All other software systems cost money. Unlike MRP, inventory, billing or accounting software which tracks only quanifiable details about customers, SA can track both quantifiable and subjective details. What's been said to customers, by whom, what promises were made, by whom, when are you suppose to get back to the customer, who are the problem and power people in the account, etc. This subjective data is missing in traditional manufacturing, accounting, billing, inventory systems. Field sales can update telemarketing, customer service and sales support about situations that need to be monitored, acted on or rescheduled and visa versa.
Reps frequently change jobs.
Customer files used by Reps belong to the company. This central repository should be routinely updated and backed-up. If used by more than one person your SA program must have security controls. Users should log-on with their name and key in a password to enter the system. You can grant or deny access to portions of the data or functions.