ソフトブレーン List of Products and Services

SaaS has now become one of the industries with high future potential. General companies that utilize services will likely have increasing interactions with the SaaS industry. The SaaS industry has characteristics, benefits, and job roles that differ from traditional IT companies. Understanding the SaaS industry is beneficial for a smooth implementation. This article will explain the benefits that the SaaS industry can bring and what types of companies and job roles may be relevant from the perspective of customer companies using SaaS. *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

In sales activities, achieving sales targets is the top priority. To do this, it is necessary to manage progress correctly. If progress management is done incorrectly, it could result in a significant burden on the field. We will explain the key points of progress management that will definitely lead to achieving targets. *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 first action that salespeople take to acquire new customers is "making appointments." What does it mean for "making appointments" to be successful? It means that the appointment leads to an increase in the company's sales, ultimately achieving the budget set by the company. This time, we will specifically introduce what preparations should be made for "making appointments" to be successful. Please take a look for reference. *You can view the detailed content of the column through the related links. For more information, feel free to contact us.*

• Technical and Reference Books

"Enhancing customer management" is one of the essential points for achieving sales success. Implementing a customer relationship management system (CRM) is effective for this purpose. CRM offers numerous benefits, such as "centralized management of customers," "streamlining of operations," and "suitable for information sharing within and between departments." By utilizing mobile devices like iPads in addition to computers, it becomes possible to use the system anytime and anywhere. To improve customer satisfaction and increase sales, we will introduce recommended CRM apps that can be used on iPads, along with the benefits of utilizing them. *For more details, you can view the related links. Please feel free to contact us for more information.*

• SFA/Sales Support System

This document focuses on the Key Success Factors (KSF) necessary for achieving Key Goal Indicators (KGI) and Key Performance Indicators (KPI), providing explanations of their definitions, relationships, and appropriate setting methods, as well as how to utilize CRM/SFA tools to aid in setting these indicators. It explains successful cases of appropriate KSF settings and points for selecting CRM/SFA that contribute to performance improvement. Additionally, it includes features and implementation results of our product "e-Sales Manager Remix." [Contents] ■ Definitions and relationships of KGI/KPI and KSF ■ Setting KSF/KPI necessary for achieving KGI ■ Successful cases with appropriate KSF settings ■ [Special Feature] How to utilize CRM/SFA for managing important indicators ■ Points for selecting CRM/SFA that contribute to performance improvement *For more details, please refer to the PDF document or feel free to contact us.

• Technical and Reference Books
• SFA/Sales Support System

This document provides a basic explanation of SFA, a sales support system, along with specific utilization methods and case studies. It explains the necessity and mechanism of SFA, which is an essential tool for sales strategy, as well as its main features and implementation benefits. [Contents] ■ What is SFA (Sales Support System)? ■ The necessity and mechanism of SFA ■ Main features and implementation benefits of SFA ■ Techniques for utilizing SFA to streamline sales activities and case studies ■ Key points for selecting SFA that becomes established in companies Additionally, it includes many techniques and case studies such as "planning appropriate improvement measures through timely information sharing." We encourage you to read it. *Currently available for free. Please download the PDF to view it. Feel free to contact us for more details.

• SFA/Sales Support System

In the manufacturing industry, after-sales services such as maintenance, repairs, and the sale of consumables are often perceived as an ancillary part of the sales department. However, in the fields of durable consumer goods, such as automobiles and home renovations, as well as production goods like construction machinery and transportation equipment, there exists a broad after-market where highly profitable businesses are conducted, which is not widely known. I will explain the importance of the after-market in an era characterized by rapid changes in market conditions and a time when selling goods is said to be difficult. *For more details on the column, please refer to the related links. Feel free to contact us for more information.*

• Technical and Reference Books

The financial industry, which is the foundation of the Japanese economy and plays a leading role, is also facing 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 advanced effects of DX. I will explain the current situation regarding the slow progress of DX due to the unique circumstances of 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, please refer to the related links. Feel free to contact us for more information.

