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The Top 5 Cloud Accounting Systems For South African Businesses

Mon, 17 Jan 2022 15:53:51 +0200

It's not easy to choose an accounting software application. There are a ton of choices out there and they're all clamoring to get your attention, but not all accounting software applications are created equal. Some excel in invoicing while coming up short on other key accounting features, while others include stellar reporting options but only offer basic accounting capability. So which one is right for you? We take a closer look at 5 of the most popular cloud accounting platforms for South African businesses. Read on and find out more.

1. FreshBooks

FreshBooks is a cloud-based accounting system designed exclusively for the self employed and for those in a service-based business such as a designer, a marketing agency, a plumber, an IT professional, a lawyer, an architect or a web professional. FreshBooks pride themselves in understanding that you went into business to serve your customers and not to learn accounting.

Key Features:

Reporting and statistics
Activity Dashboard
API
Third Party Integrations
Unlimited invoices
Expense tracking
Creation of estimates
Reporting tools

Affordability:

FreshBooks offers a free 30 day trial and 3 reasonably priced payment plans thereafter, starting at $6 per month for the Lite plan for 5 billable clients, then $10 per month for the Plus plan for 10 billable clients and finally $20 for the Premium plan which allows for unlimited clients.

Available Integrations:

Freshbooks currently integrates with more than 40 3rd-party applications with app categories such as CRM, Payroll, Project Management, Tax Help, Utilities, Time Tracking, Lead Tracking, Income Importer, E-Commerce, Job Board, Bookkeeping and more.

User Friendliness: The system is easy to set up and support is offered either telephonically or by asking a question on their website.

2. Sage

Sage is one of the best-known cloud accounting providers globally with decades of providing up-to-date, user-friendly accounting programs. Sage Business Cloud Accounting is a comprehensive software for freelancers and small businesses and is one of the most easy-to-use web-based platforms available on the market. Users can manage key accounting processes like managing items, supplies and customer accounts in one centralised hub.

Key Features:

Accounting access: invite your accountant as a user
Bank statement imports: a time saver for reconciliations
Dashboard: view the information you need to make decisions
Mobile applications: log on using your device from anywhere
Online: run your business from anywhere, anytime
Recurring invoices: automatically invoice customers
Report Designer: design your own formats and layouts
Reporting: various reporting options offered
Sales/purchases: managing your customers, suppliers and items
Support: get unlimited support and webinars
To do list: manage your to do's and reminders

Affordability:

Sage Business Cloud Accounting offers different pricing plans depending on your needs and a 30 day free trial for each of the packages. Pricing plans start at an affordable $10 per month for the Start plan which allows small businesses to quote, invoice and track payments. Then $25 per month for the Business Cloud Accounting plan which allows small to medium businesses perform more accounting functions excluding payroll for a maximum of five users. Finally, the Sage Business Cloud X3 plan incorporates all accounting, tax and payroll elements and is ideal for larger businesses with numerous employees at $41 per month.

Available Integrations:

Sage is a great standalone, as well as integrated product, although interoperability can vary based on which package you have. Here are just a few of the business systems that integrate with Sage Business Cloud Accounting: ServiceM8, Service Trade Commercial, Big Time and Billing, Itemize, Expensify, Expense Point, SalesSeek, PARIM, Commusoft, Synchroteam, Workato, Harmony PSA etc.

User Friendliness: In general, the Sage programs tend to be reasonably user-friendly. Upon set up, you can customise various elements, and set up tasks that you want to be automated. It is not heavy on extra features, as the tiered package structures offer these upgrades and extras. Support is offered telephonically, via email, live support and tickets.

3. QuickBooks

QuickBooks is an accounting software package developed and marketed by Intuit. First introduced in 1983, QuickBooks products are geared mainly toward small and medium-sized businesses and offer on-premises accounting applications as well as cloud-based versions that accept business payments, manage and pay bills, and payroll functions.

Key Features:

Bill management
Inventory
Reporting
A vast network of QuickBooks ProAdvisers which makes it easy to find a local bookkeeper
Multi-language invoicing
Recurring invoices: automatically invoice customers
Various attractive invoice templates
Contact management allows for very detailed customer information to be captured

Affordability:

QuickBooks offers a 30 day free trial for each of their packages. Pricing plans start at $25 per month for the Simple Start plan with 1 user. The Essentials plan is next at $50 per month for 3 users. Then Plus plan is $80 per month for 5 users and lastly, the Advanced plan is $180 per month for 25 users.

Available Integrations:

QuickBooks is highly flexible when it comes to interoperability. The program is compatible with over 600 apps and programs.

User Friendliness:

All packages come with mobile apps, tech support, customisable reports and secure cloud storage. QuickBooks is known for being pretty user-friendly, with a few small improvements that could be made to its layout and ease of finding certain features. Unlimited free support is offered telephonically or by asking a question on their website.

4 Zoho Books

Zoho Books is an online accounting software that manages your finances, automates business workflows and helps you work collectively across departments. It's a comprehensive smart accounting software solution designed for small businesses to better manage their finances and control their cash flow more efficiently. Since its introduction to the world in 2011, Zoho Books has become one of the top players in the accounting market. The huge number of satisfied clients around the globe is a tribute to how Zoho Books grows with its clients and their businesses.

Key Features:

Automated workflows
Bank reconciliation
Custom invoices
Expense tracking
Projects and timesheets
Recurring transactions
Sales approval

Affordability:

Zoho Books offers a 14 day free trial and three pricing plans as well as a free pricing plan for businesses with a turnover of < $50K / per annum. Thereafter, pricing plans start at $20 per month for the Standard Plan, $50 per month for the Professional plan and $70 per month for their Premium Plan.

Available Integrations:

Zoho Books integrates seamlessly with 40+ Zoho apps and a host of 3rd party apps including major online payment gateways such as Paypal, Stripe, Authorize.net, Forte, Worldpay, Braintree and 2 Checkout to name a few.

