ソフトブレーン List of Products and Services

Among the SFA/CRM products that are becoming common practice to implement, Salesforce.com (hereafter referred to as Salesforce) has a high reputation among top vendors. However, does Salesforce meet the needs of all companies? We would like to examine the features of Salesforce's SFA, Sales Cloud, and consider user reviews to identify the To-Do items necessary for successful implementation. *For more details on this column, please refer to the related links. For further inquiries, feel free to contact us.*

• SFA/Sales Support System

In recent years, the importance of "business systematization" has been emphasized in the business scene. Famous examples of business systems include customer relationship management (CRM) and sales force automation (SFA). In short, it refers to incorporating systems to improve work efficiency. However, business systematization cannot be achieved overnight, and it is necessary to carefully proceed with the implementation while understanding both the advantages and disadvantages. Here, we will summarize the key points of implementing business systems in detail. *For more detailed information, please refer to the related links. For further inquiries, feel free to contact us.*

• SFA/Sales Support System

In recent years, the business environment in Japan has undergone significant changes due to intensified competition with overseas companies resulting from globalization, changes in the market environment due to advancements in digital technology, and labor shortages and shifts in consumer needs caused by a declining birthrate and an aging population. In this context, companies are being compelled to build new business models and reassess existing operations, making excellent sales strategies and organizational strength essential for survival. This time, we will explain the key points required for sales organizations in an era of intensified competition, as well as specific strategies for achieving them. *For more details on the column, please refer to the related links. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us.*

• SFA/Sales Support System

Are you aware that the points of awareness and attitudes differ between people who can and cannot succeed in sales? Sales activities do not yield results simply because one has excellent communication skills, is intelligent, or possesses extensive knowledge. To lead sales activities to success, it is important to aim for skill improvement, create a solid roadmap, and practice consistently every day. In this article, we will explain the essential abilities for enhancing sales skills and the importance of a skill map sheet. *For more details on the column, you can view it through the related links. Please feel free to contact us for more information.*

• SFA/Sales Support System

Since the implementation of the work style reform-related law in April 2019, many companies have been reviewing their work styles. As part of this effort, various initiatives are being undertaken by many companies to create a workplace environment that considers work-life balance. However, the reform of work styles is not straightforward, and many companies seem to be struggling with it. In this article, we will discuss the reasons for changing work styles and key points to consider when promoting the review of work styles. *For more detailed information, please refer to the related links. For further inquiries, feel free to contact us.*

• SFA/Sales Support System

Preco Foods increased its customer base and market share through a focused new sales strategy and four key strengths. As a result of expanding its share, the company faced the necessity for sales transformation and also dealt with challenges related to the gap between the sales environment and its ideal state. What results did Preco Foods achieve by building a cooperative relationship with Softbrain? We will thoroughly analyze the sales DX strategy centered on sales tech (CRM/SFA). *For detailed content of the column, please refer to the related link. For more information, feel free to contact us.*

• SFA/Sales Support System

In today's sales activities, where the introduction of digital tools and measures has become commonplace, various business terms such as "CRM," "PDCA," "KPI," and "OODA" are frequently used. The frameworks and methods for utilizing tools are diverse, and many people lack prior knowledge, leading to confusion or only a vague understanding. It is essential to acquire correct definitions and knowledge. Therefore, we have prepared a glossary that allows for a simple understanding of "terms used in sales activities," which often appear in our media, along with explanations. *For detailed content of the column, please refer to the related links. For more information, feel free to contact us.*

• SFA/Sales Support System

As the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry is vocally promoting it, it is not an exaggeration to say that digital transformation (DX) will become a theme for the entire Japanese industrial sector in the future. In this article, I would like to present an overview of DX, what is necessary for its realization, the challenges related to its implementation, and the mindset and actions needed for DX. *For detailed content of the column, please refer to the related links. For more information, feel free to contact us.

