B2B sales cycles can be lengthy and complex, often involving multiple stakeholders and detailed customization and pricing structures.
Finding ways to streamline the sales cycle is a key priority for manufacturers of custom products. This is where CPQ solutions are an effective tool for developing a streamlined B2B sales process. CPQ software integrates with CRM and ERP systems to provide a seamless flow of information across different stages of the sales cycle. It guides sales representatives through the configuration of products and services, applies pricing rules, and automatically generates accurate quotes.
Key Benefits of Implementing CPQ in the B2B Sales Cycle
Quicker Quote Generation
Traditional quoting methods often involve multiple back-and-forth communications to confirm product configurations and pricing, which can slow down the process considerably. With CPQ, sales reps can configure products, apply discounts, and generate quotes in real time. This not only shortens the sales cycle but also enhances the customer experience by providing prompt responses.
Improved Accuracy
Manual quote generation is open to errors, from incorrect pricing to misconfigured products. Errors can lead to customer dissatisfaction and lost sales. CPQ systems reduce these risks by ensuring that all configurations are valid and that pricing rules are consistently applied. This helps to build trust with customers and reduces the risk of costly mistakes.
Streamlined Approval Process
In many B2B sales environments, quotes require approval from various stakeholders before they can be sent to the customer. CPQ solutions often come with built-in approval workflows that streamline this process. Sales reps can submit quotes for approval within the system, and managers can review and approve them quickly, often with automated notifications and reminders to keep things moving smoothly.
Enhanced Product Configuration
B2B products can be highly complex, with numerous options, features, and customizations. CPQ systems provide guided selling tools that help sales reps configure products correctly, ensuring that all customer requirements are met. This not only improves the accuracy of the quotes but also enhances the ability to upsell and cross-sell.
Better Pricing Management
Pricing in B2B custom sales can be very detailed, with factors such as volume discounts, customer-specific pricing, and promotional offers. CPQ tools use pricing rules and ensure that they are applied consistently. This helps avoid pricing miscalculations and ensures that sales reps can quickly provide accurate and competitive pricing to customers.
Increased Sales Productivity
By automating many of the manual tasks involved in the quote generation process, CPQ enables sales reps to focus more on selling and less on administrative work. This increased productivity can lead to more sales opportunities and higher revenue.
Optimize Your Sales Cycle with A DriveWorks CPQ Solution
Introduction to Creating a CPQ Solution Using DriveWorks
DriveWorks Pro combines powerful SOLIDWORKS® part, assembly, and drawing automation with engaging 3D CPQ sales configurator features to enable manufacturers to implement a successful digital selling strategy, work smarter, reduce errors, and exceed customer expectations.
In this free webinar, our product experts will share their knowledge of Creating a CPQ Solution Using DriveWorks. Learn how to build a CPQ solution with DriveWorks to optimize your sales cycle and win more business.