Nexa Lab Blog – With the widespread availability of internet connectivity today, many software applications are becoming more online-first, and CRM software is no exception. Learn about CRM software offline through our comprehensive guide.

This doesn’t mean online CRM software or cloud-based CRM software is bad; they actually have their own set of benefits, like better accessibility.

However, being heavily dependent on one thing (like online CRM software) is not a good thing. Just like the wise man said, “don’t put all your eggs in one basket.”

That’s why CRM Software Offline offers an alternative solution for businesses. This doesn’t mean software that works exclusively without the internet, but rather CRM software that can work even when there is an internet outage.

So, now we are going to explore offline CRM software. Let’s start with the definition first.

What is Offline CRM Software?

Well…the answer is actually as literal as it is: CRM software that works offline without an internet connection.

In this category, CRM software offline stores data locally on your device, whether it is a PC or a server. However, offline CRM software doesn’t always mean it’s only working while you are off the internet. Sometimes, CRM software in this category will also sync when connected to the internet, but it still functions even without the internet.

Aside from that, offline CRM software is just the same as other CRM software you know.

It has functions like contact management, sales tracking, reporting capabilities, and other features that another CRM software has.

Now we know what CRM software offline is. The next question you have, maybe, is why?

If this software doesn’t have a specific distinction from the online one, why do we need a specific offline CRM software for business?

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Why Do You Need an Offline Version of CRM Software?

Since everything is online nowadays, having offline software might sound odd. However, as a business, you can’t jeopardise your whole operations just because there is an internet outage in a day, right?

That’s why offline CRM software (or the one that has offline capabilities) is the one that you might want to consider.

This is one of the big reasons you need CRM software offline. Since it can run without an internet connection, your business operations will run without disruption even when the global internet is down for a day.

Another important reason is also about data security.

CRM software can store sensitive data, like your customer’s personal information.

While online software solutions are relatively safe, we’ll never know when bad things happen; for example, a hacker managed to breach the software server. However, with the offline solution, you’ll have total control over your own security.

It still carries a risk, though, but this solution is a good option if you want to take security control into your own hands.

The last thing is about customisation and integration.

Most online CRM software is a ready-to-use kind of product, meaning you don’t have much control over customisation. With the CRM software offline, you’ll be able to do your own customisation and integration to make sure your software matches your own operational workflow.

Top Offline CRM Software Options

We already know the definition and reason why we need offline CRM software solutions. Then, what are the top options when you want to opt for offline CRM options?

There are several options to consider. Here are five top offline CRM solutions that cater to different business needs and preferences, according to SourceForge:

1. Salesforce Offline

Salesforce, a leader in the CRM industry, offers an offline version of its popular CRM platform.

Salesforce Offline allows you to access and update records, create new entries, and manage your sales pipeline without an internet connection. When you reconnect, the software automatically synchronises your changes with the cloud-based version, ensuring data consistency across your organisation.

This CRM software offline provides a familiar interface for existing Salesforce users, making it easy to transition between online and offline modes. It offers robust features for contact management, lead tracking, and sales forecasting, making it suitable for businesses of all sizes.

2. SugarCRM

SugarCRM is a versatile CRM solution that offers both cloud-based and on-premise deployments.

The on-premise version functions as an CRM software offline, allowing you to host the software on your own servers and access it without an internet connection. SugarCRM provides a comprehensive suite of tools for sales, marketing, and customer service management.

With SugarCRM, you can customize the platform to fit your specific business needs, integrate it with other business applications, and maintain full control over your data. It’s an excellent choice for businesses that require a high degree of flexibility and customisation in their CRM solution.

3. Dynamics 365 Offline

Microsoft’s Dynamics 365 CRM offers an offline mode that allows you to work with your customer data even when you’re not connected to the internet.

The CRM software offline functionality is particularly useful for field sales teams or employees who frequently work in areas with limited connectivity.

Dynamics 365 Offline provides access to contacts, accounts, opportunities, and other essential CRM data while offline. When you reconnect, the software automatically synchronises your changes with the online version. Its seamless integration with other Microsoft products makes it an attractive option for businesses already using the Microsoft ecosystem.

4. vTiger CRM

vTiger CRM is an open-source CRM solution that offers both cloud-based and on-premise deployments.

The on-premise version functions as an offline CRM, allowing you to host the software on your own servers and access it without an internet connection. vTiger provides a comprehensive suite of tools for sales, marketing, inventory management, and customer support.

As an open-source platform, vTiger offers extensive customisation options and a large community of developers contributing to its improvement. It’s an excellent choice for businesses looking for a cost-effective, flexible CRM solution with offline capabilities.

5. Creatio

Creatio is a process-driven CRM platform that offers both cloud-based and on-premise deployments. The on-premise version functions as an CRM software offline, allowing you to host the software on your own servers and access it without an internet connection. Creatio provides a unified platform for marketing, sales, and service automation, with a strong focus on business process management.

With Creatio, you can design and automate complex business processes, customize the platform to fit your specific needs, and maintain full control over your data. It’s an excellent choice for businesses that require a powerful, process-oriented CRM solution with offline capabilities.

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How to Choose the Right Offline CRM Software for Your Business

Okay, now we have all the CRM software offline options, but how do you choose the right one for your business?

Assuming you already know what your business needs and goals are, here are some aspects to consider when you want to choose offline CRM software:

• Offline Capabilities: Since we are talking about offline CRM software, this capability is the most important. Not every CRM software can work 100% when the internet goes offline. So you should check the offline capabilities of the software. What data can be stored offline? How’s the synchronisation process working? Are there any limitations when you are working offline with the software?
• Functionality: Assess the features and capabilities of each CRM software offline. Ensure that the software provides the tools you need to manage your customer relationships effectively, such as contact management, sales tracking, and reporting.
• Ease of Use: The CRM software should have an intuitive interface that your team can quickly learn and adopt. A user-friendly system will encourage widespread adoption and maximise the benefits of the CRM implementation.
• Customisation: Evaluate the extent to which you can customize the CRM software to fit your unique business processes and workflows. Look for solutions that offer flexibility in terms of fields, layouts, and reporting options.
• Integration: Consider how well the CRM software offline integrates with your existing business applications, such as email clients, accounting software, or marketing automation tools. Seamless integration can significantly enhance productivity and data consistency across your organisation. Though it doesn’t offer it off-the shelf, remember that you can always depend on an integration provider like Nexalab.
• Cost: Consider both the upfront costs and long-term expenses associated with the CRM software. Factor in licensing fees, hardware requirements, maintenance costs, and any potential customisation or integration expenses.

Conclusion

Now you know why offline CRM software can be an alternative solution for your business. Again, this doesn’t mean you should use CRM software that only works offline. It’s even better if you can choose the one that works both ways—online and offline—with synchronisation features.

Investing in CRM software is a smart move for any business looking to improve sales, marketing, and customer service.

However, to get the most out of your CRM, it needs to work with your other tools.

Nexalab’s App Integration Services can help you connect your CRM with other essential platforms, like PSA software, for example. This means you get a complete view of your customer data, automate repetitive tasks, and personalise your customer interactions. It’s a solution that helps you get the most out of your CRM investment. Contact Nexalab today to explore how App Fusion can drive your business forward.