User Friendliness:

Zoho Books is extremely user-friendly with a clean design yet robust set of features that helps users generate actionable, data-based insights. As far as support is concerned, Zoho Books offers live telephone and chat support on all paid packages, while the free plan only includes email support. In addition, it also has the following resources: Zoho Help Database: A comprehensive help guide that includes basic navigation instructions, keyboard shortcuts, and step-by-step instructions in banking, contacts, invoices, client portal, expenses, and items. Zoho Video Tutorials/Webinar: In the help database, you’ll also find video tutorials and a webinar on using Zoho Books. You can also join the Zoho Books user community to ask or answer questions, register for an upcoming webinar, and review the Welcome Guide.

5 Xero

Xero is a cloud-based accounting software that is transforming the way businesses are managing their finances. It's a comparative newcomer to the market, having launched in 2006. That, however, hasn’t stopped it from racing to the top to join the ranks of leading accounting programs.

Key Features:

Pay bills
Claim expenses
Bank connections
Accept payments
Track projects
Bank reconciliation
Manage contacts
Capture data

Affordability:

Xero offers a 30 day free trial and three levels of cloud-based accounting. Pricing plans start at a fair $22 per month for the Starter Plan, which is quite limited, allowing you to send just 5 quotes and invoices and reconcile 20 bank transactions. The Standard Plan, $35 per month drops those limits and allows for unlimited basic accounting, while the Premium Plan at $47 per month includes the ability to handle multiple currencies.

Available Integrations:

The system is easily integrated with over 1000 3rd party apps.

User Friendliness:

Getting to grips with Xero can take some time, but once you’re familiar with it, it is simple to use. There is also easily accessible help functionality, making navigation and use easier.

Our top pick for South African businesses

After analysing all the above popular Cloud Accounting Software Platforms, it is clear that Zoho Books is the best suited one to South African businesses for many reasons, the top one being the free plan for businesses with revenue <1 Million ZAR per annum, amounting to massive cost savings to businesses.

The next reason we love Zoho Books and the entire Zoho Suite as a whole, is that the price is fixed in Rands, so you won't be caught out by nasty exchange rate fluctuations ever again. Click here to sign up for your free trial.

And talking about saving money, Zoho One gives you one integrated system to transform your business' disparate activities into a more connected and agile organisation. With Zoho One, Zoho has put together all the applications a company needs to acquire and serve its customers (marketing, sales and support apps); run its operations (finance, recruiting, and HR apps); and provide all the tools for its employees to work collaboratively and get their work done (office suite, mail, personal productivity, and collaboration apps). All these apps for only R450 per user per month.

What's more is that DSL Telecom is a Zoho Premium Partner in South Africa which means we have a team of skilled software specialists that can answer all your Zoho-related queries and guide you in the right direction, based on your business's software requirements. Reach out to one of our specialists today:

Speak to a DSL Telecom software specialist

Related blogs that may interest you

Zoho Apps vs Zoho One, which version of Zoho is right for your business

What CRM System Should You Choose in South Africa?

Everything a modern South African business should consider when comparing Cloud PBX Phone Systems

Zoholics South Africa 2021 - Zoho's annual user conference is coming to Cape Town & Johannesburg

Wed, 10 Nov 2021 09:23:33 +0200

Zoholics is Zoho's annual user conference, a journey for Zoho and DSL Telecom to meet with our Zoho Software users to inform, inspire and educate them on the latest product updates. Through presentations, workshops, demonstrations and discussions with our software product experts, you will gain a greater understanding of Zoho’s integrated suite of business applications.

Zoholics South Africa offers everything that small, medium and large business leaders and experts need to know in order to evolve and advance on their digital transformation journeys.

During this conference Zoho will also showcase new insights into their roadmap for the Africa region and how they plan on utilising cutting edge technology to advance in the country.

Upcoming Events

Zoholics Johannesburg

Hilton Sandton, Gauteng - South Africa

Fri Nov 19, 2021

Regular Price

R699 Per person

Price you'll pay with DSL Telecom's promo code:

R489.30 per person

Saving you R209.70

Zoholics Cape Town

The Westin, Cape Town - South Africa

Tue Nov 23, 2021

Regular Price

R699 Per person

Price you'll pay with DSL Telecom's promo code:

R489.30 per person

Saving you R209.70

Why attend Zoholics South Africa?

Zoholics is designed to give you the opportunity to learn, network and get the resources to take your teams to the next level. In this event you'll hear about the latest Zoho solutions, get inspired by the visionary keynotes and experience hands-on workshops and one-on-one sessions, and connect with like-minded peers who also use Zoho to drive their businesses.

Here's what you can expect

Product Insights and Demos

See Zoho's latest features come to life! Learn how Zoho's business applications can be used to develop businesses from multiple sectors.

What you'll experience:

Latest product enhancements and beta-testing features
Demonstrations by product experts
Top strategies for scaling up business functions
Best practices to improve customer satisfaction

Get Personal With Product Experts

Meet one-on-one with Zoho and DSL Telecom experts in order to engage with them.

How you'll engage:

Personally meet Zoho's engineers, marketers and business strategists
Exclusive one-on-one with Zoho insiders
Ask your questions and get expert advise
Get best practices for your business workflows

Inspiring Guests and Partners

Learn from and be inspired by Zoho's honored guests and distinguished partners at the forefront of technology.

What you'll learn:

Insights on the future trends in the industry
Success stories from customers
How to upskill your existing workforce
How to growth hack your business

Get 30% off your Zoholics South Africa Ticket purchase when checking out using the DSL Telecom Promo Code

Once you have claimed your promo code you will be directed to Zoho's ticket registration page where you can purchase your ticket and apply your promo code on checkout.

How to book your Zoholics South Africa ticket:

Step 1: Navigate to www.zoholics.dsltelecom.co.za

Step 2: Show your interest by filling in the form

Step 3: Claim your 30% off discount code

Step 4: Book your ticket online with your DSL Telecom Promo Code

Book Your Ticket Online

A few snapshots from Zoholics South Africa 2021 Events

FAQ's

Will I get answers to all my questions at the Zoholics South Africa event?

All attendees will get a chance to spend some time with the Zoho experts team. The Zoho team will aim to answer as many questions as possible at the event.

Will there be opportunities for me to build and strengthen my business network?

