Why HydraNet?
How CRM-gx™ account management, reporting, and lead management systems
drive value.
Read Before You Buy
Few CRM buyers are aware of these surprising facts. What you learn
may make the difference between the success and failure of your CRM
implementation.
CRM Success Secrets
Tools like MTS® makes recording interactions with customers a snap.
CRM-gx™ Brochure
Detailed overview of CRM-gx™, requires PDF Reader.
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I have a question about:
CRM in general, advantages of CRM-gx
Q. What is CRM-gx?
A. CRM is an acronym for "Customer Relationship Management," while "gx"
stands for "global exchange." CRM-gx is the world's first and only multilingual,
multi-currency, multi-timezone, completely Web-based total business management
solution. It excels at bringing together far-flung work forces, thus allowing
your organization to function as an integrated whole. Back to top
Q. What is CRM?
A. Volumes have been written about what Customer Relationship Management
means and how it is used. CRM is process of recording, storing, analyzing
and using customers information to increase loyalty, sales and profitability.
The objective is to collect and then use information about your customers
to offer the right product or service to the right customer at the right
time, increasing profitability and customer satisfaction. Back to top
Q. How do I get access to CRM-gx?
A. CRM-gx can be accessed from the Internet, so there's no need to install
software or buy hardware. The only requirement is that you have a Windows-based
PC with Microsoft Internet Explorer version 5.0 or higher. To get started,
simply signup and then login using the information we supply. Back to top
Q. Why use CRM-gx instead of ACT or a Contact Manager like Microsoft
Outlook?
A. Contact management is just one piece of the puzzle. CRM-gx offers the
ability to track and manage contacts, appointments, group calendars, tasks,
orders, customer support, marketing campaigns, leads, deal pipelines, reporting
and analytics, email, inventory, invoicing, and more. CRM-gx can manage
your business, not just your contacts. Back to top
Q. You say CRM-gx is fast and easy. Can you give me an example?
A. One example is our "Keyboardless" data entry technology. Recognizing
that busy people often refuse to do data entry, CRM-gx enables many tasks
to be done with just a few mouse clicks. In benchmarked tests, CRM-gx has
proven up to 500% faster than other CRM systems. This means you spend less
time entering data and more time focusing on your core business. For more
information, please view the series of online videos here. Show
me. Back to top
Q. What is the advantage of a web-based CRM system like CRM-gx over a
client-based system (where you install software on your PC) ?
A. CRM-gx can be accessed from any Web browser, which means there is no
software to purchase, install, upgrade or maintain. With a client-based
system, every time you want to add a new user, you must install a new copy
of the software on a PC somewhere in the world. For both large and small
organizations, this process is costly and a burden on your IT staff. It
also means another application to maintain, upgrade, and configure. With
CRM-gx, adding another user anywhere in the world means issuing a login
and password. You can also access CRM-gx from any PC in the world, as long
as you have Microsoft IE and a connection to the Web. Back to top
Q. What other advantages does CRM-gx's web-based architecture offer?
A. Since there is no software to install, the entire system can be deployed
almost instantly across your organization. There's no need to buy hardware,
software, servers, database licenses, or waste precious IT resources. CRM-gx's
web-based solution also means that your organization stays connected around
the world at local Internet connection rates, which is far less expensive
than installing the dedicated lines, frame-relay, or VPN connections required
by client-based systems. Back to top
Q.Since CRM-gx runs over the Internet, won't it be slow?
A.CRM-gx is designed to run quickly over the Internet because there are
no heavy graphics to slow down the application. Still, we recommend at least
a 128k connection and obviously the faster connection, the better the response.
CRM-gx can be operated at slower speeds but we recommend you upgrade to
broadband if you are currently using a dialup modem to connect to the Internet
Back to top
Q. We need to reduce our IT costs, not spend more money. How can I justify
spending money on CRM-gx?
A. CRM-gx allows you to cut your IT costs by eliminating the need for the
hardware, software, and IT support staff currently occupied with managing
your customer data. Based on our client experience, a typical midsize firm
with 10 offices can save up to $760,000 per year by implementing CRM-gx.
