Using CRM to Poke Holes in Silos Improving Citizen Service from the Inside Out

Allowing organizations more convenient ways to work together and have a more unified approach across the enterprise.

Everyone agrees that technology such as CRM that puts citizens at the center of everything we do is good idea. So why is it such a challenge? It’s because the roadblocks to success are adaptive challenges. Which are especially difficult during uncertain times.

The organizational structure that is still used in local government today came out of the last industrial revolution. It really hasn’t changed that much since. It’s a system that is aligned to specialize and maximize excellence vertically. Legacy technology has reinforced this. Most procurement rules and laws were designed for legacy systems. Which means local governments almost always still procure and implement technology in the same manner as on premise projects from 20 years ago. Which provides legacy technology and legacy technology models an advantage. This one example of the types of adaptive challenges requires constant review and analysis.

Two Things to Consider With A CRM Initiative

For any organization to consider embarking on a CRM initiative, move forward with the ultimate goal of creating an environment where people help people. People as part of the culture of the organization, as well as the ultimate consumers, the citizens. It’s that simple.

There is one factor that very broadly determines success and that’s the organization’s culture. A culture that promotes change agents and encourages co-creation is going to maximize their CRM return on investment. Having the right culture is so important. It’s what allows for innovation. In local government we take for granted the diversity of positions that’s in every city. Too often we take for granted their unique perspectives. CRM is the tool that can be equalizer for local government employees. It facilitates the best ideas surfacing to serve citizens.

Organizations that use helping people as a lens to reflect on how they’re using or implementing CRM are going to be wildly successful. It keeps the focus on what matters. It also provides for an effective way to address detractors.

Final Thoughts on CRM in Local Government

CRM can become the primary work system for all 311 or non-emergency departments a secondary work system for 911 departments. This creates a common work system maximizing collaboration and the ability to cross train. It can become the enterprise database used in every department. However, for CRM to be successful requires that the culture of local government change. CRM has to be a tool that helps local government employees grow and become the best version of themselves. If the culture isn’t right, CRM is destined to become another technology casualty in the search for the fountain of youth in local government.