All attendees will get a chance to spend some time with the Zoho experts team. The Zoho team will aim to answer as many questions as possible at the event.

Can I still buy a ticket if I decide to attend the event just a few hours before it starts?

Zoholics has limited seats available for these events. If tickets are still available, you can register until one hour before the event starts.

What all do I need to bring to attend the event?

All you need to bring is proof of identification so we can give you your participation badge.

Get 30% off your Zoholics South Africa Ticket purchase when checking out using the
DSL Telecom Promo Code

Get Your 30% Off Promo Code Now

6 All-New Zoho CRM Features That You Should Know About

Tue, 02 Nov 2021 16:07:16 +0200

Zoho as a leading software provider, has always been well-renowned for their constant technological innovations to their new apps and improvements to their existing apps with frequent feature releases across their entire software suite. 2021 has been no exception.

Their latest releases come with multiple innovative ways to further examine your customer data, uncover even more interesting trends and more ways to evaluate team and individual performance, to name but a few.

Zoho CRM empowers a global network of over 150,000 businesses in over 180 countries. It helps businesses engage with customers, convert more leads, and grow their revenue by closing more deals

Here we showcase our favourite 6 just-launched Zoho CRM features:

Subscribe to CRM editions from the mobile ''in app purchases feature''

With the Zoho CRM mobile app, you can oversee your sales on the move.

Whether you're a sales rep making calls, a sales manager monitoring the sales pipeline, or a business owner nurturing your business, approach your workday efficiently with a state-of-the-art mobile CRM system.

Your mobile CRM app not only covers your CRM software requirements on the go but also helps boost mobile sales productivity with features like search, call, email, check-in, near-me, and notifications. With a highly fluid, interactive interface, offline access, and the ability to sync data across all your devices automatically, Zoho's mobile CRM is perfect for field sales.

You can now upgrade to the Standard, Professional and Enterprise editions from the app settings from your iOS mobile device. You can do so by following the steps demonstrated in the image below.

1. Go to your Zoho CRM app

2. Navigate to settings

3. Tap ''Upgrade''

Introducing Prediction Analytics from Zia

Zia can understand business metrics, analyse it and predict the possible outcome that can help in decision-making and preparing ones business for the future. To substantiate the prediction results, Zia shows the analytics that were taken into consideration to predict an outcome.

With Zoho's new prediction analytics feature from Zia, you can now understand the analytics that Zia took into consideration to predict an outcome and make informed decisions to change the Prediction configuration to achieve more accurate outcomes.

With Zia’s predictions, you never have to guess. Zia scores and sorts your records into different focus groups, so you know how to treat every record. Zia scores your records as a percentage, calculated using win-behavior, the related sales activities, the responsiveness of the lead or prospect, and the time invested. As these scores change, you also understand which sales activity has an impact on your prediction score.

Compare KPIs or targets in Zoho Motivator

Motivator for Zoho CRM inspires healthy, competitive sales by capturing the data from your CRM account to create a competitive environment for your sales team using sales activities. Motivate your team's sales performance via competition and gamification.

Evaluate team, individual, company or time-specific performance to know whether there is an increase or decrease in KPI performance or target parameters.

For example, the increase or decrease in trend can be viewed by comparing the previous month's or last day's data with that of the current month and present day respectively. Likewise, comparison can be drawn between the current and previous month's performance for a particular field.

Introducing Zone Analysis - a new Dashboard component

Zoho CRM has also introduced a new dashboard component called "Zone Analysis" to provide more detailed analytical insights of business data. Zone analysis distributes data into different zones which are created by taking the parameters in the X and Y axes into consideration. It makes understanding of data easier and make informed decisions.

Use Zone Analysis to understand the business data that requires more attention and those that are doing well with the help of comparative analysis between two parameters.

Zoho CRM offers many analytic tools that help users decode business data into simpler graphical forms that are easy to understand and can be shared with peers across the organisation. One of these tools is Zones, where data points are plotted on a graphical area to represent the most optimal to least optimal conditions in the form of zones.

In Zone Analysis, the darkest zone represents the best or the most optimal data point and the lightest zone indicates the least optimal data point.

Transform your CRM user experience using Canvas

Canvas is a no-code, drag-and-drop design studio built into Zoho CRM where you can create contextual, immersive experiences for your entire team.

Now you can redesign your CRM record detail page with this easy-to-use, drag-and-drop design studio that compliments your business, industry, culture and methods.

The Canvas detail page allows you customise the record detail page to your preference by letting you add background colour to each field, arrange them in a different order, use custom buttons instead of field names, use different font styles and a lot more. This view is available in all the modules, including the custom modules.

New metrics and charts in Webform Analytics

Web forms simplify the process of capturing visitors or users information from your website into your CRM system. They are designed to automate the importing of data from websites into Zoho CRM. Non-technical users find it easy to design and publish their own web forms.

Web forms are supported for Leads, Contacts, Cases and any other Custom CRM Modules that you have in your account.

Most of the time, organisations host multiple webpages that help them focus on a wider audience and generate more leads. It is also important to analyse the performance of each web form to understand if they are serving the desired purpose.

Web form analytics help you analyse the performance of the web forms by identifying how well the visitors interact with your web forms and what causes them to drop off.

The new metrics include:

The individual form analytics will display abandon rate in submissions and average time spent.
In the field-based analysis, metrics like: Time spent on fields, field correction rate, field drop rate and field filled order will be available.
Submission based on the device source will also be available

And there there you have it. DSL Telecom's top 6 Zoho CRM enhancements for 2021 so far. If you want to learn more about Zoho CRM and what it can do for your business, get in touch with one of our Zoho Specialists today and book your free Zoho CRM Software Demo.

Book Your Free Zoho CRM Demo

Zoho Apps vs Zoho One, which version of Zoho is right for your business

Mon, 18 Oct 2021 09:34:00 +0200

Zoho One - The Operating System For Business

For the last 2 decades, Zoho has made the experience of managing and building customer relationships super-simple for many businesses the world over. Zoho is arguably one of the most successful business software solutions companies internationally with over 24 years of experience in business software development. Zoho began with its Zoho CRM platform in 2005 and has expanded to all different departments of business and enterprise.