• SFA/Sales Support System

As the global pandemic enters its second year, more companies in Japan are adopting a three-day workweek. From the perspective of businesses, this can reduce utility costs, while for employees, it allows for a more fulfilling personal life. However, there are many challenges associated with its implementation. It is clear that to complete what has been done in five working days within four days, a review of business processes is essential. Let’s check the to-dos necessary to maintain traditional productivity and conduct efficient business activities after the introduction of the three-day workweek. *For more details on the column, please refer to the related link. For further inquiries, feel free to contact us.*

• SFA/Sales Support System

Sales forecasts are essential for setting sales targets in the sales and marketing department. By creating accurate sales forecasts in a timely manner, a highly planned management can also be established. However, do you not think that this requires investment in specialized sales forecasting tools and sufficient know-how? In fact, by using the statistical functions and analysis features built into Excel, you can create a basic level of sales forecast that can be used in practice. This time, let's take a look at how to create a sales forecast using Excel. *For detailed content of the column, please refer to the related link. For more information, feel free to contact us.*

• SFA/Sales Support System

SaaS businesses, such as subscriptions, have rapidly gained popularity in recent years due to their convenience. Sales activities in SaaS businesses differ from the traditional "sell and done" approach, as building a continuous relationship with customers is essential, which also changes the nature of the work and the skills required. This article will explain the characteristics of SaaS sales, the nature of the work, and support tools for efficiency. *For detailed content of the column, please refer to the related links. For more information, feel free to contact us.*

• SFA/Sales Support System

Due to the state of emergency declared in response to the coronavirus infection outbreak, it is said that 40% of companies in Tokyo have implemented telework (remote work). Many companies are experiencing a decrease in sales, and in order to cut costs, opportunities for face-to-face business meetings, office meetings, and dining have decreased, leading to a predicted reduction in office demand. It is expected that the number of people engaged in remote work will increase more than ever, and the way we shape our future career plans will likely align with this trend. *For more details on the column, please refer to the related link. For further inquiries, feel free to contact us.*

• SFA/Sales Support System

Many people might feel that while the inquiry form seems useful for our business, they don't quite understand what it is. In today's digital age, utilizing inquiry forms is an effective way to gain customer trust and conduct business. This article will explain the overview and benefits of inquiry forms, how to create them, and also include points on how to leverage them for your business. *You can view the detailed content of the column through the related links. For more information, please feel free to contact us.

• SFA/Sales Support System

Task management is a fundamental skill for business professionals, regardless of their assigned department. To handle various business tasks that arise daily reliably and without omissions within deadlines, problem-solving abilities, along with the skill to manage tasks, are essential elements. However, as can be seen by the piles of books on scheduling and task management in the business section of bookstores, task processing remains an eternal challenge. Additionally, the choice between managing tasks using analog methods or utilizing digital devices and apps for task management is also a perplexing one. *For more details on the column, you can view it through the related links. Please feel free to contact us for more information.*

• SFA/Sales Support System

Sales forecasting is the process of predicting future sales for a specific period by considering past performance and social conditions. Since it serves as an important guideline when formulating management strategies, accurate sales forecasts utilizing tools like SFA are required. This article explains the methods for calculating sales forecasts and ways to improve their accuracy. *For detailed content of the column, you can view it through the related links. Please feel free to contact us for more information.*

• SFA/Sales Support System

There are many subsidies available that can help reduce the costs of implementing telework. However, it can be challenging to find the applicable ones, as there are various options available for companies nationwide and those with bases in each prefecture. Additionally, each subsidy and grant has an application deadline, so if you refer to outdated information, you may end up missing the opportunity to apply and wasting time. Therefore, this time, we will introduce all 55 subsidies that can be used for telework implementation costs in a way that makes it easier to narrow them down. You will be able to quickly find the subsidies and grants your company can apply for, so please make use of this information. *You can view the detailed content of the column through the related links. For more information, please feel free to contact us.

• SFA/Sales Support System

The domestic equipment and machinery manufacturing industry/trading companies are in a saturated/mature market, making it difficult to continue traditional business styles. In such a context, establishing an "aftermarket business" is essential for securing further revenue. Additionally, it can be said that the domestic equipment and machinery manufacturing industry is lagging behind European and American companies in terms of digitalization. To leverage business potential and achieve revenue improvement, efforts to enhance customer experience (CX) through digital utilization are necessary. Therefore, this time, we will present "the key to establishing an aftermarket business that improves operating profit margins," along with case studies. *For more detailed information, please refer to the related links. Feel free to contact us for further inquiries.

