Check Point New System Proposal

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Upon reviewing Riordan Manufacturing Inc.’s current and historical sales and marketing information, it is evident that the company requires a comprehensive customer relationship management (CRM) system. The primary objective of this new system is to enable Riordan to effectively manage all interactions with current and prospective customers by organizing, automating, and synchronizing sales transactions, marketing efforts, customer service, and technical support. Currently, Riordan’s data is dispersed across multiple databases, stored in physical documentation, microfiche, and some digital files, making data management and retrieval inefficient (Riordan Manufacturing, Inc., 2012).

Additionally, the existing sales tracking method is hybrid, involving manual pen-and-paper records alongside some software use, which hampers the company’s ability to analyze customer purchasing trends and anticipate future needs accurately. To address these operational inefficiencies, a cloud-based decision management (DM) system integrated with a CRM is proposed. This integrated platform will compile all sales and marketing data, as well as maintain comprehensive records of current and potential client interactions and needs. Leveraging cloud technology, this system will facilitate access for employees across all Riordan locations, promoting real-time data sharing and collaboration among sales and marketing teams.

Implementing this system will significantly reduce the time employees spend searching for client files and coordinating internally, thereby increasing productivity. It will also streamline report generation, enabling management to accurately gauge the company's performance and make data-driven decisions swiftly. Given the volume of existing documents that are stored physically, an initial phase involving scanning and digitizing these documents will be necessary, which may extend the rollout timeline. The setup process will include installing software at each location, with a centralized server room, likely located at Riordan’s headquarters, to ensure data security and system integrity.

Handling an expanding data repository presents ongoing challenges related to data storage and archival processes. Ensuring the accuracy and quality of data stored is crucial, as erroneous data could lead to flawed business decisions. To mitigate this risk, the system will incorporate safeguards such as data validation protocols, requiring end-users to verify entered information. Furthermore, access controls will restrict editing privileges to authorized personnel, while others may only view data, managed through user-specific login credentials issued during the system’s deployment. This layered security approach will help maintain data integrity and confidentiality.

The upfront costs associated with the implementation are considerable, primarily due to the extensive data migration and setup requirements. Nonetheless, the long-term benefits are expected to justify the investment. The integrated CRM and decision management system will not only enhance internal operational efficiency but also improve customer experience. Customers will be able to create accounts and place orders online seamlessly, receive estimated delivery times, and receive instant purchase order confirmations owing to the platform’s integrated capabilities. This real-time responsiveness promises to strengthen customer satisfaction and loyalty, aligning with modern expectations of digital service delivery.

Implementing a CRM system of this scope will require careful planning, ongoing maintenance, and periodic updates to adapt to evolving business needs. Training staff on how to use the new platform and ensuring continued data security will be vital components of a successful rollout. Moreover, ongoing evaluation and refinement will be necessary to ensure the system remains aligned with the company's strategic goals and operational realities. Overall, the deployment of a cloud-based CRM and decision management system represents a strategic investment in Riordan Manufacturing's future competitiveness and customer relationships.

References

• Riordan Manufacturing, Inc. (2012). Marketing Information System. Retrieved December 16, 2012, from Riordan Manufacturing website.
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