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How to Choose the Right CRM for Your Business: A Practical Guide
At our consultancy, we work with many businesses that want to improve their customer relationships, but don't know where to start. One of the most powerful—and yet most underestimated—tools is CRM. But how do you choose the right CRM for your business without getting overwhelmed?
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make an informed decision (and avoid costly mistakes).
What is a CRM and why should you have one?
A CRM (Customer Relationship Management) is a system that helps you organize, automate, and synchronize all touchpoints with your customers: sales, marketing, customer service, and more.
In short, it's the digital heart of your customer relationships. And when used well, it can help you sell more, build stronger loyalty, and work with greater efficiency.
Step 1: Define Your Objectives
Before choosing any tool, you need to know what problem you want to solve. Are you looking to improve lead tracking? Do you want to automate email marketing campaigns? Do you need a 360º view of your customers?

Expert Tip: Make a list of your 3-5 most important needs. That list will be your compass.
Step 2: Assess Your Team and Digitalization Level
Not all CRMs are created equal, and not all teams are ready for complex tools. Some platforms are more technical, while others are more visual or intuitive.
Who will use it?
What is their level of digital experience?
Do we need a simple solution or something more robust?
Step 3: Choose Between Generalist or Specialized CRMs
There are all-purpose CRMs like HubSpot, Zoho, or Salesforce, which work for almost any type of company. And there are others specialized by sector (such as Hostaway for tourism, or Pipedrive for sales).

Studio Oriente Tip: If you are in a very specific sector, evaluate whether a vertical CRM exists that already understands your needs.
Step 4: Consider Scalability
Think not only about what you need today, but also what you will need in 1 or 2 years. Choosing a CRM that falls short too soon can be an expensive mistake.
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Does it allow adding users easily?
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Does it integrate with other tools we use (ERP, web, social media, etc.)?
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Does it have advanced modules or functionalities that we can activate later?
Step 5: Test before committing
Most CRMs offer demos or free, limited-time versions. Take advantage of these periods to test with your team in a real-world scenario.
Expert Tip: Don't make the decision alone. Involve those who will be using it. Listening to your team can save you many headaches later on.
Step 6: Calculate the Real Cost
Don't just look at the monthly price. Consider:
Implementation Costs
Team Training
Necessary Integrations
Technical Support

Studio East's Tip: Sometimes it's worth paying a bit more for a solution that comes well-integrated than opting for a cheaper one that later requires additional development.
And finally… don't do it alone
Choosing, implementing, and leveraging a CRM can be a game-changer for your company. However, it can also be overwhelming if you don't have the right support.
At Studio Oriente, we help you define your customer relationship strategy, choose the right tool, and implement it seamlessly, 100% adapted to your business.
Do you want us to help you choose your CRM?
Write to us and we'll schedule a no-obligation exploratory session. We'll help you digitize your customer relationships... without complicating your life.