• Technical and Reference Books

Amid calls for work style reform, it is believed that many people in management and executive layers are currently implementing organizational reforms. Despite understanding the necessity of organizational reform and taking action, there are likely many who find that the intended reforms and improvements are not being achieved, resulting in counterproductive effects. Do you know where the challenges lie and what the key points are? In this article, we will break down the existing challenges and key points, providing specific methodologies. *For detailed content of the column, please refer to the related links. For more information, feel free to contact us.*

• Technical and Reference Books

To grow products and businesses, daily sales management is essential. In particular, a convenient method is to create and manage sales sheets using Excel. By understanding the key points necessary for sales management and the advantages and disadvantages of Excel, you won't face difficulties in the future. This article will explain the steps for creating a sales management sheet using Excel, as well as useful functions to use. *For detailed content of the column, you can view it through the related links. For more information, please feel free to contact us.

• Technical and Reference Books

Due to the work style reform, regulations on the upper limits of overtime work have been introduced, and companies will face penalties if they do not comply with these limits. Starting from April 2020, small and medium-sized enterprises have also become subject to these regulations, leading to a review and improvement of management systems, such as reducing unnecessary overtime. However, in cases where improvement measures are delayed or where there was originally a very high amount of overtime, it may be difficult to immediately stay within the limits. If overtime has become a habit or if there is a labor shortage, significant ingenuity will be required to reduce it. Improvements in employee awareness and company systems are essential, as well as the utilization of IT tools. We will introduce recommended improvement methods and tools, so please use them as a reference. *For more detailed content of the column, you can view it through the related links. For more information, please feel free to contact us.

• Technical and Reference Books

Acquiring leads (potential customers) is a strategy aimed at increasing future customers through various sales and marketing activities, along with subsequent customer nurturing and retention. In this article, we will explain methods for lead acquisition, effective approaches, and success stories. *For detailed content of the column, please refer to the related links. For more information, feel free to contact us.*

• Technical and Reference Books

The sales style has shifted from "selling products" to "solution sales," with "listening skills" being prioritized over "sales talk." We are now in an era where it is more important to listen to customers' problems and propose solutions rather than just asserting the product. In this article, we will thoroughly explain the essential technique for solution sales: "listening" skills. We hope that not only salespeople but also sales managers will find this useful for guiding their teams in the field. *For more details on the column, you can view it through the related links. Please feel free to contact us for more information.

• Technical and Reference Books

SaaS refers to cloud services that can be accessed via the internet. In this article, we will clearly explain the meaning and characteristics of SaaS, along with its differences from related terms PaaS and IaaS, as well as representative examples. If you want to deepen your understanding of SaaS and apply it to your business, please use this as a reference. *You can view the detailed content of the column through the related links. For more information, please feel free to contact us.

• Technical and Reference Books

The work style reform-related law has been enacted, and it is particularly required to thoroughly manage overtime work to ensure that it does not exceed the set limits. Since there are penalties for exceeding the regulations, it is necessary to seriously tackle the reduction of overtime; however, many companies may not have properly reviewed their practices. Therefore, we have summarized points and benefits for reducing unnecessary overtime. Please refer to this information and promptly work on reducing unnecessary overtime. *For detailed content of the column, you can view it through the related links. For more information, please feel free to contact us.

• Technical and Reference Books

Are you struggling to insert graphs to create easy-to-understand materials because you don't know how to make them? This article explains how to create Excel graphs. It also introduces design techniques that make it easier for others to understand, so please take a look for reference. *You can view the detailed content of the column through the related links. For more information, please feel free to contact us.

• Technical and Reference Books

To improve sales, which consist of the number of customers, conversion rate, and average transaction value, it is necessary to increase each of these components through expanding new customers and increasing repeat rates. In this article, we will explain specific measures and success stories for improving sales. Please take a moment to read through the related links. *You can view the detailed content of the column through the related links. For more information, please feel free to contact us.*

• Technical and Reference Books

The spread of the novel coronavirus has had a significant impact on business activities and corporate performance. Sticking to pre-corona sales styles increases the likelihood of difficulties in recovering performance, and above all, infections and disasters similar to COVID-19 will continue to occur in the future. Therefore, I will explain sales styles that can lead to performance improvement in the post-corona era. Not only will you avoid a drop in sales during the post-corona period, but you will also learn specific know-how to increase sales, so please take your time to read this carefully. *For more details on the column, you can view it through the related links. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.