• SFA/Sales Support System

As work style reforms progress and the spread of remote work and business digital transformation (DX) expands, the importance of business management is increasing even more. In this context, one widely used method of business management is the sales report, also known as sales daily reports or sales journals. The sales report (sales daily report) becomes more valuable when its purpose is understood and tools like SFA are utilized. In this article, we will explain the benefits and purposes of sales reports, as well as how to write them and key points to consider. *For more detailed information, please refer to the related links. Feel free to contact us for more details.*

• SFA/Sales Support System

Are you struggling to manage projects properly within your department? If project management is sloppy, it can lead to decreased operational efficiency and a potential decline in sales capability. A solution that is gaining attention is project management tools that allow you to register, manage, and share project information. These tools offer benefits such as visualizing each project and identifying bottlenecks in sales activities. This article introduces an overview of project management tools and recommends 10 products. *For more detailed information, please refer to the related links. Feel free to contact us for more details.*

• SFA/Sales Support System

The financial industry, which is the foundation of the Japanese economy and plays a leading role, is also experiencing the wave of digital transformation (DX). However, it can be said that the industry as a whole has not yet been able to fully leverage the cutting-edge effects of DX. I will explain the current situation regarding the slow progress of DX due to circumstances unique to the financial industry. By comparing your company’s efforts with those of other industries and the overall DX initiatives in Japan, you will be able to envision the impending DX crisis known as the "2025 cliff" as a reality. *For more details on the column, you can view it through the related links. Please feel free to contact us for more information.

• SFA/Sales Support System

The "framework," which is a common element and pattern in successful case studies. Using a framework to develop sales strategies is a path that anyone in sales can take. However, do you have confidence in knowing exactly what a framework is and which frameworks can be used for sales strategies? We have prepared an article on the foundational knowledge of frameworks that you may be hesitant to ask about now. *For detailed content of the column, you can view it through the related links. For more information, please feel free to contact us.

• SFA/Sales Support System

Customer management is important for both BtoC and BtoB businesses to increase sales and maintain good relationships with customers. However, many sales representatives may be struggling with thoughts like, "I want to manage customers properly, but I don't know how," or "I introduced a customer management tool, but I'm not using it effectively." To achieve effective customer management that leads to improved performance, it is crucial to understand the key points and objectives for success and to choose the appropriate methods accordingly. This article will explain the objectives of customer management, the key points for success, and how to choose the right tools. *For more detailed information, please refer to the related links. Feel free to contact us for more details.*

• SFA/Sales Support System

The new employee training held during this time of year when new employees join every year. Are you, as the instructors, conducting appropriate training and successfully supporting the new graduates' strong start? This article is focused on the theme of "New Employee Onboarding Management." *For detailed content of the column, you can view it through the related links. For more information, please feel free to contact us.*

• SFA/Sales Support System

The term "on-premises" is often heard when categorizing business tools. Many people likely have tools that are on-premises. However, while they may have a vague understanding of its meaning, few can explain its issues or which types of jobs or companies it is suitable for. Therefore, this time we will focus on the issues of on-premises solutions, comparing them with the contrasting cloud solutions, and detailing the steps for implementation. *For more details on the column, you can view it through the related links. Please feel free to contact us for more information.*

• SFA/Sales Support System

One-to-One marketing provides appropriate services individually based on data such as consumers' hobbies, attributes, and behavioral history. In today's world, where various information can be easily obtained from the internet and the channels through which consumers encounter information have diversified, this method is gaining attention as an effective approach. In this article, we will explain specific techniques, examples, and useful tools. *For detailed content of the column, please refer to the related links. For more information, feel free to contact us.*

• SFA/Sales Support System

Sharing and managing the personal knowledge and intuition of employees in an organized manner, knowledge management leads to innovation. In recent years, the demand for services utilizing IT has increased, and more companies are engaging in knowledge management. In this article, we will introduce important points to consider regarding knowledge management, tips for its operation, recommended books, and useful tools. *For detailed content of the column, please refer to the related links. For more information, feel free to contact us.*

• SFA/Sales Support System

With the implementation of work style reform setting limits on overtime, you may have questions like, "When will things change?" "Does this affect us?" "What happens if we don't comply?" The regulations on overtime limits apply to all companies, but there are many changes, making it difficult to understand when and how things will change. Therefore, we will clearly explain the details of the limit regulations, countermeasures, and successful case studies. Fundamentally, it is important to align with the trend of work style reform. Our company, which has improved productivity for over 5,000 companies, will also introduce methods to reduce overtime while increasing profits and productivity, so please take your time to refer to this information. *For detailed content of the column, you can view it through the related links. For more information, please feel free to contact us.