In 2017, The Zoho Corporation launched its most innovative product yet to the SAAS marketplace – Zoho One – ''One Operating System For Your Entire Business'' at a very affordable per-user price. Zoho One is a broad and cohesive set of applications that work collectively to run an entire business on the cloud. It includes more than 45 web applications and an equal number of mobile apps under a single sign-on, with centralised administration and provisioning making it a true operating system for any business. While each application punches above its weight against the competition, collectively they deliver a knockout punch.

One question that many of our Zoho customers ask us, is ''What is the difference between having different Zoho app licences vs a Zoho One licence?'' Here we take a look at the key differences:

What a Zoho One licence costs versus what you get for Zoho One pricing:

What is the main advantage to investing in a Zoho One licence?

Zoho One is really competitively priced because you're not paying for every single app on its own which would only be compounded as you add on additional apps. Instead, with a Zoho One licence, you're paying for a bundle or package of applications so ultimately if you sign up for just one Zoho app, you only get access to that app whereas for an unbelievable price of R450, Zoho One gives you access to the enterprise edition of every single app and what's more, the apps all integrate seamlessly with one another.

With Zoho One, Zoho has put together all the applications a company needs to acquire and serve its customers (marketing, sales and support apps); run its operations (finance, recruiting, and HR apps); and provide all the tools for its employees to work collaboratively and get their work done (office suite, mail, personal productivity, and collaboration apps). With one of Zoho's newest features, Canvas, you get access to a drag-and-drop builder to build a custom CRM interface for your unique business needs.

Zoho App comparison pricing

Now to gain a better understanding of Zoho app pricing, let's take a look at 5 of our best-selling Zoho apps and what they cost individually:

For Zoho's Enterprise CRM edition, you'll pay R525 per user / per month / billed annually.

For Zoho's most popular subscriber-based plan for a maximum of 5000 subscribers, you'll pay R506 per month / billed annually.

For Zoho's Professional Social edition, you'll pay R375 per month / billed annually or for their brand new Premium edition, you'll pay R562.50 per month / billed annually.

For Zoho's Professional Desk edition, you'll pay R300 per month / billed annually or for their Enterprise edition, R525 per month / billed annually.

For Zoho's Enterprise Projects edition, you'll pay R150 per month / billed annually.

Conclusion

It's easy to see that Zoho One has all the applications to run your business with one application so you save dramatically on compounded app costs for individual Zoho app licences. With Zoho One supporting every part of your business, not only you can get your work done from anywhere, on any device, you can focus on the big stuff that matters the most.

DSL Telecom is a Zoho Premium Partner in South Africa. If you need to speak to one of our Zoho Experts about Zoho One for your business, email us on sales@dsltelecom.co.za

Zoho One

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What CRM System Should You Choose in South Africa?

Mon, 11 Oct 2021 16:26:52 +0200

5 Best CRM Softwares for South African Businesses

Now that your organisation is on the look out for a CRM system, you will need to start with gaining a deeper understanding of your software requirements and what features you can expect from CRM software vendors. Although you've probably come here to make your informed decision on which is the best CRM software to choose for South African business, you've probably realised that selecting the perfect CRM system is no simple process.

The challenge lies not only in the fact that there are so many potential CRM solutions and technologies to choose from, but you also have to consider CRM system deployment options, ability to customise, cost, scalability and business value, before you make your choice.

Here is our 2021 guide on how to choose the right CRM software for your business.

1. Factors to consider when comparing CRM Systems

When it comes to customer relationship management (CRM), it’s important to choose the right CRM system with the capabilities that suit your business before embarking on your selection process.

7 important factors to consider in CRM comparisons are:

User-friendly software
Local partner with support, consultation, training and implementation services
Growth and scalability capabilities
Flexible reporting
Affordability
Highly customisable
Integration capabilities

Here is a blog post that details the 7 vital criteria to consider when selecting a CRM system for South African businesses

2. Features South African Businesses need in their CRM Software

A CRM solution opens up amazing opportunities for small businesses and large enterprises alike to thrive. Now more than ever, South African businesses need to expertly manage prospects and existing customers with great care. Using a platform with the best CRM features is an essential part of that strategy, so we compiled a CRM features list to help you get started.

Lead management is the backbone of a successful sales operation. Without effective leads, there’s no need for a CRM or even a sales team in the first place. This concept covers the first step in the sales cycle to create qualified opportunities and ultimately, satisfied customers.

Lead management is the process of tracking and managing prospective customers and CRM Systems should enable you to manage the process of converting prospects into potential customers (leads) by identifying, scoring and moving leads through the sales pipeline.

Follow up with leads automatically with preset emails and tasks or contact them yourself directly from your CRM. CRM Software Systems can nurture prospects all the way through the sales pipeline, from lead generation to closing the sale. Additionally, many CRMs, like Zoho CRM, allow users to create and store sales quotes, track invoices and follow up on documents.

Contact management & Marketing is a vital CRM capability. It allows users to segment contacts into groups to organise and better cater to them. With this CRM capability, you’ll be able to gather crucial customer data and strengthen your marketing strategies. It also improves the personalisation of all contact with customers, making them feel important and catered to. This is a key factor in customer satisfaction!

Many CRM solutions, like Zoho CRM, have built-in marketing tools, including email templates, email marketing pipelines, SMS messaging and lightweight project management tools. Some even offer competition tracking and sales forecasting capabilities.

Business intelligence tools, BI, reporting and dashboards have become some of the top CRM features. Users can view statistics in a highly visual, engaging perspective using customised reports and dashboards. They offer real-time data updates and a platform that can be accessed from various portals, improving ease of access for a variety of personnel. Management can use these reports to make data-driven decisions - an investment in CRM BI is an investment in the future of your business.

Most CRM software includes some reporting functionality, but the best CRM Systems, like Zoho Software, support live, dynamic and customisable dashboards. Make sure any exporting or importing needs you have (for instance, transferring information to and from Excel or QuickBooks) are compatible with the system you choose.

CRM automation refers to a CRM system’s ability to automate repetitive, manual tasks to streamline work and improve productivity. Automation of a CRM can encompass a range of functions across marketing, sales and service activities.

