Build a Custom CRM Ep2 || Full App build

Introduction

In this tutorial, we will walk through the process of building a custom Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system using AppSheet, as demonstrated in the second episode of a live series by Camron, a Google Developer Expert. This guide is designed for both beginners and seasoned users, providing you with actionable steps to create a tailored CRM solution for managing sales pipelines, customer relations, and overall business processes.

Step 1: Setting Up Your AppSheet Environment

1. Create an AppSheet Account

   • Visit the AppSheet website and sign up for an account if you haven't already.

2. Start a New Project

   • Once logged in, click on "New App" to begin your CRM project.
   • Choose to start from your data source, which could be Google Sheets, Excel, or another database.

3. Select Your Data Source

   • Connect to the spreadsheet or database that will serve as the foundation for your CRM.

Step 2: Designing Your Data Structure

1. Identify Key Tables

   • Determine the essential tables for your CRM, such as:
     • Customers
     • Sales
     • Products
     • Contacts

2. Create Tables in Your Data Source

   • Set up these tables in your chosen data source with relevant columns. For example:
     • Customers Table: Name, Email, Phone, Address
     • Sales Table: Customer ID, Product ID, Date, Amount

3. Ensure Data Consistency

   • Use appropriate data types for each column (e.g., text for names, date for sales).

Step 3: Building the App Interface

1. Customize Views

   • In AppSheet, create different views for each table to display data effectively.
   • Options include:
     • Deck view for a list of Customers
     • Gallery view for Products

2. Add Navigation

   • Implement a menu for easy navigation between different views of your CRM.

3. Design Forms for Data Entry

   • Create forms for adding new Customers or Sales, ensuring fields are user-friendly.

Step 4: Implementing Functionality

1. Set Up Actions

   • Create actions to allow users to edit or delete records easily.
   • For example, add a "Delete" action on the Customer view.

2. Add Workflows

   • Automate notifications or updates when certain conditions are met (e.g., a new sale is recorded).

3. Incorporate Security Features

   • Configure user permissions to control access to sensitive data within your CRM.

Step 5: Testing Your CRM

1. Preview Your App

   • Use the app preview feature in AppSheet to test functionality and user experience.

2. