Nieuw in SpinOffice: SmartMail – verbeter je e-mails met AI. Lees meer →

The Costs and Benefits of a CRM System for SMEs

Determining the cost of a CRM-systeem is similar to determining the cost of a house or car - it depends on several factors. In the same way, no clear answer can be given to the question about the costs of a CRM package.But still, let's try to untangle this issue.

In this blog post, we will delve deeper into the costs and benefits of implementing a CRM system for SMEs. Through a global analysis of both the financial implications and operational benefits, we will discover how a well-chosen CRM can stimulate the growth and efficiency of SME companies.

The following topics are covered:

  1. Introduction
  2. What are the benefits of a CRM?
  3. How are the costs of a CRM usually structured?
  4. What are considerations when choosing a CRM?
  5. What does CRM do?
  6. How much does SpinOffice CRM cost?
  7. Conclusion


1. Introduction

In an era where customer relationships are crucial to the success of any business, SMEs are famed for the challenge of staying competitive in an ever-changing business landscape. Managing and maintaining strong customer relationships is not only essential for retaining existing customers but also for attracting new ones. This is where Customer Relationship Management (CRM) comes in as a powerful tool for SMEs.

But first a short answer to the question, wat is CRM? Het begrijpen van de definitie van een CRM-systeem is essentieel om de waarde en functionaliteit ervan te waarderen. CRM staat voor Customer Relationship Managementwhich translates into managing customer relationships. A CRM system is a technological solution that helps companies organize, automate and synchronize various aspects of customer interactions, with the aim of improving customer satisfaction, increasing loyalty and increasing revenue.

2. What are the benefits of a CRM system?

Implementing a CRM system offers numerous benefits for SMEs, allowing them to improve their relationship management increase productivity and make better business decisions. Some of the main benefits are highlighted below:

Improved customer relationships

  • Central customer database:A CRM system provides a central location for storing customer data, giving all employees access to up-to-date information about customers and prospects.
  • Personalization of interactions: with detailed customer profiles, SMEs can create personalized interactions, such as targeted marketing campaigns, customized offers, and proactive customer service.

Increased productivity

  • Automation of tasks: CRM systems can automate repetitive tasks, such as sending follow-up emails, scheduling appointments and generating reports, giving employees more time to focus on more valuable tasks.
  • Efficiency in communication:by centralizing all communication with customers within the CRM system, employees can quickly and easily share and collaborate with relevant information, which benefits the efficiency of the team.

Better decision-making


  • Data analysis and reporting:CRM systems provide powerful analysis tools that help SMEs identify trends, track performance, and gain insight into customer behavior, enabling them to make data-driven decisions.
  • Understanding customer behavior and trends:By tracking customer interactions and transaction history, SMEs can better understand what drives their customers and what trends are occurring in their market, allowing them to proactively respond and adapt to changing needs.

Implementing a CRM system, therefore, offers SMEs the opportunity not only to strengthen their customer relationships but also to improve their operational efficiency and make data-driven decisions that contribute to the success and growth of their business.

3. How are the costs of a CRM usually structured?

When considering the implementation of a CRM system, SMEs should be aware of the various costs involved. These costs can vary, depending on factors such as the chosen CRM solution, the size of the business and the desired functionalities. The main costs of a CRM system for SMEs are discussed below.

License fee


Vaak bieden CRM-aanbieders periodieke license fee voor het gebruik van de CRM-software. Deze kosten kunnen op maandelijkse of jaarlijkse basis worden berekend. Daarmee wordt de ondernemers dus geen eigenaar van de CRM-software maar huurt u de software en krijgt u gebruikersrechten.

De licentiekosten van een CRM-systeem voor een MKB-organisaties variëren tussen de € 25 en de € 300 per gebruiker per maand. Dit zijn alleen de abonnementskosten, exclusief andere kosten zoals implementatie, advies, aanvullende training en andere componenten. Bij SpinOffice CRM valt de helpdesk support ook binnen het abonnement.

De meeste leveranciers geven toegang tot meer functionaliteiten bij hogere abonnementsprijzen per gebruiker. Dit is bij SpinOffice CRM ook het geval, bekijk de editie-vergelijking voor de verschillen.

Implementation costs

Naast de licentiekosten kunnen er mogelijk eenmalige licentiekosten betalen voor de aanschaf van de CRM-software. Deze kosten kunnen variëren afhankelijk van de leverancier en het gekozen pakket.

Bij SpinOffice CRM wordt geen aanschaf van de software gerekend, een implementatietraining in de eerste maand is mogelijk en gewenst maar niet verplicht.

Daarnaast kunnen er, afhankelijk van de specifieke behoeften van het bedrijf, aanpassingen en configuraties nodig zijn om het CRM-systeem aan te passen aan de bedrijfsprocessen en vereisten. Deze aanpassingen kunnen extra kosten met zich meebrengen.

Training

Training employees to use the CRM effectively is essential for a successful implementation. Often there are manuals and online videos that offer a solution. For optimal use of a CRM system, training users is wise. This ensures that users get as much result as possible by working with the software as quickly as possible. The design and cost of the training are highly dependent on the number of users. As an example, for an SME with 10 users, you have to take into account several days of support in most cases while for 2 users a half day is sufficient.

These training costs may consist of internal training, workshops or external training sessions organized by the CRM provider.

With SpinOffice CRM, it works as follows; with a simple implementation training for €960, you are still up-and-running on the same day. For single-users an adjusted rate applies.

In addition, there are several CRM-training available to follow.

Support & advies


In the search for a suitable CRM, take a good look at the support options. CRM is dynamic; user wishes and possibilities are constantly changing. Good support in optimally using and adjusting the software is essential. And a well-accessible helpdesk is not self-evident. Also investigate whether support should be paid.