CRM tools are all about making it easier to manage every external interaction and relationship that’s essential for business success. Automation can free up time to focus on more meaningful and strategic work.

3. Top 5 CRM Softwares for South African Businesses

1: Zoho CRM Software

Zoho CRM is one of the larger organisations in the CRM market and is part of the Zoho suite of business management tools. Zoho CRM is an omnichannel cloud-based customer relationship management platform that helps local & global businesses to take control of their business processes to build lasting customer relationships. The web-based platform can be customised to suit industries of all types and sizes. Zoho CRM offers integration with over 50 Zoho products and extends its capacity with more than 300 third-party app extensions, including G Suite, Office 365, Salesforce and many other popular apps.

Businesses can use the Zoho CRM omnichannel CRM to nurture customer relationships anytime, anywhere. From desktop, to phone, to live chat, to email, to social media, businesses can communicate and connect with their clients to enhance the customer experience. Notifications can automatically alert users of each new customer interaction or new contact.

When it comes to a CRM solution, one size doesn't fit all businesses. That's why Zoho CRM lets businesses easily customize the interface to meet the particular requirements of their organisation. Zoho has over 13 million users, a good portion of them being South Africans, due to this Zoho now offers all 45 plus business software applications at a fixed South African rand price. Zoho seeks to make this adoption both simple and affordable by providing its world-class software solutions at a fair price, protected from exchange rate fluctuations.

2. MS Dynamics CRM

Microsoft Dynamics 365 is a multi-language, multi-currency enterprise resource planning (ERP) software. The solution is designed for midsize and larger companies, and is fully customisable and extensible through its development platform and tools. Dynamics 365 offers a range of tools for sales, customer service, field service management, talent acquisition, finance and operations, retail, project service automation, marketing, artificial intelligence and more.

With Microsoft Dynamics 365 businesses can unify their operations, projects, workflows and tasks in one centralised platform in order to aid decision making, build relationships with customers and operate efficiently. The individual applications within Microsoft Dynamics 365 can be used as standalone products, combine with one another or integrated with a wide range of external business systems in order to provide a completely customised solution. The platform integrates with third party applications such as Ameyo, Salesforce, DocuSign, PandaDoc, ADP, Gainsight, Tacton CPQ and more.

3. Salesforce CRM

Salesforce is a CRM cloud-based solution which caters towards companies of all sizes – it is a single platform intended to manage all aspects of sales, service, marketing and analytics, through area specific “clouds” in order to meet specific business needs.

With separate “clouds” for each arm of their CRM, Salesforce provides solutions suited for companies who wish to engage in different aspects of the modern consumer space while maintaining the ability to segregate operations between teams, avoiding over-complication while still allowing for cross-communication. Salesforce offers different services through separate price plans, so businesses only looking for partial CRM functionality can adjust their service level and costs to fit their needs.

4. Pipedrive CRM

Pipedrive is a deal-driven customer relationship management solution that also works as an account-management tool with the ability to assist with marketing and the entire sales process. Pipedrive's proactive nature automatically tracks and organises calls and emails and synchronises schedules across devices. One capability that might be especially attractive to most small to midsized businesses (SMBs) is Pipedrive's ability to visualise the sales process from start to finish.

Pipedrive's straightforward user interface is simple to pick up quickly. Smaller SMBs and entrepreneurs charged with CRM tasks will welcome its ease of use.

5. Hubspot CRM

HubSpot CRM takes care of all the little details - logging emails, recording calls and managing data - in a very intuitive manner therefore freeing up valuable selling time in the process. HubSpot CRM is used to organise, manage, track contacts and build better relationships with customers.

The CRM will also let your entire company operate off of one source of truth about the contacts in your database instead of sharing spreadsheets or finding emails. Every interaction is stored in a timeline, including notes about the contact and the content they’ve consumed. Organisations that are new to the business or mid-market companies accept the HubSpot CRM tool because it provides secured services and quick functions that are easily understood.

4. Why we highly recommend Zoho CRM

Zoho CRM - with its broad coverage, deep features and intuitive UI - can go head to head against any other big brand name when it comes to technology and functionality. Where other CRMs use predatory business practices and aggressive, multi-year contracts to strong arm users into sticking around, Zoho is so confident in the strength of their CRM System that they offer flexible, month-to-month subscriptions that can grow with your business.

Zoho CRM is a widely adopted customer relationship management (CRM) platform, which has a strong emphasis on increasing leads, accelerating sales and measuring performance. It makes great use of artificial intelligence (AI), and its business intelligence features can empower remote workforces to achieve more together. Advanced options such as Zia, the AI-powered assistant, provide exceptional lead and deal predictions to identify the potential customers who are most likely to convert, helping sales teams focus their efforts in the most efficient way possible. The user-friendly platform integrates with hundreds of popular apps and software, making it easy to build a custom CRM for any business.

Zoho offers transparent pricing based on monthly and annual terms. There are four bundled service options. Free trials are available for each subscription level. The Standard bundle includes everything in the free version plus added features. (Each successive tier includes everything available in the bundles that precede it.)

We recommend Zoho CRM for:

Small businesses looking to implement their first unified CRM software solution.
Any size of business with a sales-focused model that wants to gamify the selling process to build camaraderie and competitiveness as well as increase communication and collaboration across remote teams.
Medium-sized businesses that want to streamline their sales processes with helpful organisation and insights from an AI-powered assistant.
Businesses that need best-in-class analytics for reliable decision-making.
Teams that require a CRM that integrates with existing business applications.
Organisations that want a solution without a steep learning curve and a system that quickly and easily fits right into their business systems.

Since partnering with Software Development Giant, Zoho Corporation in 2012, we at DSL Telecom have stepped up the Zoho Partner Status tiers and this year, we're exhilarated to have been officially recognised as a Zoho Premium Partner - the first and currently the only Zoho Premium Partner in South Africa.

If adopting Zoho's products is a dream for your company, but limited people-power and a tight budget have been holding you back, your best bet is to hire a Zoho Premium Partner like DSL Telecom. From start to finish, we take care of your needs and ensure a seamless, cost-effective solution that promises fast results.

