Cloud Computing
CRM Software for Security Dealers: A Must Have
A CRM is generally understood to be software that helps you manage your customers and prospects. But when I hear “I really need a good CRM!” the real question is: what are you trying to manage? Lead Management CRM vs. Customer Management CRM Often what they really want is not a customer management system, but…
Read MoreAlarmBiller Customers: Compare your Service, Software, and Support
Our security dealer customers are in a very competitive market. They compete with large national players like ADT, usually several local independent dealers, “DIY” companies like SimpliSafe, and others. In order to compete successfully, our dealers need to be clear about their competitive advantages. “We are your best choice because…” The advantages could be unique…
Read MoreAlarm and Security Service Software: Why SSaaS beats SaaS
One of the big buzzwords right now is “SaaS”: Software as a Service. Today I’m coining a new term (drum roll please…): “SSaaS.” Let me elaborate on both of these and explain why SSaaS is superior. Cloud-Based or Local? The old business model for software, of course, was to buy it, install it on the local network, then maintain and upgrade it over time. MANY companies in…
Read MoreHome Work? Easy, With Cloud-Based Alarm Software
When Cornerstone established our cloud-based alarm software platform in early 2001, we definitely felt like pioneers. The dominant business model then was locally-installed and maintained software. Over the last 20 years, there has been a sea change. Small businesses now embrace the many advantages of accessing services, tools, and even their precious customer data using…
Read More7 Tips for Choosing a Cloud Provider
Cloud-based software and services have made enterprise level services accessible to security alarm dealers of all sizes. In the past, companies had the choice of doing without, or setting up their own in-house cloud platform. Building an in-house cloud system was, and continues to be, too expensive for most small and mid-sized dealers. The costs…
Read MoreWhy Our Software Isn’t Prettier
Because I’m so proud of our software, I’m definitely too sensitive to criticism about it. Recently, during our first session to train her, a new user had the nerve to say the software looked dated. She – a very young person – said it didn’t have the cool graphics, mouseovers, and ample white space that…
Read MoreWhat You Don’t Know about the Internet of Things [Infographic]
This infographic from Luckyposting shows how the Internet of Thing (IoT) is impacting various industries and companies. IoT is more than a home security trend but factors into every facet of life.
Read MoreThe Cloud Has a Silver Lining for Security Dealers
Security dealers embrace internet-driven technologies when installing security systems but may not have adopted it for their company’s workflow management and back office software. Many rely on a patchwork of software and tools that use valuable time and resources to toggle back and forth between non-integrated pieces to get the work done. This is inefficient…
Read More4 signs it’s time for your small business to grow
You may find yourself with new opportunities in the coming year.
Read MoreNews Roundup: 4 innovative small-business social media features
Even if you don’t recognize new media’s place in small business, many social sites do.
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