Introduction

In the world of Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software, Act has been a trusted name for businesses seeking efficient management of customer interactions. However, with multiple versions available, such as Act Pro and Act Premium Cloud, choosing the right CRM solution can be a challenging decision. In this blog post, we will compare Act Pro and Act Premium Cloud, with insights from Tony Holowitz, an Act certified consultant, to help you make an informed choice.

Act Pro – The Traditional One-Time Purchase

Act Pro is a well-established option preferred by long-time Act users. Key features of Act Pro include:

• Pricing: Approximately $299 for a one-time purchase, providing permanent ownership of the software.
• Support and Updates: Limited technical support and updates may incur additional costs.
• Data Accessibility: Data is accessible only through the installed software.
• IT Support: Requires businesses to handle IT support and maintenance.
• Additional User Cost: Additional user licenses may result in extra expenses.
• Marketing Automation: Not included in the package.

Act Premium Cloud – A Modern Cloud-Based Subscription

Act Premium Cloud is the cloud-based, subscription-based version that offers several advantages over Act Pro. Here are its key features:

• Pricing: Approximately $420 per year as a yearly subscription fee.
• Support and Updates: Subscribers receive free technical support and automatic updates.
• Data Accessibility: Data can be accessed from anywhere with internet access through web browsers (e.g., Internet Explorer, Google Chrome, Firefox).
• IT Support: Act serves as your IT department, eliminating additional IT support costs.
• Additional User Cost: Act Premium Cloud allows you to add Act to other computers in browse-only mode at no extra cost.
• Marketing Automation: Access to Act marketing automation for advanced email marketing functionalities.

Advantages of Act Premium Cloud over Act Pro

1. Continuous Updates and Support: Act Premium Cloud subscribers receive free technical support and automatic updates, ensuring access to the latest features and improvements.

2. Data Accessibility and Backup: With Act Premium Cloud, your data is securely stored in the cloud, accessible from anywhere with an internet connection, and regularly backed up.

3. No IT Support Cost: Act Premium Cloud acts as your IT department, saving you the expense and hassle of managing IT support.

4. Flexible User Access: Act Premium Cloud allows non-licensed users to access data in browse-only mode, providing valuable information without additional licensing costs.

5. Marketing Automation: The marketing automation tool in Act Premium Cloud empowers businesses to run sophisticated email marketing campaigns and enhance sales and customer service efforts.

Making the Right Choice for Your Business

When deciding between Act Pro and Act Premium Cloud, consider the following factors:

1. Budget: Act Pro’s one-time purchase cost might suit businesses with a limited budget, while Act Premium Cloud’s subscription model offers continuous updates and support for a yearly fee.

2. Data Accessibility: If your business requires easy access to data from various locations and devices, Act Premium Cloud’s cloud-based solution provides unmatched convenience.

3. IT Support: Compare the cost and hassle of managing your IT support with Act Pro versus the benefits of Act Premium Cloud acting as your IT department.

4. Marketing Needs: If your business heavily relies on email marketing and advanced automation features, Act Premium Cloud’s marketing automation tool can be a game-changer.

Conclusion

Choosing the right CRM solution for your business is crucial for efficient customer relationship management and growth. Tony Holowitz, an Act certified consultant, recommends embracing the cloud-based approach and considering CRM software as an investment rather than an expense. With Act Premium Cloud, businesses gain access to the latest features, top-notch technical support, and the flexibility to scale their CRM usage as their business expands.

For personalized guidance on selecting the right CRM solution and making the most out of your CRM investment, reach out to Tony Holowitz. His expertise and training can empower your team to leverage CRM software for increased sales, marketing, and customer service success.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is based on the knowledge available up to September 2021. Prices, features, and options might have changed since then. Please verify the details with the official sources before making any purchase decisions.