Even small businesses find they reduce their overall IT expenditures by
implementing CRM-gx. More importantly, after using CRM-gx for only a week,
many clients experience improved sales performance, increase customer loyalty
and lower customer service costs. HydraNet offers a free one month trial
of CRM-gx so you can experience its benefits risk free. Back to top
Q. In the past, my staff has refused to use CRM and our implementations
have failed. Why will CRM-gx be any different?
A. Users often resist entering data into a CRM system and, consequently,
the implementation fails. CRM-gx, by contrast, eliminates the heavy burden
of data entry. Many tasks can be completed with just a few mouse clicks.
In fact, you can log everything you did on an average business day in less
than 5 minutes. When users try the system and see that it really is a 5
minute-a-day investment, they are often sold on CRM-gx, without the need
for strong management pressure. Back to top
Q. Every CRM system we've reviewed claims their system is Web-enabled,
Web-based, or Web-driven. What's the difference and should I care?
A. Web-enabled means the product was designed to work in another environment,
but was adapted to run on the Web. Web-enabled products perform poorly when
accessed over the Web. In addition, these products cannot be operated with
just an Internet connection and a browser. They require software, which
means you're still burdened with software installation, maintenance, and
upgrades. Many companies claim their products are Internet-based or Web-based
when, in fact, they are merely Web-enabled. There is a very significant
difference and it's important to clarify this. To find out, ask if the product
can be run using just a browser and an Internet connection. If not, you
know you are going to have the same IT management issues and the burden
of installed software. CRM-gx requires only a browser and an Internet connection
to operate, eliminating software management and reducing IT costs. Back to top
Q. We are a small-to-midsize company, not a Fortune 500 company. Is CRM-gx
a product we should consider?
A. CRM-gx was designed to bring the functionality and power of corporate
CRM packages to small and mid-sized businesses.
While some functionality is targeted at
large enterprise use, we strongly recommend the system to small and mid-sized
firms. We give you the flexibility to start small and scale as your company
grows. Back to top
Q. What is unique about CRM-gx?
A. While CRM-gx has many unique and powerful features, our key selling point
is CRM-gx requires just 5 minutes a day of your time to deliver powerful
business results. CRM-gx is exceptionally fast, easy-to-use and tasks have
been automated. View online videos showing CRM-gx in action and see for
yourself how easy the system is to use. Show me. Back to top
CRM-gx functionality and features
Q. I'm looking for more than a 5-minute solution. I need a system I can
use everyday to help manage my business.
A. The "5 minute solution" refers to the amount of time users invest entering
data into the system. There is certainly no limit to the amount of time
you can spend using the system to improve and analyze your business. CRM-gx
offers a Web-based total business management solution. Here are just a sample
of the functions included in the system:
Q. We have trouble keeping our customer account data updated and clean.
We also can't track our activities by client. How can CRM-gx help?
A. The core of CRM-gx is a highly sophisticated Account Management system.
Every transaction, email, phone call, fax, document, visit, essentially
any contact between you and your clients is stored and tracked in the
CAL (Client Activity Log). One click on the History button next to an
account or client name and you can see the entire history of transactions
and activities with any individual or account. Back to top
Q. We've got record duplication problems in our current database. How
can CRM-gx help?
A. CRM-gx automatically checks for potential duplicate records based on
name, zip code, and telephone matches as you enter new records. The system
catches potential duplicates before they're entered. Back to top
Q. I need CRM for reporting and forecasting. What can CRM-gx do in
these areas?
A. CRM-gx has the most powerful, easy-to-use business reporting and analytics
systems available. You can analyze your business by geographical region,
business unit, product, product line, or even by employee. Select a date
range, the criteria you wish to analyze, the format for the report, and
click a button. HydraNet delivers the results in seconds. There are over
280 preset reports that quickly produce the forecasts and charts you need
to make the right management decisions. Back to top
Q. Can I allow my suppliers or clients to use CRM-gx?
A. Limited access can be given so your suppliers and clients can see invoices,
completed payments, as well as a list of your products and services. Back to top
Q. Can I use our own company logo on the invoices and purchase orders?
A.You can upload a logo for invoices and purchase orders. The maximum
logo size is 600x85 pixels in gif or jpeg format. Back to top
Q. We need to develop effective cross-selling, upselling, and one-to-one
marketing strategies. What can CRM-gx do in this area?
