20 Best Client Resource Management Software Of 2024
Best Client Resource Management Software Shortlist
Here’s my pick of the 10 best software from the 20 tools reviewed.
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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.
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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.
| Tools | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Nimble | From $25/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| Streak | From $49/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| Drip | From $39/month | Website |
| Zendesk Sell | From $19/user/month | Website |
| Keap | From $249/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| Bitrix24 | From $49/month (max of 5 users) | Website |
| Agile CRM | From $8.99/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| Nutshell | From $19/user/month | Website |
| Apptivo | From $20/user/month | Website |
| ActiveCampaign | From $20/month (billed annually) | Website |
Compare Software Specs Side by Side
Use our comparison chart to review and evaluate software specs side-by-side.
Compare SoftwareHow To Choose Client Resource Management Software
Remember the following points as you work through your unique software selection process.
- Identify Specific Needs: Understand your business's challenges and requirements before exploring options. For instance, a marketing agency might need software with contact management features to track client interactions. You can narrow your search to solutions tailored to your industry and operational demands by pinpointing these needs.
- Ease of Use: The software should be user-friendly to ensure all team members can adapt quickly without extensive training. A user-friendly interface is particularly important for businesses with a high turnover rate or frequently onboard new clients.
- Integration Capabilities: Integration with other tools and systems is essential. For example, a retail business may require software that connects with its existing inventory management system to provide real-time updates.
- Scalability: The chosen software should grow with your business. A startup might initially need a basic client resource management system, but as it expands, the software must be capable of accommodating an increasing number of clients and more complex operations.
- Support and Training: Adequate support and training resources are vital to swiftly resolve any issues and get the most out of the software. For instance, a business that operates globally would benefit from a software provider that offers 24/7 support.
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Wrike
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.2 -
Hub Planner
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.2 -
Miro
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.8
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.
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
Why I Picked Nutshell:
I chose Nutshell for its powerful sales automation, easy-to-use interface, email sync, and custom reporting. Its sales automation features streamline workflows, reducing manual tasks and allowing sales teams to focus more on closing deals.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include efficient sales automation, customizable reporting, email sync, pipeline and contact management, and team collaboration tools.
Integrations include Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, QuickBooks, Slack, Mailchimp, Zapier, Zendesk, Intercom, Unbounce, and Wufoo.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Custom reporting features
- Strong sales automation
- Intuitive user interface
Cons:
- No free plan available
- Limited advanced features
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
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
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!
- Insightly
Best for B2B customer experiences
- Capsule
Best for ease of use and flexibility
- Zoho CRM
Best for omnichannel management
- HubSpot
Best for inbound marketing synergy
- Copper CRM
Best for Google Workspace integration
- Pipedrive
Best for visual sales pipelines
- Freshworks
Best for intuitive user experience
- HoneyBook
Best for freelancers and solopreneurs
- Salesforce Financial Services Cloud
Best for scalable enterprise solutions
- monday.com
Best for customizable workflows
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Client Resource Management Software Selection Criteria
When selecting client resource management software, it’s important to consider functionality and how well it addresses specific use cases.
As someone who has personally tried and researched these tools, I have developed a set of criteria for evaluating client resource management software.
Core Client Resource Management Software Functionality: 25% of Total Weighting Score
- Centralized client data repository
- Contact management capabilities
- Interaction tracking and history
- Task and appointment scheduling
- Reporting and analytics tools
Additional Standout Features: 25% of Total Weighting Score
- Innovative dashboard customization options
- Advanced automation for client communication
- Unique integration capabilities with business tools
- Proprietary algorithms for client behavior prediction
- Exceptional mobile application features
Usability: 10% of Total Weighting Score
- Intuitive navigation and user interface
- A balance between features and simplicity
- Aesthetic design that encourages user engagement
- Responsive design for various device types
Onboarding: 10% of Total Weighting Score
- Availability of step-by-step guides and tutorials
- Interactive product tours for hands-on learning
- Access to a library of templates for quick setup
- Support channels like chatbots and webinars for real-time assistance
Customer Support: 10% of Total Weighting Score
- Responsiveness and availability of support teams
- Multiple channels for support (phone, email, live chat)
- Quality of troubleshooting resources and FAQs
- Commitment to customer success through regular follow-ups
Value For Money: 10% of Total Weighting Score
- Transparent pricing models
- Comparison of feature sets relative to cost
- The flexibility of subscription plans to fit various business sizes
- Assessment of long-term ROI potential
Customer Reviews: 10% of Total Weighting Score
- Consistency of positive feedback across diverse industries
- Real-world testimonials on software reliability and performance
- Analysis of common praises and criticisms
- Trends in customer satisfaction over time
By carefully evaluating these criteria, you can ensure that your chosen client resource management software meets your needs and provides an excellent user experience, solid support, and value for money.