Learn the prime benefits are when dealing with a Zoho partner in South Africa here.

Get in touch with a Zoho Specialist

Discuss your business requirements, get a free demo &
determine if Zoho would be a good fit for your business

Book Your Free Demo

DPO South Africa, SA's biggest payment service provider turned to DSL Telecom to help enhance their Zoho ONE capabilities

Fri, 27 Aug 2021 16:33:07 +0200

About DPO Paygate

DPO South Africa, is a local entity of DPO Group that offers payment solutions. Paygate is their top tier payment gateway, trusted by leading e-commerce businesses, hospitality providers, and merchants of all sizes and industries. Paygate enables companies to accept card, mobile, and other major payment methods from directly within their website, making it easier for them to get paid online.

How DPO SA geared up for growth with Zoho One & DSL Telecom

DPO SA had a shared Zoho system, that ran in conjunction with their Head Office, DPO Group. Running a shared system meant DPO SA experienced reduced business efficiencies.

To solve this challenge, DPO SA decided to create their own separate Zoho system and build their own defined processes which have been more aligned to their local business model. This allowed them to unlock their local data to gain deeper business insight.

DPO SA enlisted DSL Telecom, a Zoho Premium Partner in South Africa with 8+ years of Zoho implementation experience and support expertise to speed up the implementation and adoption of their new Zoho ONE instance.

DSL Telecom helped DPO SA succeed with Zoho ONE by designing, implementing and launching the following Zoho anchor applications for their business:

Zoho CRM, an online customer relationship management software for managing sales, marketing and support was customised to run the PayGate sales process, show status of services and manage on-boarding of partners. Today, Zoho CRM is used to give DPO employees info about customers and partners all in one place.

DSL Telecom created blueprints in Zoho CRM, which helped the DPO team process, prioritise and manage the on-boarding of partners and customer requests more effectively. Previously, employees had to move a customer or partner manually down the line. Now, most steps have been automated in Zoho CRM by DSL Telecom's Zoho experts, which gives DPO SA employees more time to focus on sales and partner support. Email templates were also designed and leveraged to increase the efficiency and professionalism of DPO SA's teams. Email templates can be sent on a moments notice or even through automation, ensuring accuracy and on-brand content.

Zoho Sign is a digital signing service that lets you execute contracts quickly without the hassles of transforming paper documents while ensuring security and legality. By introducing Zoho Sign, the DPO SA team ensured faster and better turnaround times for signed digital partner contracts. It works completely on the cloud and integrates readily with your everyday apps for a completely seamless signing experience.

Introducing new internal processes was the tip of the iceberg for DPO SA, they also wanted new ways of connecting with their customers in order to continue to boost their sales, support and marketing activities. DSL Telecom customised and implemented Zoho Sales IQ, an online chat application which identifies visitors on the DPO SA website, it keeps customers engaged through automation and helps them communicate with DPO SA teams via message and audio call. Zoho CRM and Zoho Sales IQ were also integrated, giving the DPO SA team visibility into how many website visits or chat engagements their customers have over their customer lifespan.

Thanks to the help of DSL Telecom, more than 115 DPO SA employees now use Zoho ONE to share and track info about leads, partners and customers better. DPO's SA's journey with Zoho ONE is not over yet, the company plans to continue automating processes and exploring what's possible with the other Zoho applications, using DSL Telecom's Customer Success Package.

Empower your team with DSL Telecom & Zoho

Speak to one of our Zoho Experts today

Speak to an expert

An ideal friendship: DSL Telecom Phone System & Zoho CRM

Mon, 19 Apr 2021 17:01:28 +0200

In the age of multichannel communications, your customers are communicating to your teams through chat, email, social media and (of course) telephone. Keeping up to date with what a customer requires is even harder when all these channels act like perfect strangers — remaining separate and detached. That is why we suggest you integrate your phone and CRM software. A seamless CRM phone integration, in many ways, turns these two critical communication platforms into best friends: effortlessly in tune and always working together to achieve more than each could alone. The good news is that Zoho CRM & DSL Telecom Phone System have already been introduced and collaborate seamlessly.

In today's blog we'll be discussing what makes the Zoho CRM & DSL Telecom PBX integration the best of companions.

Click here to learn more about DSL Telecom's Cloud Phone System
Click here to start your FREE Zoho CRM trial

Easier tracking

Make manual data entry a thing of the past with DSL Telecom and Zoho CRM's automatic call logging feature. Accurate and descriptive notes on your customer is your team's secret weapon to providing superior service! The call pop-up window enables your team to add notes, create follow-up tasks or assign the contact you spoke with to someone else. You will never lose track or forget about a conversation that you had with a customer.

Call pop-ups to better serve your customers

Zoho's CRM Software can store, access and analyse large amounts of diverse information, including detailed caller identification and call history. Linking your telephony to your CRM gives your sales team quick access to previous call interactions and customer details before the call connects. This enables you to quickly prepare for the customer interaction and ultimately you're now able to assist the customer promptly - saving time for all parties.

Every call from your customer automatically displays a pop-up with the customers information on your screen. Pop-ups provide quick access to customer records which helps to get to the heart of the matter quickly. Having this information handy when a customer calls, gives your team the opportunity to provide a personalised customer service.

Gives you more data

Providing your team with constructive feedback is vital to motivate, improve and enhance your workforce. It is essential to measure KPIs such as call rates, upselling activity and conversion rates. Integrating your telephony with your CRM system helps monitor and analyse staff tendencies and capabilities, providing supervisors and managers with useful, quantifiable data. This integration gives you the opportunity to generate reports. With reports, you can track trends and teams' performance during specific periods and motivate them to improve by providing proof of superb performance or the need to improve on certain aspects of their work. Built-in charts and reports let you visualise your call data and help you figure out how to provide a better customer experience.

Elevate productivity

The ability to accept incoming calls and make outgoing calls with a single click is facilitated through DSL Telecom's Cloud PBX and Zoho's CRM system, enhancing the swiftness of your staff. Stop wasting time searching for contacts' numbers and dialing numbers - make calls straight from Zoho CRM. While you're looking at your leads or contacts, just click the call icon to initiate a call.