• SFA/Sales Support System

This column introduces "marketing techniques" that are useful for strengthening sales capabilities. In "What is NPS," we discuss its relationship with customer satisfaction and how it can be utilized in sales and marketing. In "What is Context," we explain its meaning, usage, and importance in business. Additionally, we introduce various marketing techniques such as "PEST analysis," "3C analysis," and "opt-out." *For more details on the column, you can view them through the related links. Please feel free to contact us for more information.*

• SFA/Sales Support System

In modern business scenes, the term "customer cultivation" is often heard. It refers to the idea of valuing existing customers and increasing sales, rather than just acquiring new ones. However, while many businesspeople understand the importance of customer cultivation, they often find themselves too busy managing their current tasks to focus on cultivation. Therefore, this article will explain useful concepts for successfully cultivating customers and the implementation of systems that can be used for customer onboarding. *For more detailed content of the column, please refer to the related links. For further inquiries, feel free to contact us.*

• SFA/Sales Support System

Digitalization has inevitably forced various industries to undergo transformation. Trading companies are no exception, and they are required to make the most of a wide range of data without being tied to their current business styles, providing services that are in line with the times. To succeed in future competition, transformation through DX (Digital Transformation) is also essential. This article will explain the reasons why trading companies should engage in DX, its benefits, and key points for utilization. *For more details on the column, please refer to the related links. For further inquiries, feel free to contact us.*

• SFA/Sales Support System

In response to the wave of societal changes brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, companies are being compelled to advance the adoption of IT in various areas and reassess their products and organizations. The measures for this are referred to as Digital Transformation (DX). When viewed within the framework of "sales," how should companies specifically respond? This will be explained based on examples from Japan and overseas. *For detailed content of the column, please refer to the related links. For more information, feel free to contact us.*

• SFA/Sales Support System

Due to the revision of labor-related laws for work style reform, a new flextime system that calculates overtime hours over a three-month period was introduced in April 2019. Unlike the previous flextime system that settled on a monthly basis, there are concerns that mistakes in calculating or settling working hours on a monthly basis could increase the burden of overtime pay. There is also a risk of exceeding the legal limits on working hours, which could lead to violations of regulations. Additionally, from a procedural standpoint, it will be mandatory to report to the labor standards inspection office, and the practical process of calculating working hours will become more complex. We will introduce the key points for adapting to these new systems and the features of the tools that support compliance with the new regulations. *For more details on the column, please refer to the related links. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us.*

• SFA/Sales Support System

In recent years, sales activities are fundamentally based on "sales activities across the entire corporate organization." This is because by accumulating and sharing various data such as know-how and experience in sales activities, customer information, and negotiation information, it becomes possible to enhance the overall sales efficiency of the organization and identify bottlenecks. In this context, SFA (Sales Force Automation) plays a significant role. However, as various vendors now offer SFA, many representatives may find themselves unsure of "which SFA is suitable for their company." This time, we will explain the SFA from NI Consulting, which has about 30 years of management consulting experience, covering its features, reputation, reviews, and pricing. *For detailed content of the column, you can view it through the related links. For more information, please feel free to contact us.*

• SFA/Sales Support System

In recent years, the term "solution sales" has become more common. However, many people may not fully understand what "solution sales" actually is or how to implement it. In this article, I would like to introduce the differences between solution sales and traditional sales styles, as well as practical methods for implementation, aimed at those who have such questions. *For more detailed content of the column, please refer to the related links. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us.*

• SFA/Sales Support System

Remote work is now becoming established as one way of working. This is part of the work style reform promoted by the government, and it has rapidly advanced due to the recent COVID-19 pandemic. In this article, we will introduce the essential environments that companies should prepare when implementing remote work, as well as useful items for creating an environment that enhances work efficiency even while working from home. *For detailed content of the column, you can view it through the related links. For more information, please feel free to contact us.

