Find the perfect-fit cloud CRM for your business

No. While Excel spreadsheets can be an effective tool for collecting and organizing customer data, CRM systems offer several other features, including scheduling, reminders, histories, analytics, pipeline management, automation, and segmentation. Modern CRM platforms also easily integrate with other commonly used tools. So, it’s better to avoid using Excel as a CRM database. Learn more in this article.

CRM is an abbreviation and means Customer Relationship Management and refers to a software system used to build and manage customer relationships. A CRM helps businesses manage all their interactions with their existing and potential customers by recording and tracking customer details and preferences. This ensures customers receive a personalized and consistent experience every time they engage with a business. CRM software also helps organizations streamline their processes and workflows to improve productivity and cut costs. The overall aim of CRM software is to provide more engaging customer experiences, increase customer loyalty and retention and drive business growth and profitability. Check out What is CRM? to learn more.

Collecting and organizing customer data offers an efficient and unified view of each customer. Also, it helps you understand customer preferences, purchase habits, and challenges. Analyzing CRM data can even help forecast future demand and sales trends.

The CRM database platform you choose should come with features, such as automation, contact management, lead management, segmentation, reporting, and analytics. Another key consideration would be its compatibility with your existing tech stack. Find out if it offers integrations with the tools you already use. Check out this helpful guide to learn more.

Unlike many one-size-fits-all CRMs, Act! was built specifically for small and midsized businesses that want powerful capabilities without enterprise-level complexity or costs. It combines CRM, marketing automation, and email marketing in one platform, giving you the tools to manage relationships and drive growth—without needing multiple systems or expensive add-ons. Act! also offers flexible deployment (cloud or on-premises), so you can choose what fits your business best.

Yes. Act! is known for its unmatched flexibility and customization. You can tailor fields, layouts, and processes to fit the way your business works instead of changing your business to fit the software. With features like Custom Tables, you can track unique industry-specific data—whether you’re in financial services, manufacturing, real estate, or another field—making Act! adaptable to nearly any workflow.

Act! offers live customer support with a team that understands the needs of SMBs. In addition to online resources and a robust knowledge base, you can access phone, chat, and email support. Depending on your plan, you’ll also have options for enhanced support—ensuring you always have expert guidance when you need it.

No. But, unlike many CRM providers that charge extra for onboarding, Act! includes complimentary onboarding with a live product expert for every new customer. You’ll be guided step-by-step through setup, data import, and key features tailored to your business needs. This ensures you and your team can hit the ground running and start getting value from Act! right away—without hidden fees or upsells.