech stack.

Best For

Zendesk Sell is ideal for large companies and sales teams that need data-driven strategies to manage their sales channels.

10. Keap

Keap is a robust CRM solution designed to serve the unique needs of small businesses. It offers an integrated set of features that merge sales and marketing. From advanced email campaign building to native payment functionality, Keap is a one-stop shop for managing customer relationships. It even throws in appointment bookings and automated triggers to save time and effort.

The platform has a user-friendly interface and extensive support options, making it accessible even for CRM novices. Also, its personalized automation eliminates repetitive tasks so your employees can focus on the important stuff.

Main Features

Here are Keap's main features:

• Lead collection: This cloud CRM software lets you collect leads and organize customer records. You can then move prospects seamlessly along the sales funnel.
• Personalized automation: These features will reduce manual and repetitive tasks to let you focus on other important processes.
• Email and text marketing: Keap provides curated templates for emails and texts, which you can send to segmented lists in your CRM.
• Business line: Manage work calls and texts on your smartphone while keeping personal conversations separate for an improved work-life balance.
• Thousands of integrations: Keap integrates with over 2,500 software solutions you may already use.

Best For

Keap is an excellent choice for small to medium-sized businesses seeking to automate and streamline their sales and marketing. With features that save time and boost revenue, you can boost business growth without the extra hours.

Conclusion

The right cloud CRM software makes it easy to run a business, from managing customer interactions to tracking your sales from anywhere. We've walked you through the ins and outs of a cloud-based CRM, why you should consider using one, and the unique features of top solutions.

Whether you're looking for enhanced collaboration, cost efficiency, or streamlined sales processes, Helpmonks is your ideal cloud-based CRM!

Ready to elevate your customer relationship management? Schedule a free demo today!