A. CRM-gx is the only web-based CRM system to include enterprise-ready
marketing tools. For the first time, your team has the tools it needs
to improve your marketing effectiveness significantly. CRM-gx gives you
instant access to client-groups you want to target, based on the criteria
you set. Sell the right product or service to the right consumer at the
right time. CRM-gx delivers on the promise of one-to-one marketing without
the hassle. For more information on our cross-selling and upselling systems,
setup a Trial CRM-gx account and view the video help for these marketing
tools. Back to top
Q. What does CRM-gx have in terms of collaboration tools?
A. CRM-gx enables a whole new range of collaboration and sharing across
your organization. Around your office or around the globe, share any document
or file, including calendars, tasks, deals, reports, leads, and client
data.Then, go beyond sharing data and share your thoughts using the Integrated
Enterprise Messaging system. It keeps your team communicating in real-time
anywhere you have an Internet connection. Back to top
Data Security and Scalability
Q. We're concerned about data security, both in terms of transmitting
our corporate data over the Internet and having our data hosted offsite.
What can you tell us to allay our concerns?
A. HydraNet has achieved a 99.9% scheduled uptime level since beginning
service in 2001. Our systems utilize advanced RAID and mirroring technologies
and are highly redundant and fault tolerant. Already, hundreds of clients
around the world trust their data to HydraNet CRM-gx. At the same time,
to ensure your peace of mind, HydraNet can provide a complete weekly download
of all your company data. Additionally, we offer available 128-bit Secure
Socket Layer connections between you and the server, which ensures that
all the data transmitted remains strictly private. SSL encyption is the
same type of technology used by e-commerce websites to protect credit
card security during online e-commerce transactions and is considered
highly secure. Back to top
Q. How scalable is CRM-gx?
A. The system can serve up to 100,000 users at a single client, and is
currently in use by multinationals with many offices around the world.
The limits on scalability are limited only by the server hardware, memory,
and bandwidth. Current maximum size for a single table in the CRM-gx database
is 16TB (terabytes). Since the data is distributed in multiple tables,
the maximum database size is a multiple of that. Back to top
Q. Is my data and data transfer secure on your servers?
A. HydraNet offers an available SSL (Secure Socket Layer) connection,
which means that all data traffic between you and the server is encrypted
at 128-bit resolution. HydraNet takes great care to ensure the safety
of your data. Our datacenter uses fault-tolerant RAID, mirroring and offsite
backups, and we deliver full weekly backups for clients who require this
extra level of insurance. Back to top
Import, Export and Exchange of data with other systems
Q. We'd like to integrate CRM-gx into our legacy systems, including
ERP and SCM. Is this possible?
A. CRM-gx is typically a hosted solution but it can be run locally at
your site and integrated into your legacy systems. Contact your HydraNet
consultant for more information. Back to top
Q. Can CRM-gx be integrated into our existing legacy systems?
A. HydraNet clients frequently ask us to integrate CRM-gx into their backoffice
and frontoffice systems. These include various Accounting, ERP, SCM, Order
Taking, and Inventory Management systems. In the event that you need CRM-gx
integrated into your legacy systems, you may also opt to have a local
CRM-gx server installed at your site. For more information on these services,
contact us here. Back to top
Mobile Support
Q. Can I synchronize CRM-gx with my Palm, Windows CE, Laptop, or Cell
Phone?
A. CRM-gx can be synchronized with any device or platform that can synchronize
with Microsoft Outlook. You first synchronize between CRM-gx and Outlook,
and then synchronize your device with Outlook. CRM-gx is also the world's
first and only company to offer CRM services via your Cell Phone. This
is available to users in the U.S via the AT&T
Wireless mMode service, and in Japan via the Docomo i-mode and J-Phone
J-Sky Services. This mobile interface allows you to access the key tools
of CRM-gx from your cell phone. Browse and update customer information,
appointments, tasks, deals, products, and inventory from anywhere within
the service area. There is no additional charge for accessing your account
via your Cell Phone, and is included as part of the CRM-gx service. Back to top
Q. Can I export data from CRM-gx?
A. CRM-gx can quickly export your data based on the data fields and criteria
you set. Data is exported in standard CSV (Comma Separated Values) format
for easy use in other applications or for analysis in Microsoft Excel.
