Q. I want a 'cloud' solution which is hosted on a server I control

I am interested in a CRM that allows me to also have a document store with files linked to contacts, plus files not linked to contacts (e.g. a consulting/sales resources area), hosted on our server in a datacenter, and accessible via browser with a security model (i.e. some users cannot see/or download files in directories not assigned to them). There would initially be 4 users in geographically diverse areas, growing to 10 over the next year. I basically want a 'cloud' solution which is hosted on a server I control.

Can your product do this?

A. Yes, CRM-Express Live is a cloud-based solution that can be installed on a server under your control. Access is via a browser on your computer, notebook, pad or mobile phone. Files can be linked to contacts by uploading the files to the specific contacts. By default users control the contacts they create and are able to upload files to the contacts under their control.  Access can be granted by an Administrator to a user to create, modify or delete contacts etc.

Q. Can I install CRM-Express Live on my home-based computer ?

A. Yes, CRM-Express Live can only be installed on a Windows Server Operating System running IIS5 or later. If your home-based computer runs Windows 2000, 2003 or 2008 Server (any edition), then the answer is Yes otherwise No.

Q. Can I install CRM-Express Live on my network server at my business and access it on my network ?

A. Yes, CRM-Express Live can be installed on a network server and accessed on a network.

• Any user accessing it over the network must use a device (computer or otherwise) capable of accessing the network and using a browser.
• Connecting over a network, the user browses to an url e.g. http://[ipaddress] where [ipaddress] should be replaced by the fixed ip address of the CRM-Express Live installation, something like http://192.168.0.20. You can use the basic product for this as  it comes with a 5-user license.
• Note that if you want access over the internet, it is better to install it on a server at your ISP. (See next question)

Q. Can I install CRM-Express Live on a computer at my ISP ?

A. Yes. There are a few requirements. The server must run a Windows Server Operating System. Any of Windows 2000, 2003 or 2008 (32 or 64 bit) will do. The server (or the part of the server that you are using) must be under your control. That means that you must have

• a dedicated server (starting from +- $60 per month  from various ISP's on the internet) (or)
• a virtual dedicated server (starting around $18.17 per month) from various ISP's on the internet. (also known as VPS or Virtual Private Server)
  • Mochahost.com $18.17
  • Gogaddy.com $ 29.99
  • 1&1.com $ 29.00
• CRM-Express Live cannot be run on the normal shared $5 per site  except if the ISP installs it on the server and gives you access to it.

Q. Can I access CRM-Express from my iPad if CRM-Express Live is installed on a computer at my ISP

A. Yes. CRM-Express Live can be accessed from anywhere with any device (computer, laptop, pad, phone) that is capable of browsing.

Q. Can I sync with CRM-Express Live from my iPad.

A. No. CRM-Express Live is accessed in real-time only which means you have to log in to the server and updates are immediately visible from wherever you are accessing it. You can browse and login using your iPad.

Q. Can I access CRM-Express from my iPhone if CRM-Express Live is installed on a computer at my ISP

A. Yes. CRM-Express Live can be accessed from anywhere with any device (computer, laptop, pad, phone) that is capable of browsing. The mobile interface of CRM-Express Live will automatically detect the device you are using and switch to the appropriate interface.

Q. Is it true that I can use CRM-Express Live to host my friends' businesses and supply CRM services to my friends or other companies or individuals?

A. Yes. The basic version of CRM-Express Live costs $100 which includes a 2 user pack (A total price of $50 per user once-off).  You can host any number of companies or users. Note however that you have to make provision for the hardware yourself.