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When it comes to doing more with your contacts than simply listing them, the time has come when you need CRM (Customer Relations Management) software. Even if your needs are relatively simple, for example keeping track of friends, family, social events or community service programs, CRM applications are practically a necessity. While address books are fine, even casual users of PCs will find a need somewhere along the line for a program that can keep track of individuals, meetings, appointments and other relevant data.
While most software in this category have been geared towards the small to the mid-sized business concerns, there is so much here that even average end—users could make practical use. If you have ever been frustrated by the limitations of an address book, or need to do more than list contacts, again, CRM software could be a viable option.
Goldmine has been a major figure in the industry in this arena for some time. The looks of the interface can attest to that. However, if you can get past the days of DOS look of certain aspects of the graphical user interface, there is a great deal to like about Goldmine 6.5 as the ultimate contact management solution.
Where Goldmine 6.5 shines is in its workmanlike, but very practical, interface. Even those with very specific needs may not need to do much to the program as it comes out of the box. Offering instant access to names, addresses, e-mails, Web pages and assorted data, the main interface for each contact showcases a tree like structure for connecting related contacts to the one open, as well as the option to create a new contact and then link it directly to the contact that is available. While this may seem obvious, it is a time saver that offers a clever way to see the relationships between contacts without taking up extra screen space.
It is in anticipating end users needs where Goldmine stands out from the crowd. The inclusion of simple elements to improve workflow, along with a bevy of features, adds to the positive elements. The expected functions are here as well and they included integration between two major programs. Exchanging and import/export functions between Goldmine and Outlook 2003 and Goldmine and ACT! Recognizing the need to be interoperable with established players, Goldmine works professionally and admirably with both Outlook 2003 and ACT! 6.0.
If you have some familiarity with ACT!, Goldmine is not too much of a stretch. Much like ACT!, the basic layout of the program is still in the Outlook template. The far left screen features icons that lead to functions with the larger window a canvas area that holds assorted windows open with the main contact window taking priority. Also, like ACT!, all functions center around the contact as the primary focus.
Where things differ is in how Goldmine performs its assorted functions. As much as it offers, Goldmine comes with a slightly steep learning curve. Matters are helped by instructional windows that periodically pop up informing you the best way to perform a specific operation. While this can be irritating at first, as you work with the program these help tools do encourage good working practice with the program. The only downside is that these helpers can get in the way of getting the job done.
Downloadable as a rather large file, Frontrange also has available a training video gratis. While the download time is slim with broadband, do not attempt it with a dial-up connection, the instruction video is helpful, perhaps essential for new users. Transferring what you know from other programs can help in working with Goldmine, but ultimately, there is a lot to learn here and it does require doing it the Goldmine way.
Once you overcome the unique way Goldmine has of working, you start to see the logic of the program. The particular winning aspects are the many details and options for scheduling meetings, prospective sales, appointments and other relevant details. The ability to attach files of nearly any type and open them with the native application is a plus. Also, opening and closing the program is swift.
Aside from having an interface that looks one part 1998 and other parts 2004, there are some inconsistencies and some rather quirky ways Goldmine has in operating specific tasks. If you over look them and just focus on what the application can do and its rich feature set, there is much here to admire.
Interestingly enough, a program this complex comes with a fairly decent online video and the enclosed help windows that periodically pop up offering helpful hints is a nice touch. On the one hand quirky, on the other it is a logical well considered program, much like Winfax Pro, Goldmine is a solid product, but not one without a few areas in need of improvement. Aside from my criticisms, Goldmine is one of the better programs in this arena, particularly for small to mid sized businesses that need a program that will last the long haul.
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