In the case of Contacts, Appointments, Tasks, and Address book records,
you can export from CRM-gx to Microsoft Outlook with just a few mouse
clicks. This insures that CRM-gx fits seamlessly into your organization's
current business environment. Back to top
Q. Who is authorized to import and export data?
A. By default, anyone in your organization can import and export data
using CRM-gx. If you need to limit this capability, please contact your
consultant here. Back to top
Q. What types of data can CRM-gx import?
A. CRM-gx can import directly from Microsoft Outlook, or it can import
data saved in a CSV (Comma Separated Values) format. Many programs, including
Palm, Microsoft Excel, and Microsoft Access can create CSV data files.
Back to top
Q. What kinds of data can be imported into CRM-gx?
A. CRM-gx can import tasks, contacts, appointments, Windows Address Book
data, and email from Microsoft Outlook with just a few mouse clicks. In
the case of importing CSV (Comma Separated Values) data, you can import
contacts, company, and product data. Importing your historical ordering
and transaction information can be done but this will depend on what type
of data your current system uses. In the event that you need to import
other legacy data into CRM-gx please contact your HydraNet consultant
here. Back to top
Q. How can I import my existing data into CRM-gx?
A. You can easily import your client data into CRM-gx. If your client
data is currently in a database or application, you can export that data
into Microsoft Excel and then save it as a CSV (Comma Separated Value)
file. CRM-gx can then import this CSV file quickly and easily. If you
have custom database fields, these can also be quickly setup in CRM-gx.
When you import your data, you can define exactly how your data is organized
and which fields you store. If your data resides in Microsoft Outlook,
CRM-gx can import directly from Outlook with just a few mouse clicks. Back to top
Q. Can HydraNet help me import my data?
A. Yes, HydraNet offers various consulting, support, and implementation
options. Please contact your HydraNet consultant here.
Back to top
Customer Support, System Requirements, and Training
Q. How long does it take to learn the system?
A. CRM-gx is easy to use and understand. Most clients are comfortable
with the system in less than an hour. They can perform sophisticated functions
after just a few hours. There is a text based help system and an online
video help system to provide instant training to flatten the learning
curve. Back to top
Q. Is additional training available?
A. HydraNet can provide both remote and onsite training for your company.
Contact your HydraNet consultant here. Back to top
Q. Do I need my IT manager's help to use CRM-gx?
A. Generally not. CRM-gx has wizards which help configure the system for
you automatically. It's also very easy to import your existing client
data into the system. For companies that plan to use the system at multiple
locations, a HydraNet consultant an help you. HydraNet offers various
implementation and assistance plans. Contact your HydraNet consultant
here. Back to top
Q. What are the system requirements for CRM-gx?
A. A PC running Microsoft Windows and Internet Explorer version 5.0 or
higher. Back to top
Q. Why don't you support Macintosh?
A. Microsoft Internet Explorer for Macintosh does not support many of
the technologies used by CRM-gx. In the future we may develop a Macintosh-friendly
version of the system depending on the demand from our users. Back to top
Q. Why can't I use Netscape Navigator or another non-IE browser?
A. CRM-gx uses some HTML tags and tools which are not supported on non-IE
browsers. In order to deliver the best possible user experience, we have
decided to standardize CRM-gx to run on IE only. Back to top
Q. How can I get Customer Support?
A. When you sign up for CRM-gx, you select the service plan best suited
to your company and budget. For more information on our support options,
please contact your HydraNet consultant
here. Back to top
Q. Do I need to pay for software updates and upgrades?
A. No. CRM-gx is constantly being improved and new features are added,
but there is no charge for these updates. Back to top
Support for a Mobile Workforce
Q. Our salesforce is spends much of its time on the road. How do you
support a mobile workforce?