What does this integration look like?

Zoho CRM & DSL Telecom Phone Integration: Better Together

The future belongs to companies that maintain strong customer relations and improve efficiency at serving them. Technology is an effective way to help your business achieve both these goals. By integrating your CRM and telephony services, you can make your business stand out even in a hyper-competitive market. Our Zoho Consultants and Cloud PBX Specialists understand how essential communication and building relationships are to businesses. Let us help you unify your communications with your customers.

Try this integration

How we hacked team collaboration using Zoho Cliq

Thu, 04 Mar 2021 09:44:11 +0200

Zoho Cliq has been an indispensable part of our team's collaboration since the Covid-19 pandemic started. With only a week's notice to a national lockdown, we needed a team communication platform that would allow our teams to communicate seamlessly while being remote.

Zoho Cliq is a business messaging tool that lets teams communicate in real time. Members can create channels for specific projects or teams and make audio and video calls to work more productively with their teams.

Making the choice to use Zoho Cliq as our internal communication platform has vastly benefited our team. It simplified our team communication in the middle of a global crisis. With organised conversations, easy-to-access information and integrating Zoho Cliq to the tools we love, we were able to not only maintain but double our team's productivity.

In this blog, we’ve highlighted some tips that DSL Telecom effectively used with Zoho Cliq to collaborate better. Take a look at our foolproof tips to master effective team collaboration.

Tip #1:

We easily scheduled daily morning and afternoon calls with our teams to stay updated with our projects and productivity.

Every day our team members need to collaborate on projects. Using Cliq, we can easily make a call directly from any personal chat or group chat. For an even stronger team collaboration, we can easily share our screen in the call! This enables us to keep everyone on the same page at all times.

Tip #2:

We created a team-wide channel called #MarketingSuggestions - dedicated to sharing marketing ideas, tips and recommendations.

Using Cliq enables us to streamline our discussions with Channels — a smart, transparent space for synchronous team collaboration. Channels is a great way for our team to make sure our projects and topic ideas, resources and work aligns with our teammates, ensuring that our projects are successfully executed.

Tip #3:

We have preset presence updates to let our teammates know when we are available to collaborate.

Zoho Cliq gives users a good view of who's available, away, or currently in a meeting. Be more efficient with your time by knowing if your team members are available to have a discussion, if they're in a meeting or away from their workspace.

Tip #4:

We use reminders to stay up to date and never miss important messages.

We stay on top of important messages and requests by setting in-chat reminders. This way, Cliq will make sure we never accidentally let something important slip away, while at the same time, organising messages for an easy view of what is important to you.

Tip #5:

We easily organise and stay on top of our messages with Zoho Cliq's message staring feature.

You can bookmark or save important messages, images and videos by starring them in a relevant category that can be accessed anytime.

★ Important ★ To-Do ★ Note ★ Boss ★ Follow-Up

Tip #6:

We continue to build our company culture through lively conversations using Zomojis and GIFs

Something as simple as sharing GIFs and reacting to a message with Zomojis brings your team together, letting your team members know what you think. GIFs are known to be an effective and creative way to communicate and engage.

Tip #7:

We are able to keep up with our teammates on the go

Cliq is available on mobile and tablet devices, in iOS and Android operating systems. Chat your way to productive business communication, wherever you are, on any device.

Transform your team's collaboration with Zoho Cliq

Working remotely shouldn't take away all the little quirks you enjoy about working in the office. From getting into work and greeting your co-workers, to being able to easily check if someone is available for a discussion and taking a quick coffee break together, Cliq's remote work capabilities make sure you don't miss out on the little things.

If you're interested in Zoho Cliq, reach out to DSL Telecom, a Zoho Consulting Partner by clicking the "Speak to a Zoho Expert" button below.

Start Your Free Trial Today

Speak to a Zoho Expert

3 easy steps to cancel your Telkom service online

Thu, 04 Feb 2021 16:11:49 +0200

How do I cancel my Telkom subscription? You ask. When switching, upgrading or migrating between services or entirely opting out of the Telkom network, it is necessary to cancel your contract. You can cancel your Telkom LTE, Telkom Fibre, Telkom ADSL or Telkom Mobile contracts anytime. Cancellation fees may be charged.

If you would like to upgrade or renew your Telkom LTE service, this can easily be done from your 21st month of your contract commitment term. Check if you are eligible to upgrade or renew your Telkom LTE to a better deal here: www.ltedeals.co.za/renew.We will go ahead and get you up and running within 1 working day for Telkom LTE Sim only renewals and 3 - 5 working days for Telkom LTE Sim + Router renewals.

If you would like to migrate your existing Telkom LTE service this can easily be done from your 3rd month of your contract commitment term, check if you are eligible to migrate your Telkom LTE to a better deal here: www.ltedeals.co.za/renew. We will go ahead and get you up and running within 1 working day for Telkom LTE Sim only renewals and 3 - 5 working days for Telkom LTE Sim + Router renewals.

If you would like to upgrade or renew your existing Telkom Fibre Service, you can do that by simply signing up for your desired package online here: www.fibredeals.co.za/migrate

You can cancel your Telkom contract online with these three easy steps:

Step 1:

Go to www.telkom.co.za and select “Login” on the top right hand corner to login to your “My Telkom” profile. This will take you to the ''Welcome To My Telkom '' page where you can select your login type.

Telkom Customer Portal

You will then be directed to the Telkom self-service portal that allows you to manage your Telkom internet services. The self-service portal will enable you to: view your data usage, usage history, top-ups, enable out-of-bundle data and manage your password.

If you don't have a ''My Telkom'' profile, then select ''Register'' from the login menu to create a Telkom user profile. Follow the 4 step process to create your user account and link your services to your account.

Step 2:

Once you’re logged in to your Telkom profile, navigate to the dashboard and select the "Manage Products'' option.

Step 3:

Next, you should navigate to the ''Cancellations'' tab and select ''Start Process'' to initiate the cancellation process. Fill in all the required details. Once done, you can upload all the supporting documents required for confirmation of cancellation (e.g. a copy of your ID document)

Read and accept the Terms and Conditions and Submit.

