In a recent podcast, Tony Holowitz spoke about the add-on products he uses in his office for working with ACT, particularly focusing on ACT CRM SAS, the online version of ACT. Here, we’ll delve into some essential tools that enhance ACT’s functionalities, along with Tony’s practical insights and recommendations.
Transition to Online Version
Tony began using ACT CRM SAS in December 2020, fully transitioning to the web-based platform, moving away from the desktop product.
Key Points:
- Shift to online version from desktop
- Specific add-ons for web-based and desktop versions
- Change in add-on usage due to transition
Essential Add-On Products
1. Act for Mail & Act for Outlook by Keystroke
Tony, a partner of Keystroke, talks about two of their products:
- Act for Mail: Designed for web-based ACT, connects ACT and Microsoft Outlook.
- Act for Outlook: Designed for desktop version.
Price:
- Approximately $36 one-time (Act for Outlook)
- Similar annual subscription for Act for Mail
Features:
- Connects incoming and outgoing emails.
- Easy addition of contacts.
2. Template Phrases
A tool that allows saved templates in Microsoft Outlook, useful for quick responses, sales, and marketing.
Price: Approximately $90, occasionally less with a coupon.
Favorite Feature:
- Saves both email body and subject line.
3. Banana Tag
This tool tracks one-off emails, showing when an email has been opened and if links have been clicked.
Price: Approximately $120 per year.
Benefits:
- Great insight for sales, marketing, or general business.
- Tracks emails for better decision-making.
4. Two Monitors
Not an add-on but a vital suggestion, Tony recommends using two monitors for increased work efficiency.
5. Calendly
A tool to put your calendar online for easier scheduling.
Features:
- Different types of events like calls and meetings.
- Easy scheduling with links.
- Reminders for attendees and the host.
Table of Add-Ons Summary:
| Add-On | Price | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Act for Mail/Outlook | Approx. $36 | Connecting ACT with Outlook |
| Template Phrases | Approx. $90 | Quick email responses |
| Banana Tag | Approx. $120/year | Tracking emails |
| Two Monitors | N/A | Expanding workspace |
| Calendly | N/A | Simplifying scheduling |
Conclusion
Tony’s experience and insights into the tools available for enhancing ACT CRM SAS provide valuable guidance for anyone looking to optimize their workflow. From connecting emails to tracking them, creating quick response templates, and even hardware suggestions like dual monitors, Tony’s recommendations cover a wide array of office needs.
Feel free to reach out to Tony Holowitz if you have any questions about these add-on products. He ended his podcast with a cheerful note, hoping that the information shared would be helpful to his listeners. If you find yourself working with ACT, these add-ons might be just what you need to take your productivity to the next level.