Skip to main content

With the number of client resource management software options, selecting the perfect fit for your needs can be daunting. You're looking for a way to manage client interactions and data effectively, but choosing the right tool can be challenging. 

I understand the struggle and am here to guide you through it. Drawing from my extensive experience with various digital project management tools, I've sifted through the options to offer you the best choices. Here are my picks for the best client resource management software.

Client Resource Management Software Summary

We’ve investigated the pricing and availability of free trials and demo versions so you can make a much simpler side-by-side comparison.

Best Client Resource Management Software Reviews

Explore my in-depth reviews of leading CRM software, highlighting the pros, cons, key features, and best use cases.

Best for relationship management

  • 14-day free trial
  • From $25/user/month (billed annually)
Visit Website
Rating: 4.5/5

Nimble is a CRM tool that simplifies contact management and improves professional relationships. It integrates communication tools to foster meaningful connections with contacts.

Why I Picked Nimble:

I chose Nimble because it focuses on fostering personal relationships in business. Its CRM centralizes communication and offers contact insights, making it ideal for building lasting business relationships. 

Standout features & integrations:

Features include contacts, communication, reporting, and calendars. 

Integrations include Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, LinkedIn, Outlook, Gmail, Twitter, Facebook, HubSpot, Mailchimp, QuickBooks, HelpWise, ZapUp, and Zapier. 

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Provides actionable contact insights
  • Integrates with major email and social media platforms
  • Centralizes contact management

Cons:

  • Limited to 25,000 contact records in the base plan
  • Additional fees for extra storage and contact records

Best for Gmail integration

  • 14-day free trial
  • From $49/user/month (billed annually)
Visit Website
Rating: 4.4/5

Streak CRM is a customer relationship management tool that integrates directly with Gmail. It operates entirely within the Gmail interface.

Why I Picked Streak CRM:

I chose Streak CRM for this list because it is uniquely embedded within Gmail. This integration sets it apart from other CRM tools, which often require application switching. 

Streak CRM allows users to manage their workflows, sales, support, and more directly from their email, which is where much of today's business communication occurs.

Standout features & integrations:

Features include its ability to manage leads, projects, and support tickets from Gmail. It offers email tracking, mail merge, and snippets for frequently used email templates. 

Integrations include Google Sheets, Google Chat, Google Drive, and Zapier.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Direct integration with Gmail for managing CRM tasks within the email platform
  • Offers a range of features such as email tracking, mail merge, and scheduled sending
  • Recognized by Google as a Partner of the Year, indicating a strong integration with G Suite

Cons:

  • Limited to Google Chrome, Safari, and Microsoft Edge users
  • The focus on Gmail integration may not suit businesses looking for a more standalone CRM solution

Best for email marketing strategy

  • 14-day free trial
  • From $39/month
Visit Website
Rating: 4.4/5

Drip executes email marketing strategies as it has advanced automation and segmentation capabilities.

Why I Picked Drip:

I selected Drip for its proficiency in automating and segmenting email marketing efforts. Drip is the best email marketing strategy tool because it allows marketers to craft highly targeted campaigns based on nuanced customer data.

Standout features & integrations:

Features include its visual workflow builder, email marketing segmentation options, automation, and content personalization.

Integrations include Shopify, Magento, WooCommerce, Stripe, and Facebook.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Detailed list of integrations with popular e-commerce and payment platforms
  • Advanced segmentation for highly targeted campaigns
  • Intuitive visual workflow builder for creating complex automation

Cons:

  • May be complex for beginners to master
  • Cost increases with the number of contacts

Best for sales and support unity

  • Free trial + free demo
  • From $19/user/month
Visit Website
Rating: 4.2/5

Zendesk Sell is a CRM tool that simplifies sales teams' processes and provides a unified platform for collaboration and customer understanding.

Why I Picked Zendesk Sell:

I selected Zendesk Sell for its unique approach to combining sales and support functions. This integration maintains a complete customer view and ensures that teams are informed and aligned. Zendesk Sell allows for a shared understanding of customer interactions, vital for delivering consistent customer experiences.