Trends In Client Resource Management Software
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 digital platform that manages and analyzes customer interactions and data throughout the client lifecycle. Businesses use it to improve client relationships, focusing on client retention and driving sales growth.
Sales teams, marketing professionals, and customer service representatives use client resource management software to simplify processes, maintain client information, and track client interactions. The software consolidates client data across different channels or points of contact between the customer and the company. It comprises contact management, interaction tracking, lead management, email automation, and analytics.
Features Of Client Resource Management Software
When selecting client resource management software, it's important to consider the features that will most effectively support your business's needs. Here, I'll discuss the top features to look for in this type of software.
- Contact Management: CRM software centralizes client information. This feature allows efficient client data tracking and retrieval, essential for personalized communication and service.
- Interaction Tracking: This tool logs every interaction with clients. Keeping a record of all communications helps ensure nothing falls through the cracks and enables better client support.
- Pipeline Management: The software streamlines the tracking of potential clients. Businesses can increase conversion rates by effectively managing leads and ensuring no missed opportunities.
- Email Integration: This tool syncs with email platforms. This integration allows the management of email correspondence within the CRM, providing a complete view of client communications.
- Document Management: CRM software organizes client-related documents. Having all client documents in one place ensures team members can access and collaborate on the latest versions.
- Workflow Automation: It automates repetitive tasks. By automating tasks such as data entry and report generation, staff can focus on more strategic activities that require human insight.
- Analytics and Reporting: It provides insights into client data. Analytics help understand client behaviors and preferences, enabling data-driven metrics and decision-making to improve client relationships.
- Mobile App: This allows users to access CRM data on the go. Mobile access via an iPhone or Android phone is increasingly important for professionals managing clients while away from the office.
- Customization: Tailoring the software to specific business needs ensures that the CRM aligns with a business's unique processes and workflows. This is crucial for maximizing its benefits.
- Third-party Integration: This involves connecting with other business tools such as marketing or finance software to create a more cohesive technology ecosystem. Integrations increase team productivity.
- Notifications: Alerts or messages that inform users about updates, reminders, or important events within the software.
- Routing: Directing data or tasks to specific destinations or through a specified path within a system.
- Sales Forecasting: Estimating future sales revenue based on historical data, market analysis, and sales trends.
Focusing on these key features ensures that your chosen solution will provide the necessary support to maintain and grow your client relationships. Remember, the goal is to find a tool that fits well with your business processes and improves your ability to serve your clients.
Benefits Of Client Resource Management Software
Client resource management software offers a range of features that can benefit users and organizations in various ways. Here are five primary benefits that potential buyers should consider.
- Centralized Client Information: Having all client data in one place simplifies access and management. The software ensures that users can quickly find and manage client details, leading to better organization and time management.
- Improved Communication: The software improves interactions with clients. It provides prompt and organized communication, enhancing relationships and satisfaction.
- Enhanced Efficiency: Automating tasks like scheduling, follow-ups, and data entry reduces the time spent on administrative work. This allows users to focus on more strategic activities.
- Data-Driven Insights: This software offers analytics for better decision-making. Its built-in analytics tools provide valuable insights into client behavior and preferences.
- Scalability: As a business expands, the software can easily accommodate more clients and complex operations. This ensures that the business can scale without outgrowing its client management system.
Client resource management software offers a structured approach to managing client interactions, which can lead to improved business outcomes. By investing in such a system, organizations can expect a return of more satisfied clients, streamlined operations, and a stronger bottom line.
Costs & Pricing For Client Resouce Management Software
Client Resource Management (CRM) software varies widely in features and pricing, catering to businesses of all sizes, from startups to large enterprises. Understanding the different plan options and pricing is crucial for software buyers new to CRM solutions.
Below is a summary of the plan options and their pricing, formatted in a table for clarity.
Plan Comparison Table for Client Resource Management Software
| Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features |
| Free | $0 | Basic CRM functionalities, contact management, lead tracking, limited number of users |
| Entry-Level | $23 | Essential CRM features, automation of basic workflows, email marketing, customer support |
| Midtier | $102 | Advanced automation, customizable dashboards, multiple sales pipelines, AI-powered sales insights |
| High-tier | $403 | Customization, advanced automation, comprehensive analytics, unlimited users |
When selecting a CRM plan, consider the size of your team, the level of customization you require, and your budget. Free plans are suitable for small businesses or those just starting with CRM, while paid plans offer more features and scalability for growing businesses.
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.
Can client resource management software be customized?
Many CRM systems offer customization options to fit specific business needs, such as custom fields, modules, workflows, and integrations with other tools.
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