In order to get the most out of a CPQ, you need to make sure you select the right one for your business. Here’s what to look for as you evaluate your options:
Like any business website, it’s imperative to have a CPQ portal that’s easy to use and generates quotes quickly. For public-facing portals, your site should be attractive, professional, and designed according to your brand standards. After all, this might form the first impression of your company.
Today, almost half of all internet usage is done on a mobile device. In order to accommodate this, your website should be dynamic and mobile-friendly. Even better, sales can work directly with customers on a tablet to guide them through the configuration process.
Next, you want the ability to let your customers place orders directly on your website. While working with the sales team should continue to be an option for customers who want hands-on support, they should be able to place their exact order directly on your website without having to go through a middleman. This is the fastest way to generate a quote, and often, the fastest way to secure business.
Your CPQ solution should be able to seamlessly connect to enterprise resource planning (ERP) software, as well as your customer relationship management (CRM) platforms. Since these systems handle a variety of functions, like automating marketing emails and managing inventory, CPQ integration will enable more end-to-end automation, even across multiple departments and teams.
Does the CPQ solution you’re considering have the ability to integrate with 3D modeling and CAD? This allows customers to view a fully rendered 3D model of their product before making a purchase. Not only is this a selling point, but it also helps customers confirm that the product meets their expectations.