Zendesk Sell also fosters a unified understanding of customer interactions.

Standout features & integrations:

Features include email integration, sales automation, and detailed analytics for sales performance tracking. 

Integrations include Zendesk Support, Mailchimp, Dropbox, Zapier, Google Workspace, Microsoft Office 365, QuickBooks, Xero, PandaDoc, PieSync, and HubSpot.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Wide range of integrations
  • Detailed analytics for performance tracking
  • A unified platform for sales and support

Cons:

  • May not be affordable for small businesses
  • Steep learning curve for some users

Best for small business growth

  • 14-day free trial
  • From $249/user/month (billed annually)
Visit Website
Rating: 4.2/5

Keap is a CRM and sales and marketing automation platform tailored for small businesses.

Why I Picked Keap:

I chose Keap because of its feature set, which caters specifically to the needs of small businesses. Keap uniquely integrates CRM, sales, and marketing automation, making it ideal for small business growth.

Standout features & integrations:

Features include CRM capabilities, marketing automation, sales automation, payment processing, and detailed reporting.

Integrations include tools such as Gmail, Outlook, QuickBooks, WordPress, Docusign, Typeform, and Zapier.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Detailed reporting and analytics
  • Payment processing included
  • Feature-rich CRM and automation tools

Cons:

  • The number of tools can feel overwhelming
  • The higher initial cost for small businesses

Best for comprehensive online workspace

  • Free plan available
  • From $99/month (billed annually)
Visit Website
Rating: 4.1/5

Bitrix24 is a versatile client resource management platform with a complete online workspace. It integrates various business tools in one place. 

Why I Picked Bitrix24:

I chose Bitrix24 for this list because it provides an all-in-one workspace that combines many business tools, essential for today's interconnected work environments. Its ability to integrate various aspects of business operations sets it apart from other client resource management software. 

Bitrix24 also offers collaboration, project management, and client engagement features within a single platform.

Standout features & integrations:

Features include task and project management, such as Kanban boards, Gantt charts, and time tracking. It also includes CRM capabilities, omnichannel communication, and an AI-powered sales assistant, CoPilot. 

Integrations include Jira, Trello, Asana, Stripe, Mailchimp, WhatsApp Business API, Plivo SMS, and Miro Boards.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • AI-powered sales assistant for automation and analytics
  • Extensive CRM and project management features
  • A complete set of business tools in one platform

Cons:

  • The user interface may have a steep learning curve for new users
  • Can be overwhelming due to the multitude of features

Best for personalized experiences

  • 14-day free trial
  • From $20/month (billed annually)

ActiveCampaign is an all-in-one platform for creating and automating personalized customer experiences to grow businesses.

Why I Picked ActiveCampaign:

I chose ActiveCampaign for the list because it allows businesses to create highly personalized customer journeys. Its ability to integrate with over 900 marketing apps makes it a versatile choice for crafting unique experiences.

ActiveCampaign is best for personalized experiences due to its dynamic content, segmentation capabilities, and sales CRM.

Standout features & integrations:

Features include email marketing, dynamic content, segmentation, sales CRM, landing pages, and forms. 

Integrations include Shopify, WordPress, Zapier, Salesforce, Microsoft Dynamics 365, WooCommerce, BigCommerce, Facebook Custom Audiences, Facebook Lead Ads, and Postmark. 

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Customizable pricing based on business needs
  • Over 900 native integrations with popular marketing apps
  • Complete marketing automation and CRM capabilities

Cons:

  • Some features may have a learning curve for new users
  • No free plan is available

Best for international businesses

  • 30-day free trial + free demo available
  • From $20/user/month

Apptivo is a versatile CRM platform designed to cater to the needs of international businesses.

Why I Picked Apptivo:

I selected Apptivo because it specifically caters to international businesses and stands out for its support of multiple currencies and languages.

Apptivo is the best for international businesses because it offers the tools to manage diverse and geographically dispersed customers.

