Using The CRM Planning Guide is as simple as 1-2-3. 1. Assemble a cross-functional planning team. The core team, which attends all meetings, should include at least one decision-maker each from marketing, sales and customer service-plus a "second voice" from each. A wider resource team, which participates on an as-needed basis, should include market and product managers, several field sales reps and service reps-plus marketing's management contact in ITand others directly affecting marketing activities. Of utmost importance is having a team sponsor with the clout to clear your path and the will to use it. 2. Gather necessary information. Review the planning document to identify what information you have in hand and what you'll need to gather. Assign responsibility and resources for obtaining the necessary information. 3. Let the CRM Planning Guide lead you through the planning process. Make sure you follow The CRM Planning Guide in the sequence presented. Much of the power of this planning process comes from evaluating input in the order most likely to create a "compounding" effect where previous considerations help you answer questions to come. Occasionally, you'll want to go back and amend previous observations, which is normal. But avoid skipping around because you have certain information now but won't have some other information until later.
That's all there is to it.
