CRM vs. SOAP Software

WHICH SHOULD YOU CHOOSE?

As more equine practitioners strive to run their business as professionally as possible, software has become quite the hot topic.  If you’ve taken a look at software solutions out there, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the options. 

There are many things to consider when choosing the right platform for your business - cloud vs. offline, app vs. desktop, equine based vs. generic, etc.

But before worrying about any of that, you first need to decide if you want CRM software, SOAP software or a 2-in-1 combo.

CRM and SOAP note software serve different purposes in your equine bodywork business.  Let's take a look at their differences so you can decide which is best for you:

What is CRM?

CRM stands for Customer Relationship Management and is a handy software designed to make your life as a business owner a heck of a lot easier.  With CRM, you can ditch paper files and spreadsheets and track all your data in one easy to access place.

Think of CRM as your own personal assistant - right in your pocket.  This useful tool helps improve customer relationships by managing all moving parts of business admin - communications, tracking data and streamlining sales and marketing efforts.

CRM Features

CRM is full of features that help you wrangle up all your client’s data into one easy place:

• Forms

• Emails/ texts

• Documents

• Booking

• Sales history

• Tasks

• Notes

Each industry has its own specific needs - so be sure to check that the CRM you’re using covers your business’s admin needs.  For example, a sales business will require in depth lead tracking and sales pipelines, whereas a hair salon will require customizable online booking options.

CRM Benefits

Something that makes CRM superior to manually tracking data is that it automatically updates to the client’s latest actions.  (That being said, it’s not magic and can’t track what isn’t input, so you still have to use it.)  Manually updating spreadsheets or paper forms becomes outdated the first time you forget to update it.

By having a single place that contains all your client’s information, you’ll be more organized, efficient and better manage your time.  Clients also love the ease of use CRM offers, improving client satisfaction as well!

CRM = organization + accessibility + happy clients

What is SOAP?

SOAP stands for Subjective, Objective, Assessment, Plan and is an innovative software that allows practitioners to easily document patient information, assessments and treatment plans.  With SOAP software, you no longer have to hand write notes and can create them with the click of a button.

SOAP Features

This convenient tech helps you maintain accurate and organized clinical records.  The main structure of SOAP software should include sections for..

• (S) Client feedback/ complaints

• (O) Your initial examination

• (A) Your assessment and therapies performed

• (P) Care strategy moving forward (exercise plans, nutrition, recommendations)

• Templates and illustrations

Most clients want to receive an easy-to-read copy of your findings at the end of their appointment - so a system that easily sends reports to clients is a must!  It’s also essential to have a simple way to send forms to other interested parties - vets, farriers, chiros, and more.

SOAP Benefits

SOAP software allows you to add a whole lot more detail a heck of a lot quicker than handwriting notes.  SOAP notes provide consistent record keeping, which means it’s easier to track progress over time and share the reports with other professionals. Sending digital reports is a great way to wow your clients as well!

SOAP = accuracy + efficiency + impressed clients

Summary

CRM and SOAP software are both essential to running your equine bodywork business. CRM helps you manage business admin and client data while SOAP software helps you document sessions and patient progress.  While each software is different, they both are incredibly valuable to your equine business’ workflow, and having an all-in-one solution, like EquiPro Connect, allows you to manage all aspects of your business’ needs in one easy convenient place. Start your 30-day free trial HERE to see if it's the solution you've been waiting for.