Standout features & integrations:

Features include project management, invoicing, supply chain management, and a 360-degree view of customers.

Integrations include Google Workspace, Slack, PayPal, Dropbox, RingCentral, Office 365, QuickBooks, Xero, and WordPress.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Provides a 360-degree view of customers
  • Offers a range of business applications
  • Supports multiple currencies and languages

Cons:

  • Limited information on higher-tier plan features without direct inquiry
  • Base fee required on top of per-user pricing

Best for B2B customer experiences

  • 14-day free trial
  • From $29/user/month (billed annually)

Insightly is a CRM platform designed to help businesses sell smarter, grow faster, and build lasting customer relationships. Its suite of features caters specifically to the needs of B2B relationships. 

Why I Picked Insightly:

I chose Insightly for this list because it offers a combination of affordability, scalability, and ease of use. Its focus on B2B customer experiences allows businesses to manage complex relationships effectively. Insightly is best for B2B customer experiences because it helps them better understand their clients. Plus, it also manages projects efficiently and fosters strong, long-lasting relationships.

Standout features & integrations:

Features include lead and opportunity management, customizable sales processes, and better post-sale transitions. It also offers workflow automation and relationship linking.

Integrations include Google Workspace, Asana, Drift, Slack, Xero, Mailchimp, Dropbox, and Box.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Wide range of native integrations
  • Customizable sales and project management features
  • Complete B2B relationship management

Cons:

  • The starting price may be higher than some competitors
  • A learning curve for new users

Best for an all-in-one CRM solution

  • Free plan available
  • From $8.99/user/month (billed annually)

Agile CRM is a platform that automates sales, marketing, and service in one system.

Why I Picked Agile CRM:

I chose Agile CRM because it provides a full suite of tools for managing the entire customer journey, from lead generation to deal closure. Its all-in-one nature makes it different from other CRM solutions that may require multiple products and integrations to achieve the same level of functionality. 

Agile CRM is best for businesses seeking an affordable CRM system that simplifies their sales, marketing, and service processes.

Standout features & integrations:

Features include contact management, appointment scheduling, email marketing, and project management. It also offers telephony services, marketing automation, and helpdesk ticketing. 

Integrations include Twitter, Facebook, Google Apps, Twilio, RingCentral, LinkedIn, Shopify, Stripe, SES/Mandrill/Sendgrid, and Chrome Extension. 

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Wide range of features and native integrations with popular tools
  • Free plan available for up to 10 users
  • All-in-one CRM solution integrating sales, marketing, and service

Cons:

  • The jump in pricing from the free plan to the starter plan may be steep for some small businesses
  • Some users may require time to learn and use the full range of features

Other Client Resource Management Software

Below is a list of additional client resource management software that I shortlisted but did not make it to the top list. It’s worth checking them out!

  1. Nutshell

    For streamlined sales processes

  2. Capsule

    For ease of use and flexibility

  3. HubSpot

    For inbound marketing synergy

  4. Zoho CRM

    For omnichannel management

  5. Salesforce Financial Services Cloud

    For scalable enterprise solutions

  6. monday.com

    For customizable workflows

  7. HoneyBook

    For freelancers and solopreneurs

  8. Copper CRM

    For Google Workspace integration

  9. Pipedrive

    For visual sales pipelines

  10. Freshworks

    For intuitive user experience

Client Resource Management Software Selection Criteria

When selecting the best client resource management software to include in this list, I considered common buyer needs and pain points like data organization and task automation. I also used the following framework to keep my evaluation structured and fair:

Core Functionality (25% of total score)
To be considered for inclusion in this list, each solution had to fulfill these common use cases:

  • Manage client contacts
  • Track communication history
  • Automate follow-up reminders
  • Organize client projects
  • Generate client reports

Additional Standout Features (25% of total score)
To help further narrow down the competition, I also looked for unique features, such as:

  • Customizable dashboards
  • AI-driven insights
  • Advanced data analytics
  • Multi-language support
  • Mobile app accessibility