In addition to extensive documentation, SpinOffice provides a helpdesk where personal contact is central. During office hours we are always available and we answer your questions. In addition, the SpinOffice Support Team offers half an hour of implementation support to optimally set up the CRM at the start.


Most CRM providers offer a choice of different support subscriptions for a fixed amount per month or through a strip card system, so that the SME organization can choose support that suits.

Additionele kosten

If the CRM system needs to be integrated with existing business systems such as accounting software, e-commerce platforms or marketing tools, additional costs may arise for the development and implementation of integrations.

The transfer of existing customer data to the new CRM system may also involve additional costs, as well as investments in data security measures to ensure the confidentiality and integrity of customer data.

It is important for SMEs to perform a thorough cost-benefit analysis before implementing a CRM system, considering all potential costs and weighing against expected benefits and return on investment. With a good understanding of the costs, SMEs can make informed decisions and choose a CRM solution that fits their budget and business needs.

4. What are considerations when choosing a CRM?

When choosing a CRM system, SMEs must keep several important considerations in mind to ensure that they select the right solution that suits their needs, budget and future growth plans. Some essential considerations are discussed below.

Functionality and adaptability


  • Essential Features: Identify the core functionalities your business needs, such as contact management, lead management, sales/pipeline management, marketing automation, and customer service support.
  • AddabilityChoose a CRM system that is flexible enough to be tailored to your business's specific needs and processes, with the ability to add or customize modules as your business grows.
Cost-benefit analysis

  • Total cost:: Evaluate not only the initial cost of the CRM system, but also the ongoing costs for licenses, maintenance and support to get a realistic picture of the total cost over the life of the system.
  • Return on Investment (ROI)Explore the potential benefits of the CRM system, such as improved productivity, increased revenue, and improved customer satisfaction, and determine how they outweigh the costs of determining ROI.
Supplier support and service
  • Customer service: assess the availability and quality of the customer service and support provided by the CRM vendor, including training options, technical support, and software updates.
  • Future development: Research the vendor roadmap and see what new features and improvements are planned for future versions of the CRM system to ensure that the system can grow with your business's needs.

By carefully evaluating these considerations, SMB companies can make an informed decision when choosing a CRM system that allows them to improve their customer relationships, increase productivity and take their business to new heights.

5. What does CRM do?

Of course the costs are important, but often even more important is actually; what does CRM software yield? What is the ROI of a CRM system for your business? A CRM system that suits your business and a supplier who thinks along is worth a lot. The main returns of CRM software are:

  • Time savings:all documents, emails and appointments with prospects and customers can be found much faster.
  • Better customer focus: because people have much more insight into the behavior and needs of customers, employees can respond faster and better with their product development and targeted quotes.
  • Higher success chancebecause you have more control over sales opportunities, you better respond to sales processes and increase the chance of the order.
  • Better internal cooperation: because all information can be found centrally and everyone works from one truth, you switch together faster.

We want to show you exactly what SpinOffice CRM delivers. Schedule a free demo and experience for yourself what SpinOffice CRM can do for your organization.

6. How much does SpinOffice CRM cost?

Now that it is clear what costs you can expect when purchasing a CRM, we are happy to use the opportunity to share the SpinOffice rates with you. We include an estimate of one-time investment in the form of implementation.

Easy start

Pro-licenses + implementation training:

  • License fee: € 32.50 per user per month (billed annually)
  • One-time investment implementation training: € 960

A simple start is a good option for many SMEs.

Ideal start

Enterprise licenses + implementation:

  • License fee: €72.50 per user per month (billed annually)
  • One-time investment implementation training: € 960
  • One-time investment extra services: € 2,000 - € 5,000

Of course, the services are dependent on a possible conversion of data from other systems and integrations with other software.

For non-profit organizations, there is an opportunity to work with SpinOffice at a reduced rate. After all, resources are often limited, but the need to automate properly is great. SpinOffice would like to help with that. For more information on the rates of our CRM editions, view the prices & editions..

Are you looking for a total picture of the investment and the returns of SpinOffice CRM for your organization? Then book a meeting with one of our experts..

Good luck with your search for a CRM solution that is right for you!

7. Conclusion

In this blog post, we have made an in-depth analysis of the costs and benefits of implementing a CRM system for SMBs. We started by discussing the definition of a CRM system and its importance for SMB companies, focusing on improving customer relationships, increasing productivity, and making better business decisions.

Next, we discussed the cost of a CRM system for SMBs, including implementation costs, maintenance costs, and potential hidden costs. We have emphasized how important it is for SMEs to conduct a thorough cost-benefit analysis to make an informed decision when choosing a CRM solution that fits their budget and needs.

After that, we discussed important considerations that SMEs should keep in mind when choosing a CRM system, such as functionality and adaptability, cost-benefit analysis and supplier support.

Samengevat kunnen we concluderen dat een CRM-systeem een waardevolle investering kan zijn voor MKB-bedrijven, omdat het hen in staat stelt om hun klantgerichtheid te verbeteren, de efficiëntie te verhogen en concurrentievoordeel te behalen. Door de kosten en voordelen zorgvuldig af te wegen en te leren van succesverhalen van andere bedrijven, kunnen MKB-bedrijven een CRM-oplossing kiezen die hen helpt om succesvol te groeien en te gedijen in een competitieve zakelijke omgeving.

Subscribe to our newsletter

Stay up to date with our most important news, software updates and promotions.

Experience SpinOffice CRM without obligation

We’re happy to make time for you to explore how SpinOffice CRM can improve your business processes. Whether you want to work more efficiently, communicate more effectively with your clients, or simply gain more clarity — we’re here to help.

SpinOffice CRM is beschikbaar voor slechts € 36,65 per gebruiker per maand.