A. If your salespeople carry a laptop, they can work offline in MS Outlook
and synchronize with CRM-gx when they have access to the Internet CRM-gx
synchronizes with Outlook Tasks, Calendar, Contacts, Email, as well as
the Windows Address Book. If you prefer to use your Palm, Windows CE,
Blackberry, or any other Outlook-sync compatible device, that will also
allow you to exchange data with CRM-gx. CRM-gx is also the world's first
and only company to offer CRM services via your Cell Phone. This is available
to users in the U.S via the AT&T Wireless mMode service, and in Japan
via the Docomo i-mode and J-Phone J-Sky Services. These cutting edge technologies
allow you to access virtually all the key tools of CRM-gx from your cell
phone, allowing you to browse and update customer information, appointments,
tasks, and deals. Learn more about the AT&T Wireless mMode service here. Back to top
Q. We're using Microsoft Outlook. I don't want to have to enter data
twice. Also, what about my PDA and cellular phone?
A. Many businesses today use Outlook and Microsoft Exchange to handle
calendars, contacts, email and tasks. CRM-gx synchronizes with Outlook
so that any data you enter into either system can be quickly exported
into the other. Palm, Windows CE, and virtually any other Outlook-compatible
device can also synchronize with CRM-gx with just a few mouse clicks.
CRM-gx is also the world's first and only company to offer CRM services
via your Cell Phone. This is available to users in the U.S via the AT&T
Wireless mMode service, and in Japan via the Docomo i-mode and J-Phone
J-Sky Services. These cutting edge technologies allow you to access the
key tools of CRM-gx from your cell phone. These gateways give you the
ability to browse and update customer information, appointments, tasks,
and deals. The PDA and Cell Phone are replacing laptops as the primary
information management tool for today's mobile workforce. CRM-gx empowers
your mobile devices by putting your corporate data and schedule at your
fingertips, wherever you go. Back to top
Customization and Administration
Q. Our company has a complex workflow process. Can your system to be
customized to meet our needs?
A.CRM-gx solves your workflow and pipeline tracking issues with a combination
of our patent-pending 5 Star System and powerful analytics reporting.
Our 5 Star System allows you to track deals throughout their lifecycle,
insuring that nothing falls through the cracks. The CRM-gx 5 Star System
also allows you to track, assess, and act on opportunities quickly, resulting
in more deals closed. Back to top
Q. What parts of CRM-gx can be customized?
A. CRM-gx is highly flexible and customizable, and can be tailored to
the needs of virtually any business or industry. Most importantly, customers
can customize their own work environment. The Deal system allows you to
customize workflow, and the database allows you to create and change fields
quickly and easily. You are in control of the type of data you store,
view, and analyze. Back to top
Q. What is the job of the CRM-gx System Administrator?
A. The Administrator is in charge of managing your CRM configuration and
implementation. He will personalize the system for your company, setting
time zones, default currencies, and so on. This Administrator can also
add custom fields to the system, add and remove users, and set new logins
and passwords. We recommend you select someone in your IT group who understands
your business to assist with this role. If you don't have an IT department,
anyone familiar with your business and comfortable with the Internet should
have no trouble fulfilling that role. We can also manage this process
for you by assigning one of our experienced professionals to act as your
Administrator. Please contact your HydraNet consultant for more information.
Back to top
Billing and Accounting
Q. How can I sign up and pay for CRM-gx?
A. For accounts with fewer than 25 users, you can pay for your licenses by credit card. If you have more than 25 users you have the option of being invoiced.
For more information please contact us here. Back to top
Q. How are we charged for CRM-gx?
A. HydraNet charges monthly for the number of licenses assigned to your
account. You are billed based on the number of licenses, not on the number
of active users. You may opt to pay quarterly, or annually. If
you have fewer than 25 users, we require payment by credit card. If you
have more than 25 users you can request invoices and pay by check, wire
transfer, or bank deposit. Our payment terms are Net 30 from the date
on your invoice, and your payment is due on or before the first day of
service. Back to top
Q. What happens if I reduce the number of licenses in the current billing
period? Do I get a refund?
A. The User License Agreement states that we require 30 days notice to
reduce the number of licenses on your account. Back to top
Q. Where should we send checks?
A. HydraNet Finance, Administration & Operations, 1620 Central Ave., Suite 202, Cheyenne, WY 82001