CRM stands for Customer Relationship Management, while ERP stands for Enterprise Resource Planning. Both are business applications that store and analyze data in a relational database, but they serve different purposes.
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CRM: A CRM system helps companies manage the sales cycle and customer experience. It supports and connects front-office business functions, such as marketing, sales, advertising, and customer service. CRM systems handle activities such as recording customer interactions, sales tracking, pipeline management, prospecting, and creating/evaluating marketing campaigns.
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ERP: An ERP system serves as a central database to integrate and facilitate automations and efficient resource allocation between company functions. It primarily supports and connects back-office functions, such as finance, supply chain operations, and HR. ERP systems handle tasks like order placement, tracking, billing, shipping, accounting, and supply chain details.
While both CRM and ERP systems help businesses increase productivity, improve automation, and boost revenue generation, the main difference between the two is that ERP software is primarily used for financial data and operations, and CRM software is used on the sales and customer service sides of the business.
In summary, CRM and ERP are two different types of business software that serve different purposes. CRM systems handle customer-facing functions, while ERP systems handle back-office functions. Both systems store valuable data that can enable businesses to create effective marketing campaigns and make informed decisions.