Commence Corporation Says Companies Need to Standardize the Selling Process

Aug. 13, 2009 - PRLog -- TINTON FALLS, N.J. - Commence Corporation, a leading provider of customer relationship management (CRM) software solutions designed specifically for small- to mid-size businesses, today released a new white paper titled “The Clear Cut Advantages of Standardizing the Selling Process.” The first in Commence’s new Corporate Tips series, the paper details how companies can achieve better sales results through the implementation of a standardized sales process.

Most organizations have various automated business processes and systems already in place, such as those in accounting and purchasing departments. Yet, many organizations acknowledge that they do not have documented formal sales processes. Businesses without documented sales processes often share common problems, such as lengthy timeframes to find and nurture prospects as well as close sales.  Following a consistent process allows companies to more easily analyze key events and recognize what is working and what is not.

“Better preparation, deeper research and clearer goals produce a more effective sales team and better results. With standardized processes, managers can more easily determine how each sales rep is performing.  Having a definite plan on when and how to give demonstrations, prepare a proposal or send a sample helps sales reps to proactively control the sales process,” commented Larry Caretsky, CEO of Commence Corporation.

The paper examines the steps on executing a sales process – documenting the process, designing the implementation, training the sales team and supporting the implementation. A crucial element is support from management. A recent study found that when sales training is reinforced by management, productivity could permanently increase by 15 percent.  

The white paper notes that the biggest challenge with adopting a new sales process is getting everyone to follow it.  A CRM system, such as Commence OnDemand, can guide and reinforce automated sales processes. A system that can prompt a user to enter required information before moving to the next sales strategy is an efficient way to help sales staff follow procedure.  Standard reports and online visibility, available with a CRM, enables managers to monitor the progress of opportunities over time.  Both the manager and the sales person can identify when opportunities have stalled and can work to resolve any relevant issues.

“Commence has 22 years of experience delivering its proven CRM solutions and customers can be assured that Commence OnDemand offers the best  tools for monitoring sales processes. Thousands of small- to mid-size companies rely on us for managing and sharing customer information and supporting sales processes,” continued Caretsky.

With capabilities that rival many enterprise-level solutions, Commence OnDemand provides a central database for capturing, managing and sharing vital customer information. It enables sales departments to establish structured sales processes and automate follow-up activities such as calls, letters, literature fulfillment and workflow automation. Sales management functions provide the ability to monitor and measure sales representative performance. A flexible, web-based solution, Commence OnDemand provides automatic updates and enhancements and seamlessly integrates with both PC and Mac operating systems.

Product and pricing information can be accessed at www.commence.com.

More About Commence Corporation
Founded in 1988, Commence develops and delivers a diverse suite of award-winning CRM products that integrate people, processes and technology. Delivered via the popular software-as-a-service (SaaS) model or implemented as on-premise licensed software, Commence’s CRM solutions are used by thousands of companies to streamline sales and customer service front-office business processes. As a result, Commence clients increase workforce productivity, generate positive customer interactions, and reduce costs. More information about Commence can be accessed at www.commence.com.

Note to editors:  Trademarks and registered trademarks referenced herein remain the property of their respective owner.

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Commence® Corporation is a leading software manufacturer specializing in Customer Relationship Management and Business Process Automation software. Since its founding in 1988, the company has remained focused on providing software solutions that streamline the front office business processes that directly impact sales execution and customer service.

Commence offers a diverse suite of products that integrate people, processes and technology for improved agility and business performance. The company’s flagship product Commence RM, provides a suite of fully integrated applications for sales, marketing and customer support and may be deployed on premise or on demand as a managed service over the Internet.