Fill in all the required details on the required fields. Once done you can upload all the supporting documents required for confirmation of cancellation (e.g. a copy of your ID document)

Read and accept the Terms and Conditions and Submit.

Helpful tips:

Once you have submitted your service cancellation request you will receive a reference number. You will need this reference number if ever you need Telkom to follow up on your request.
If you have any ISP services with other service providers on your Telkom line, you will need to cancel those services before you submit your request to cancel your Telkom services.
Telkom services that are still in their contract phase may incur cancellation penalties.
If you wish to have any credit balance refunded to you upon receiving your final bill, please log a dispute with Telkom Billing on 10210.
Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) Service Cancellation Process: Submit your cancellation request via email to StocST@telkom.co.za for a fixed line service, or BusinessMobile@telkom.co.za for a mobile service.
Deceased Cancellation Process: In order to cancel a service of a deceased person, an email must be sent to Lsdanational@telkomsa.co.za. The following documentation is required: copy of deceased's ID document, death certificate and the contact details of the person responsible for the deceased's estate.
To follow up on the status of your cancellation or to escalate the cancellation process, please contact Telkom directly on the following channels, quoting your cancellation reference number:

Online chat: https://telkom.clevva.com/telkom-gethelp/#/chat/afc53
Email: natcc@telkom.co.za
Call The Call Centre on: 012 311 2473

When will your cancelled Telkom contract end?

After successfully submitting your cancellation request online, your cancellation order will take 30 days to complete and at the end of the following month you will receive your final bill.

Here is a breakdown of the cancellation process:

Day 1: The customer submits a contract cancellation contract.

Day +/- 7: Telkom processes the request presented alongside the supporting documents.

Normal bill: Telkom sends a regular bill to the client as the cancellation request is processed.

Day 30: Telkom finalises the cancellation order marking the end of a 30-day notice.

Day 60: The customer receives the final bill from the company.

Termination: After clearing the bill, the customer has successfully cancelled their contract with Telkom.

If you need to get in touch with Telkom, we have created a blog with all the contact and support channel details you need.

Telkom Support Channels

If you would like to upgrade to fibre, visit: www.uncappedfibre.co.za

If you would like to renew/upgrade or switch to LTE, visit: www.l tedeals.co.za/

DSL Telecom customer reviews: stories from our customers

Thu, 04 Feb 2021 16:11:49 +0200

Over 15 000 customers have come to us for a better deal on Telkom LTE deals, Vox Fibre Internet deals, Business Cloud Phone Systems, Business Voice Products, Zoho Implementations and Zoho Support. Read our customer reviews below to find out how our unique service culture has changed their world.

DSL Telecom has a 4.4 average rating from the 3 major review platforms in South Africa

Customers all over South Africa are getting better customer service with DSL Telecom

Are you a DSL Telecom customer?

We would love to hear from you, tell us about your experience

Leave Your Review

DSL Telecom - Blog #zohosupport

The Top 5 Cloud Accounting Systems For South African Businesses

Our top pick for South African businesses

Zoholics South Africa 2021 - Zoho's annual user conference is coming to Cape Town & Johannesburg

Upcoming Events

Zoholics Johannesburg

Zoholics Cape Town

Why attend Zoholics South Africa?

Product Insights and Demos

Product Insights and Demos

Get Personal With Product Experts

Get Personal With Product Experts

Inspiring Guests and Partners

Inspiring Guests and Partners

Get 30% off your Zoholics South Africa Ticket purchase when checking out using the DSL Telecom Promo Code

How to book your Zoholics South Africa ticket:

A few snapshots from Zoholics South Africa 2021 Events

FAQ's

Get 30% off your Zoholics South Africa Ticket purchase when checking out using the ​DSL Telecom Promo Code

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What a Zoho One licence costs versus what you get for Zoho One pricing:

What is the main advantage to investing in a Zoho One licence?

Zoho App comparison pricing

Conclusion

Zoho One

What CRM System Should You Choose in South Africa?

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5 Best CRM Softwares for South African Businesses

Get in touch with a Zoho Specialist

Discuss your business requirements, get a free demo & ​determine if Zoho would be a good fit for your business

DPO South Africa, SA's biggest payment service provider turned to DSL Telecom to help enhance their Zoho ONE capabilities

About DPO Paygate

How DPO SA geared up for growth with Zoho One & DSL Telecom

Empower your team with DSL Telecom & Zoho

Speak to one of our Zoho Experts today

An ideal friendship: DSL Telecom Phone System & Zoho CRM

Easier tracking

Call pop-ups to better serve your customers

Gives you more data

Elevate productivity

What does this integration look like?

Zoho CRM & DSL Telecom Phone Integration: Better Together

How we hacked team collaboration using Zoho Cliq

3 easy steps to cancel your Telkom service online

DSL Telecom customer reviews: stories from our customers

Telkom LTE Customer Testimonials

Sasha Le Grange - Telkom Uncapped LTE

Fisokuhle Gumede - Telkom LTE 240GB

Leonard Mandal - Telkom Uncapped LTE

Vox Fibre To The Home Customer Testimonials

Nico Ras - Vox Vuma fibre to the home

Wandi Ndimande - Vox Frogfoot FTTH

Craig Domingo - Vox Octotel uncapped home fibre

Zoho Software Services Customer Testimonials

David Randalls - Zoho Services

Justin Surridge - Zoho Services

Yolanda Kirsten - North West University - Zoho Software Training

DSL Telecom Cloud PBX

Brad Munz - Kumoflow - DSL Telecom Cloud Phone System

Mitch Ferriera - Bevan Group - DSL Telecom PBX System & voice

Seth Vögler - Valenture Institute - DSL Telecom Cloud Phone System

Fibre To The Business Customer Testimonials

Gavin Paris - E-boil Systems - Liquid Business Fibre

Leon Steyn - Preferred Solutions - Vox FTTB

Marc Kruger - Top CCTV - Vox Business Fibre

Are you a DSL Telecom customer?

Get 30% off your Zoholics South Africa Ticket purchase when checking out using the
DSL Telecom Promo Code

Discuss your business requirements, get a free demo &
determine if Zoho would be a good fit for your business