Building a Human-Centric CRM
Next up in our deep-dive into our Notion build - the Customer Relationship Management base (CRM). Our approach to CRM isn't just about managing contacts—our goal was to make this database the epicenter of all other sources. We wanted to tie every detail we possibly could back to clients and their file.
This began with a simple question: How do we create a system that's both scalable and personal? The answer emerged through months of real-world testing and refinement.
About 3 things we were certain we wanted: an entire lead pipeline, one central location for all pertinent client information, and interactive opportunities and resources for prospects/clients within this system.
We figured it out.
Key features we have developed so far?
Our CRM maintains detailed, real-time records for each client that automatically update with every interaction, email, and meeting note - making it easy to track history and provide personalized service.
The system works harmoniously with essential tools like Zapier, Slack, and more, creating a unified workflow, and almost limitless opportunities for surveys, campaigns, and client resource utilization.
We maintain an entire sales pipeline - all the way from prospects to closed and won clients. And it's all in the very same database - minimal effort required. Agreements, lead sources, stages, time-tracking logs - and so much else. Thank you Notion, for having almost limitless property options. We track almost all of our metrics strictly from the CRM itself. We got our time back - no more tracking down 30 different pages for client information.
So, what do results look like for us, now that we have built interactive, intuitive system?
We spend more time talking to people, and getting the job done. It took time and serious dedication to build out a CRM that does the work for us, after moving through so many different platforms, pining for the best option. Now, that time has been given back to us, threefold. Our CRM is alive —and our team gets to watch their hard work turn into success metrics, instead of spending hours manually updating stages themselves.
The real magic happens in the details. Every client interaction, whether it's a quick chat or a major milestone, gets captured and contextualized automatically. Our team doesn't have to remember to log updates - the system does it for them. This means we're always working with fresh, accurate data, not week-old memories.
By maintaining this careful balance between automation and personal connection, we've created a CRM system that intuitively and smoothly serves both our team and our clients.
Looking ahead, we're continuing to refine and evolve. The beauty of building in Notion is the flexibility to adapt as we grow. When a team member suggests a new way to track client preferences or streamline our workflow, we can implement it immediately. No waiting for the next software update or fighting with rigid systems. Just continuous, organic improvement driven by real needs and real people.
Your tech should make your life easier, not harder. Every moment given back to you by technology is an invaluable gift, not only for you, but for your clients.
