Before import
Prepare data deliberately
- • Choose one primary company identifier.
- • Separate company and contact information.
- • Standardise status, owner and important dates.
- • Keep a recoverable copy of the original file.
CRM implementation
From scattered customer data to a working routine
A practical six-step implementation plan for smaller teams. Start with a clear process, clean data and real user testing.
- 1
Define the outcome
Decide which customer process should become clearer and how you will know that the change works.
- 2
Clean the source data
Remove obvious duplicates, agree on mandatory fields and decide which history is worth moving.
- 3
Configure a small workflow
Start with pipeline stages, responsibilities and activity types the team already understands.
- 4
Run a pilot
Let a small group work with real customers and record questions before the wider launch.
- 5
Train through real tasks
Practice creating customers, adding contacts, moving deals and scheduling follow-ups.
- 6
Review adoption
Check whether records are complete, follow-ups are planned and the overview supports decisions.
After launch
Measure behaviour, not logins alone
A login does not show whether the CRM supports the work. Review whether responsible users, next activities, contact details and deal stages are being maintained.