Usability (10% of total score)
To get a sense of the usability of each system, I considered the following:

  • Intuitive user interface
  • Minimal learning curve
  • Efficient navigation
  • Responsive design
  • Consistent performance

Onboarding (10% of total score)
To evaluate the onboarding experience for each platform, I considered the following:

  • Availability of training videos
  • Access to templates
  • Interactive product tours
  • Chatbot assistance
  • Live webinars

Customer Support (10% of total score)
To assess each software provider’s customer support services, I considered the following:

  • 24/7 availability
  • Multiple support channels
  • Response time
  • Knowledge base resources
  • Personalized assistance

Value For Money (10% of total score)
To evaluate the value for money of each platform, I considered the following:

  • Competitive pricing
  • Feature-to-price ratio
  • Scalability of plans
  • Free trial offerings
  • Transparent pricing structure

Customer Reviews (10% of total score)
To get a sense of overall customer satisfaction, I considered the following when reading customer reviews:

  • Overall satisfaction rating
  • Mention of specific features
  • Feedback on support experience
  • Comments on usability
  • Reports of ROI or benefits

How to Choose Client Resource Management Software

It’s easy to get bogged down in long feature lists and complex pricing structures. To help you stay focused as you work through your unique software selection process, here’s a checklist of factors to keep in mind:

FactorWhat to Consider
ScalabilityCan the software grow with your business? Consider future needs, user limits, and data capacity. Ensure it can handle increased workload without needing a complete overhaul.
IntegrationsDoes it connect with your existing tools? Check for compatibility with software like email platforms, calendars, and accounting systems to avoid workflow disruptions.
CustomizabilityCan you tailor the software to fit your processes? Look for options to adjust workflows, fields, and reports to match your specific needs.
Ease of useIs it user-friendly for your team? Evaluate the learning curve and interface design to ensure quick adoption and minimal frustration.
Implementation and onboardingHow long does it take to get started? Consider the setup time and resources needed, including training materials like videos or guides to ease the transition.
CostDoes it fit your budget? Evaluate the total cost, including hidden fees, and compare it with the value it provides. Look for flexible pricing plans that suit your size.
Security safeguardsAre your data and privacy protected? Verify encryption standards, data backup procedures, and compliance with regulations like GDPR.

Client resource management software is constantly changing. Here are the latest trends that shape its future.

  • Integration with AI and Machine Learning: Artificial intelligence and machine learning are increasingly integrated into client resource management software. These technologies enable predictive analytics and smarter decision-making. 
  • Emphasis on Mobile Accessibility: Mobile accessibility has become a critical feature for client resource management software. Software now offers full functionality on smartphones and tablets, allowing for management on the go. 
  • Enhanced Data Security Measures: Data security is a top priority, with new encryption methods and multi-factor authentication becoming standard. These measures protect sensitive client information from breaches. 
  • Adoption of Virtual and Augmented Reality: Virtual and augmented reality are used for client demonstrations and product showcases. This immersive technology provides a unique way to engage clients and display resources. 
  • Shift Towards Customization and Personalization: The software now offers more customization options, making it easier to tailor to specific business needs. 

These developments set the stage for more dynamic and responsive client resource management.

What Is Client Resource Management Software?

Client resource management software is a tool that helps businesses organize and manage client interactions and data efficiently. Professionals like project managers, sales teams, and customer service reps typically use these tools to improve client relationships and boost productivity. Contact management, task automation, and reporting capabilities support businesses in handling client data and communication effectively. Overall, these tools simplify managing client relationships, saving time and enhancing business outcomes.

Features

When selecting client resource management software, keep an eye out for the following key features:

  • Contact management: Centralizes client information, making it easy to access and update client details.
  • Task automation: Automates repetitive tasks, saving time and reducing the chance of human error.
  • Reporting capabilities: Provides insights into client interactions and business processes through detailed reports.
  • Pipeline management: Helps track the progress of client deals and projects, ensuring nothing falls through the cracks.
  • Email marketing integration: Allows for the creation and management of email campaigns directly within the platform.
  • Customizable workflows: Enables users to tailor processes to fit their specific business needs and improve efficiency.
  • Mobile access: Provides the ability to manage client relationships on the go with a mobile-friendly interface.
  • Security safeguards: Ensures client data is protected with encryption and compliance with data privacy regulations.
  • Integration options: Offers compatibility with other tools and platforms, enhancing overall business operations.