• Technical and Reference Books

A sales list is a necessary list for conducting efficient and effective sales activities. Salespeople may be quite familiar with it, but are you aware that the methods for creating and utilizing it effectively are changing? There are various ways to collect lists, and how you utilize the created list can also influence your sales activities. Therefore, this time, we will explain tips for collecting sales lists and tools for creating high-quality lists. *For more details on the column, you can view it through the related links. Please feel free to contact us for more information.*

• Technical and Reference Books

It is important to attempt improvements in business operations to increase performance, but there is no textbook for setting goals or timing for these improvements, so many people may miss the right timing to implement them. However, we should aim to set goals as early as possible and work on improving operations. To increase the probability of achieving goals, it is crucial to establish the company's structure and target figures. Let’s discuss how to achieve these goals. *For more details on the column, please refer to the related links. Feel free to contact us for more information.*

• Technical and Reference Books

Are you considering implementing SFA but wondering how much it will cost? Do you have concerns like 'I can't quite picture what I will get for the money I spend'? There are many products available for SFA, and the price range and the functions that can be used can be somewhat categorized. In this article, we will introduce the cost range of SFA, a brief overview of representative products, and their prices. *You can view the detailed content of the column through the related links. Please feel free to contact us for more information.

• Technical and Reference Books

"Although I manage sales somewhat, I don't have much confidence in it." "First of all, what does effective sales management look like? If it really exists, I want to know." Are you struggling with these thoughts? Sales management is a task that directly impacts a company's profits. If you're going to review it, you want to know the know-how that can definitely yield results and put it into practice. In this article, we will explain the necessary items and reasons for sales management, and then introduce the use of SFA/CRM as a method to conduct it efficiently and effectively. *You can view the detailed content of the column through the related links. For more information, please feel free to contact us.*

• Technical and Reference Books

Sales tools can be broadly categorized into three areas: CRM (Customer Relationship Management), SFA (Sales Force Automation), and MA (Marketing Automation). In this article, we will explain our top 10 recommended sales tools and how to choose them. For more details, please check the related links. *You can view the detailed content of the column through the related links. For more information, please feel free to contact us.*

• Technical and Reference Books

In business, there are various tasks ranging from routine ones to those that require long-term management, as well as tasks at the individual and team levels, regardless of size. A recommended tool for efficiently managing schedules related to such tasks is a ToDo list. Recently, there are many types available, such as memo functions for managing schedules in bullet points and cloud-based options that can be shared among all team members. However, if the ToDo list is used incorrectly, it may lead to inefficiencies in business operations. Therefore, in this article, we will introduce how to effectively utilize a ToDo list to enhance work efficiency, including its advantages and disadvantages. Let’s understand the essence of a ToDo list and use it to improve work practices within the company. *For more details on the column, please refer to the related links. For further inquiries, feel free to contact us.*

• Technical and Reference Books

In any organization, it is said that human resources are composed of 20%, 60%, and 20% in order of productivity. This is known as the "262 Rule." Recently, companies have been implementing measures to improve their sales capabilities, such as the introduction of inside sales in the sales department and the utilization of data through tools. However, a significant challenge in promoting sales DX is the internal education on DX, specifically management. Therefore, this article will explain the "262 Rule," which is useful for solving management challenges, along with how to utilize it for organizational improvement in the sales department. *For more detailed content of the column, please refer to the related links. For further inquiries, feel free to contact us.*

• Technical and Reference Books

Process management refers to the detailed management of outcomes divided into steps leading to the final goal. In this article, we will explain the basics of process management, successful case studies, and common mistakes encountered during implementation. *For detailed content of the column, please refer to the related links. For more information, feel free to contact us.*

• Technical and Reference Books

When it comes to streamlining sales operations, how well data management is conducted becomes a crucial point. In this article, based on information from November 2023, we will introduce 10 free data management apps. We will also introduce CRM/SFA tools that can be integrated with representative data management apps, so please be sure to read until the end. *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
• Other information systems

In managing a business, it is important to formulate a budget. Creating a budget and conducting performance management is essential for clarifying goals and aligning the entire company's direction, enabling efficient activities. However, there are challenges associated with budget formulation. If a budget is set too easily achievable, it is unlikely to lead to improved performance, and if a budget is set that cannot be achieved, it will be ignored. Therefore, I will discuss the importance of budget formulation and key points for properly carrying it out. *For more details on the column, please refer to the related links. Feel free to contact us for more information.*

