In contrast, maximizing throughput usually gives us a far superior return on our marketing and sales resources. But those folks are so far behind the learning curve that there's no point trying to catch them up. CRM software comes in all shapes, sizes and functions. In fact, the functions span a broad continuum from marketing automation on one side to field service on the other. Every system on the market has a sweet spot somewhere on this continuum.
Proficiency then declines with distance from the sweet spot.
Once you've established a list of potential systems that matches up with your needs, the best way to get to a selection is to break down your technology needs process step by process step. Then roll up your needs list and ask software suppliers to show you how they'll meet your needs. If they can. Oh, and one last set of considerations. Don't forget global issues such as whether your field people need to work disconnected from your network or the Web.