Benefits

Implementing client resource management software provides several benefits for your team and your business. Here are a few you can look forward to:

  • Improved organization: Centralizes client data, making it easier for your team to access and manage information efficiently.
  • Increased productivity: Automates routine tasks, freeing up time for your team to focus on more important activities.
  • Enhanced communication: Facilitates better interaction with clients through integrated email and communication tools.
  • Better decision-making: Provides insights through detailed reports, helping you make informed business decisions.
  • Streamlined processes: Customizable workflows allow you to tailor processes to your specific needs, improving efficiency.
  • Greater mobility: Mobile access ensures your team can manage client relationships from anywhere, anytime.
  • Data security: Protects client information with security safeguards, ensuring compliance with data privacy regulations.

Costs & Pricing

Selecting client resource management software requires an understanding of the various pricing models and plans available. Costs vary based on features, team size, add-ons, and more. The table below summarizes common plans, their average prices, and typical features included in client resource management software solutions:

Plan Comparison Table for Client Resource Management Software

Plan TypeAverage PriceCommon Features
Free Plan$0Basic contact management, task automation, and limited reporting.
Personal Plan$5-$25/user/monthEnhanced contact management, email integrations, and basic analytics.
Business Plan$30-$60/user/monthAdvanced reporting, pipeline management, and customizable workflows.
Enterprise Plan$70-$120/user/monthFull suite of features, including AI-driven insights, advanced security, and premium support.

Client Resource Management Software FAQs

Here are some answers to frequently asked questions you may have about client resource management software and how it works:

What is the difference between CRM and ERP?

CRM and ERP systems aim to increase a company’s efficiency but differ in focus. CRM platforms concentrate on managing customer relationships, while ERP systems are designed to handle internal business processes. CRM solutions are typically used by customer service, marketing, and sales teams, whereas ERP systems are utilized by finance, inventory, and procurement departments.

Do I need client resource management software for my small business?

While startups might manage with basic contact management systems or spreadsheets, growing small businesses benefit from CRM software. A CRM system helps maintain a sales pipeline and supports customer retention goals. It provides a unified data source, ensuring that service and sales representatives have accurate information, which helps prevent disjointed customer experiences that can lead to dissatisfaction.

Are client resource management software integrations important?

Integrations are crucial as they enable different software tools to synchronize data, ensuring staff have access to accurate customer information across platforms. Integrations can reduce the need to switch between apps, thus enhancing productivity and efficiency. Native integrations and API access facilitate interoperability among various services. Common integrations include customer support tools, business phone systems, website analytics, social media channels, project management software, POS systems, e-commerce platforms, and team collaboration software.

What data security measures should I take with client resource management software?

CRM providers offer data security features such as two-factor authentication and user access management. Businesses should activate all available security options and adhere to best practices to prevent data breaches. Since several significant cybersecurity incidents involve third-party software, it’s important to thoroughly evaluate vendors, review their security protocols, and inquire about their data retention and backup policies.

What’s Next:

If you're in the process of researching cloud resource management software, connect with a SoftwareSelect advisor for free recommendations.

You fill out a form and have a quick chat where they get into the specifics of your needs. Then you'll get a shortlist of software to review. They'll even support you through the entire buying process, including price negotiations.

Hermann Fink
By Hermann Fink

Hermann Fink is a technology enthusiast and the co-founder of Rünna Advertising, a multinational digital agency that has been active for over a decade and served clients like Ford, AstraZeneca, Disney, and Didi. In addition to being a business owner, Hermann gathered corporate experience in project management during his time at Hewlett Packard in the mid-2010s.