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What are CRM systems? A comparison with ERP, PLM, WMS

Author Beata Miętka Quality Assurance
Contemporary enterprises face challenges related to resource management, processes, and customer relationships. To effectively address these, business owners seek advanced information systems.

The most popular management systems:

The evolution of CRM systems has been significant over the years, transforming from basic customer databases to comprehensive CRM platforms that integrate various aspects of business operations. Today, CRM software is at the heart of customer relationship strategies, offering a wide range of CRM solutions tailored to meet the diverse needs of businesses.


These advancements in CRM tools have made it easier for companies to manage customer data, improve communication, and enhance overall customer satisfaction, making CRM an integral part of managing customer relationships and improving business processes.


Enterprises often make the decision to purchase a system based on recommendations or popularity, rather than actual needs. For example - a company chooses a CRM system, assuming it will be the perfect solution for all customer service problems, only to find out that most of the CRM software’s functions are not used daily.


Below you'll find a comparison of these four systems. I’ve analyzed their functions, applications, and benefits for enterprises. Delving into these topics provides a complete picture of how systems impact resource management, processes, and customer relationships.

Comparison of management systems: Customer Relationship Management (CRM), ERP, PLM, WMS

1. ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning)

The first systems of this type appeared in the 1960s - although they were not yet named as such. The term ERP emerged in the 1990s when comprehensive information solutions, covering key process management, began to develop.


Main ERP functions:



Application of ERP system


ERP systems can be used in any industry; in enterprises where there is a need to integrate management systems for all key business processes. These systems are most often implemented in manufacturing, logistics, service, and commercial enterprises.


Benefits of ERP system:


2. CRM (Customer Relationship Management)

The system evolved in the 1990s as a response to the growing demand of enterprises for managing customer relationships. At that time, they focused on collecting customer contact data. Over time, CRM systems have become more complex, offering functionalities supporting customer relationship management.


Main CRM functions:



Application of CRM software


CRM systems can be used in enterprises from various sectors aiming to improve customer service quality and better understand their needs. These systems are most commonly implemented in service companies, e-commerce, or retail trade. They are particularly beneficial for sales teams and the sales team in understanding customer needs and improving sales processes.


Benefits of CRM system:


3. PLM (Product Lifecycle Management)

The first systems of this type began to emerge in the 1990s when there was a demand for a comprehensive approach to managing the product lifecycle, starting from design, through production, to maintenance, and market withdrawal.


Main PLM functions:



Application of PLM software


PLM systems are mainly used in enterprises involved in high-complexity production with long life cycles or complex design processes. These systems are most often implemented in manufacturing, automotive, aviation, or electronics companies, as well as in industries where there is a need for comprehensive product lifecycle management.


Benefits of PLM system:


4. WMS (Warehouse Management System)

These systems also began to develop in the 1990s as a response to the need for better management of processes in warehouses and distribution centers.


Main WMS functions:



Application of WMS system


 WMS systems are mainly used in enterprises with warehouses or distribution centers, as well as trading companies, logistics and distribution businesses, or e-commerce.


Benefits of WMS system:


Summary

The above presents four types of systems supporting enterprise management. The decision regarding the choice of the right system depends on many factors, including the specifics of the enterprise's activities and the goals the company aims to achieve.


Often after such an analysis, a dedicated system turns out to be the best solution for the enterprise, which can be more tailored to specific requirements.


It's also worth noting that the enterprise may not fully use all the functionalities of a ready-made system, so it's crucial to match the system to the needs of the enterprise. It's important that the choice falls on a system that will effectively respond to the needs of the enterprise and contribute to the success and development of the company.


I encourage you to read the next article related to this topic: The 6 most important criteria for choosing a CRM system provider

Beata Miętka
Quality Assurance
Beata is a proficient QA expert with a strong background in physics. Her keen eye for detail and dedication to testing excellence, combined with her diverse interests, make her an invaluable asset in ensuring product quality.
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No match? Go custom.

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