• SFA/Sales Support System
• Other information systems

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 or is intelligent and knowledgeable. To lead sales activities to success, it is important to aim for skill improvement, create a solid roadmap, and practice it consistently every day. In this article, we will explain the essential abilities for improving sales skills and the importance of a skill map sheet. At the end of the page, we also introduce a free assessment of sales skills. *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
• Other information systems

Sales forecasts are essential for setting sales targets in the sales and marketing department. By creating accurate sales forecasts in a timely manner, it establishes a highly planned management approach. However, do you not think that investing in specialized tools for sales forecasting and having sufficient know-how are necessary for this? 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 check how to create a sales forecast using Excel. *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
• Other information systems

While many may have knowledge of the basics of PDCA, there are likely those who have experienced "results that did not lead to success despite implementation." PDCA is often adopted in sales departments where numerical performance targets are required, but there are still many workplaces lacking knowledge of specific methods. In particular, there are noticeable cases where the understanding of the essential processes of PDCA, such as "verification" and "evaluation," is insufficient. This article will explain the characteristics of PDCA for individuals and for organizations. Additionally, it will introduce "checkpoints that sales managers should be aware of to avoid failure." *For detailed content of the column, please refer to the related links. For more information, feel free to contact us.*

• SFA/Sales Support System
• Other information systems

Are you curious about what work style reform is, its necessity, and the reasons it can improve productivity? Or are you concerned about missing out on methods that other companies are using to enhance efficiency, such as remote work? In fact, many companies are already achieving results by embracing the trend of work style reform. In this article, we will explain the overview and necessity of work style reform, as well as key points on how remote work can boost productivity, so please use this as a catalyst to increase your productivity. *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
• Other information systems

The new normal that has become apparent with the outbreak of the novel coronavirus. If you perceive it merely as a temporary buzzword, it is a dangerous situation. In fact, the new normal has occurred in the past, and it is precisely because the pandemic has served as a catalyst that the term "new normal" has emerged. For businesses, failing to refresh their business models and work styles can lead to a decline in market share and increased risk of bankruptcy. In reality, past new normals have seen the rise of startups and the decline of certain industries and companies. Therefore, this time, we will summarize and explain the current state of the new normal that companies should be aware of. We will also provide detailed explanations of specific actions to take, so please use this as a reference. *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
• Other information systems

While work style reform is being highlighted, many companies and sales departments are likely struggling with the time it takes to create sales reports. Additionally, there may be managers who are unsure how to effectively utilize these sales reports. Therefore, this time, we will provide a detailed explanation of sales reports. *For more details on the column, please refer to the related links. Feel free to contact us for more information.*

• SFA/Sales Support System
• Other information systems

For stable management of a company, it is essential to continuously generate profits. However, if a company lacks abundant resources or superior products and services, it must find ways to differentiate itself from competitors. This is where the importance of formulating a sales strategy for efficient sales activities comes into play. By correctly setting and implementing a sales strategy, a company can achieve its goals and focus on accurate sales activities aimed at expanding revenue. In this article, we will explain the overview of sales strategy, key points for formulation, frameworks, and successful case studies from companies. *For detailed content of the column, please refer to the related links. For more information, feel free to contact us.*

• SFA/Sales Support System
• Other information systems

With many people using social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter, an increasing number of companies are looking to activate communication within their organizations through secure internal social networks and facilitate information sharing more smoothly than ever before. However, we often hear that even when these systems are implemented, they are not fully utilized. Unlike personal social media, why do internal social networks struggle to be effectively used and established? In this article, we will explore the reasons why the implementation of internal social networks often fails and provide detailed insights on how to create a system for effective utilization. *For more details on the column, please refer to the related links. Feel free to contact us for more information.*

• SFA/Sales Support System
• Other information systems

Excel, which is widely used in the sales field, is no longer the best tool for sales management. By utilizing a Sales Force Automation (SFA) system, it is possible not only to improve productivity and prevent dependency on individuals but also to connect to more strategic sales activities. In recent years, services that can be used with low implementation costs and monthly fees have become mainstream, lowering the barriers to adopting sales management systems. This article will compare the benefits of systematizing sales management, key points for utilization, and the features of representative services. If you are considering systematizing your sales management, please read on. *For detailed content of the column, you can view it through the related links. For more information, feel free to contact us.*