• SFA/Sales Support System

The job of a manager is to handle the tasks that arise from subordinates. However, there are times when the workload can become overwhelming, making it difficult to keep up with the tasks at hand. In such cases, it is important to take a moment to reassess the way you are currently working. By improving work efficiency and creating more time, you can benefit from launching new projects or performing tasks more accurately. In this article, I will introduce tips for improving work efficiency, so if you are struggling with methods to enhance your work efficiency, please refer to this. *For more detailed information, you can view the related links. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us.*

• SFA/Sales Support System

As the global pandemic enters its second year, more companies in Japan are adopting a three-day workweek. From the perspective of businesses, this system can reduce utility costs, while for employees, it allows for a more fulfilling personal life. However, there are many challenges associated with its implementation. It is clear that to complete tasks that were previously done in five working days within four days, a review of business processes is essential. Let's check the to-dos necessary to maintain traditional productivity and conduct efficient business activities after the introduction of the three-day workweek. *For more details on the column, please refer to the related link. Feel free to contact us for more information.*

• SFA/Sales Support System

Many companies are facing a challenging era in maintaining and improving their sales. To boost sales, many sales managers likely hope that their salespeople can somehow grasp the "tips for sales." In this column, we will introduce two perspectives that management, such as sales managers, should know in order to convey sales tips to their subordinates or help them grasp these tips. *For detailed content of the column, please refer to the related link. For more information, feel free to contact us.*

• SFA/Sales Support System

You who want to learn about "sales skills." Most people tend to buy "how-to sales books" at bookstores. In the world, there are various titles like "The Law of Absolutely Successful Salespeople" and "Tips for Becoming a Top Salesperson." Why is it that the books we pick up do not seem to benefit us? The content this time is based on the know-how of over 2,000 top salespeople, and it includes not only the "necessary skills" but also some examples of "how to do it," making it highly reproducible. *You can view the detailed content of the column through the related links. For more information, please feel free to contact us.*

• SFA/Sales Support System

Many people may be wondering how to effectively share information regarding business card management. With numerous free tools and CRMs available, do you know which tool to choose? There are certain points to consider for effective utilization. In this article, we will explain the key points and specific methods for managing everything from Excel and business card folders to free tools and CRM/SFA management. *For detailed content of the column, you can view it through the related links. For more information, please feel free to contact us.*

• SFA/Sales Support System

Proper management of work schedules is fundamental for a businessman. Delays in deadlines and forgetting appointments can significantly impact trust, so it is necessary to avoid them. Additionally, poor schedule management can lead to unnecessary overtime. By creating time flexibility, you can increase work productivity and enhance your personal life. Let's aim to be capable businessmen, not just focused on work. Here, we will explain in detail how to manage schedules effectively. *For detailed content of the column, you can view it through the related links. For more information, please feel free to contact us.*

• SFA/Sales Support System

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on corporate activities. A key point in continuing operations during the pandemic was the response to digital transformation (DX). This has left challenges not only for social and economic activities but also for internal business flows within companies. In such circumstances, there may be personnel who are anxious about how to approach DX in the future. Therefore, this article will discuss the necessity of DX and the reasons why DX implementation can fail, while also introducing ways to engage in DX to adapt to the post-COVID and with-COVID environments. *For more detailed content of the column, please refer to the related links. For further inquiries, feel free to contact us.*

• SFA/Sales Support System

Daily reports shared from salespeople to managers. These reports are an effort to confirm business details such as progress on numbers and customer situations, but there are many companies where they are merely formatted like reports and have become mere formalities. This time, I would like to introduce the key points to keep in mind when writing daily reports, as well as various daily report tools, while reaffirming the purpose and effects of daily reports. *For more detailed content of the column, please refer to the related links. For more information, feel free to contact us.*

• Other network tools

Are you struggling with 'new customer acquisition not going well'? According to a survey of business owners and sales executives, the overwhelmingly top response to sales challenges is that 'new customer acquisition is not going well.' Why is new customer acquisition such a significant theme? It is because the Japanese market has entered a mature phase rather than a growth phase, and in most industries, competition for customers has begun, making it impossible to grow solely with existing customers. As a result, business owners and sales managers set 'new customer acquisition' as a policy and instruct their subordinates to 'do it.' However, when comparing sales to existing customers and new customer acquisition, the latter is overwhelmingly more difficult. Subordinates who do not know the 'how-to' make excuses by saying they are 'busy with sales to existing customers' and are reluctant to pursue 'new customer acquisition.' *For more details on the column, please refer to the related link. For more information, feel free to contact us.

• SFA/Sales Support System

A subordinate said to me, "Work is tough" and "I want to quit," and they brought up the topic of resignation. Many managers may have encountered such situations. Resignation is often caused not only by the individual but also by the company or organization. The turnover rate can be significantly reduced by changing the work structure. Implementing SFA is one effective measure. In this article, we will explain the reasons why salespeople want to quit and eight points to reduce turnover rates. *For more details, you can view the related links. Please feel free to contact us for more information.*

• SFA/Sales Support System