How to Use Microsoft Access for a Sales Pipeline
By Luke Arthur
Microsoft Access is a piece of database software that can be used for many different purposes in the business arena. One such application is the creation of a sales pipeline for your business. Microsoft Access can be customized to create a customer relationship management database that could potentially increase sales and develop better long-term relationships with customers. While Microsoft Access can be used for many purposes, it can be customized to help in this regard.
Step 1
Obtain a customer relationship management template for Microsoft Access. This can be done by using one of the templates that comes in the template gallery with Microsoft Access. Another option is to buy a custom-made template from a developer. If you choose the free route, click on "File" then "New" and then use the search box to search for databases. You can then choose the "Sales Contact Management" form for one example of a CRM template for Microsoft Access.
Step 2
Customize the tables and forms in the template. As part of the database, you will need to name the different categories of information that you want to collect. This includes filling in information such as heading names.
Step 3
Enter customer information into the template. For example, when you receive information about a customer, enter his name, address, phone number, email and any other contact information. In the database, include notes about the customer such as what he is interested in and possibly his comments on the product. Include notes about when to contact the customer again in the future.
Step 4
Run reports on Microsoft Access regularly to stay up with the customer relationship information in your business. If you have a large number of customers, this can help you see patterns in the sales process. If you have smaller numbers of customers, it can help you get information about where sales staff needs to follow up with customers.
References
Tips
- Remind employees about the importance of using the database for all interactions with customers. When information is included in the database, it is much easier to get a clear picture of what is going on with your business.
Writer Bio
Luke Arthur has been writing professionally since 2004 on a number of different subjects. In addition to writing informative articles, he published a book, "Modern Day Parables," in 2008. Arthur holds a Bachelor of Science in business from Missouri State University.