• SFA/Sales Support System
• Other information systems

The "PDCA" cycle, often discussed as a way to advance business operations. Are you effectively managing this cycle? While there are companies that successfully implement PDCA and achieve thorough quality management, there are also many that struggle to establish it within their operations. Why does the PDCA cycle not run smoothly? The reasons for this are somewhat predetermined, and improvements are certainly possible. In this article, we will briefly revisit the fundamental concepts of PDCA while explaining the framework to identify the causes and solutions for why PDCA cannot be effectively established in business operations. *For more details on the column, please refer to the related links. Feel free to contact us for more information.*

• SFA/Sales Support System
• Other information systems

"Despite approaching negotiations with enthusiasm, we couldn't secure the order." "Even though things were progressing smoothly, we lost the deal halfway through the negotiations." Many sales representatives may have similar concerns. Sales is not just a profession for those who are articulate; it requires the acquisition of various communication skills and techniques to lead to a successful contract. In this article, we will explain not only the communication skills required in sales but also the essential communication management necessary for smooth negotiation progress. *For more details on the column, please refer to the related links. Feel free to contact us for more information.*

• SFA/Sales Support System
• Other information systems

Knowledge Suite is an all-in-one business tool that consolidates functions to support sales activities, including SFA, CRM, groupware, business card management, email distribution, and attendance management. By utilizing it effectively, the efficiency of sales operations can be improved, and an increase in overall organizational productivity can be expected. This article will explain the features and benefits of Knowledge Suite, as well as case studies of its implementation. *For detailed content of the column, please refer to the related links. For more information, feel free to contact us.*

• SFA/Sales Support System

A BI (business intelligence) system, also known as a BI tool, is a framework for extracting and integrating various data to provide information tailored to the specific needs of users. It can be useful for management decision-making, or it can be used in a more concrete way, such as helping sales representatives identify which customers to approach at any given time. While there are various ways to utilize a BI system, if it is implemented or used incorrectly, it may not deliver the expected results. In this article, we will explain the key points to consider when implementing a BI system, using examples of failures in BI system implementation as a reference. *For more detailed information, please refer to the related links. Feel free to contact us for further inquiries.*

• SFA/Sales Support System
• Other information systems

Due to the rapidly changing environment of society, companies are constantly required to seek improvement and are compelled to adapt. Regardless of industry or size, it is important for companies to always be aware of this and to continue their efforts. What exactly does business improvement entail in practice? What is the significance of setting objectives in business improvement? Here, we will explain in detail about business improvement and the importance of clarifying objectives in order to carry out business improvement effectively. *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
• Other information systems

To achieve performance goals as a salesperson, it is important to be aware of deadlines and schedules, and to properly understand and manage your schedule to meet them. Such scheduling management skills are essential for performing at a high level, regardless of the job type. Let's look at some key points to help develop your subordinates' scheduling management skills, which are effective for achieving high results as a team. *For more details on the column, please refer to the related link. Feel free to contact us for more information.*

• SFA/Sales Support System
• Other information systems

In general, companies set goals at the beginning of the period and work on various measures to achieve those plans. An important aspect of achieving goals is "budget vs. actual management," which allows for constant monitoring of the initial plans and actual results. Not only at the management level of the company, but also each department and individual sets goals and employs management techniques to assess their progress as needed, although there are cases where this does not go smoothly. In this article, we will clearly explain what budget vs. actual management is, and further consider the realities of why it may not be successful and potential solutions to those issues. *For detailed content of the column, please refer to the related links. For more information, feel free to contact us.*

• SFA/Sales Support System
• Other information systems

A sales strategy refers to the strategy for determining "how to deliver the value of your company's products or services to customers." In order to succeed in today's highly competitive environment, it is important to assess market and customer needs and to strategically build an approach. This article introduces templates that can help in formulating a sales strategy, as well as explaining specific planning steps and frameworks that should be utilized. If you are struggling with "not knowing how to develop a sales strategy" or "your organization's performance is not improving," please use this as a reference. *For more details on the column, you can view it through the related links. Feel free to contact us for more information.

• Other information systems
• SFA/Sales Support System