Small businesses have many options for creating a customer database. You can custom build your own in a basic spreadsheet such as Excel – a good choice if you are already comfortable with this software. Or you can build a database using that feature in Microsoft Word. There are also more sophisticated, dedicated database software programs that can be helpful, as well as online solutions.
However you build it, an effective database can:
- Keep track of customer data including contact information and buying habits.
- Streamline marketing campaigns with the touch of a button to print labels for direct mail.
- Track sales habits of each customer.
- Create daily, monthly, quarterly and yearly reports.
Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done
Collect information
Think not only in the now, but also in the future, by gathering data on existing customers and future prospects.I recommend: Learn how to build a prospect database with solutions such as survey cards and business card fishbowls. Having customers fill out online information that can be emailed directly to you is another effective way to collect information.
Find the right software
You don't have to be an IT expert to set up a database if you choose user-friendly database software.I recommend: One of the most user-friendly database platforms is FileMaker Pro, which lets you download a demo of how a small bike shop owner uses the program. If you aren't quite sure which software package is right for you, check out product reviews of database software at PC Mag.
Start managing
Name, address, phone, and email are all important, but you'll need much more information on customers to take full advantage of your database. Creating your database is only the first step. You'll also need to set up a plan for its ongoing management. Who will update it? Who will purge outdated contacts? Who will have access to it? How will it be secured?I recommend: Learn the ins and outs of database creation and lingo such as records, tables and fields with a comprehensive, three-step tutorial by the Geek Girls. Check out advice on managing your database from Coyote Communications. For tips on how to find outdated entries, check out advice at nonprofit-info.org.
Outsource it
If you're just starting your business, chances are you have a lot on your plate. Save time and get up to speed with a database quickly by outsourcing the creation of it and then opting to manage it.I recommend: MicroComputerWorks will design a database in a variety of software formats including FileMaker Pro, Microsoft Access, Oracle, My SQL and DB2. The Alchemy Group specializes in creating databases in FileMaker Pro.
Sign on to a complete online solution
While it may be overkill for many small businesses, a complete front and back-office online solution for small business such as NetSuite can solve many problems.I recommend: See a demonstration of this all-in-one business management system in action at NetSuite.com.
Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide
- Start early. You can begin collecting data even before you purchase database software.
- Assign ownership of creating reports and programming new fields to one person within the company and allow others to add records. This will streamline the process and ensure the database layout is not compromised.
- To keep your database fresh, provide training for everyone in the company on how to update records, add new clients, and create a policy of when records should be deleted.
- Backup your database regularly — weekly if possible. To decide the frequency, consider if you lost a few weeks of information, how many customers or prospects would be at risk?
- Make sure that your database contains layouts for address labels to enable you to quickly send out mailings to current customers.
Ecommerce DB Development
Free Database Development Quotes from Multiple Companies. Start Now!
Database.BuyerZone.com
Free Database Development Quotes from Multiple Companies. Start Now!
Database.BuyerZone.com
Data Management Software
Compare Database Management Software using Capterra's free, comprehensive directory.
Capterra.com
Compare Database Management Software using Capterra's free, comprehensive directory.
Capterra.com
Timberline Real Estate and Construction Database Software
Integrated Financial software for real estate managers and developers. Timberline Makes Management Simple. See Demo.
Get Info | See Demo | Free Webcast | E-News
www.sagecre.com
Integrated Financial software for real estate managers and developers. Timberline Makes Management Simple. See Demo.
Get Info | See Demo | Free Webcast | E-News
www.sagecre.com
Database Design and Construction Services
Better decision making with Better Database Design. Free initial database design and evaluation from our experienced database design experts.
Contact Us | About SQL Server | Data Integration | MS Access DB
usatinc.com
Better decision making with Better Database Design. Free initial database design and evaluation from our experienced database design experts.
Contact Us | About SQL Server | Data Integration | MS Access DB
usatinc.com
Free B2B search marketing whitepaper, B2B Search Marketing Strategy Guide: Advice From the Pros.
