Common CRM Implementation Problems (And How to Fix Them)
Real problems we've seen across 400+ implementations, and proven solutions that work. Learn from others' mistakes so you don't repeat them.
These Aren't Edge Cases
The problems listed here impact the majority of Salesforce implementations. The difference between success and failure is knowing they're coming and having a plan.
Of firms experience at least 3 of these problems during implementation
Average cost to fix problems discovered after go-live (vs. preventing them)
Of implementations are considered "failed" or require major rework within 12 months
Filter Problems
Compliance & Regulatory Gaps
CRM configuration fails to meet SEC Rule 17a-4, FINRA, or state insurance regulations, requiring costly remediation.
Inadequate User Training
Go-live training is too short or too generic, leaving users confused and frustrated, leading to workarounds and errors.
Integration Points Breaking
Third-party integrations (Orion, eMoney, DocuSign) fail unexpectedly, causing data sync errors and workflow interruptions.
Lack of Change Management
No strategy for communicating changes, addressing concerns, or managing resistance, resulting in project failure despite technical success.
Low User Adoption Rates
Users resist the new CRM, continue using spreadsheets, or enter minimal data, resulting in incomplete records and lack of ROI.
Poor Data Quality After Migration
Legacy CRM data migrates with duplicates, incomplete fields, formatting errors, and inconsistent naming conventions.
System Performance Degradation
Salesforce becomes slow after go-live due to poor data model, inefficient workflows, or excessive custom code.
Uncontrolled Scope Creep
Project timelines extend from 12 weeks to 9+ months as stakeholders continuously add "must-have" requirements mid-project.
Unrealistic Timeline & Budget Expectations
Leadership expects 6-week implementations for complex FSC deployments, leading to rushed work, corners cut, and technical debt.
Vendor Lock-In & Hidden Costs
Firms discover unexpected ongoing costs for licenses, consultants, and feature upgrades, making switching prohibitively expensive.
How We Help You Avoid These Problems
Proven Methodologies
Our VALUE framework (Vision, Adaptability, Leverage, User-Centric, Excellence) addresses each of these problems systematically, based on lessons learned from 400+ implementations.
Early Risk Identification
We identify potential problems during the discovery phase—not after go-live. Our assessment process flags 80%+ of issues before they become costly problems.
Continuous Monitoring
We monitor for early warning signs throughout implementation: user feedback, data quality metrics, integration health, and performance benchmarks.
Don't Let These Problems Derail Your Implementation
Schedule a free assessment to identify which of these problems you're at risk for—and get a prevention plan.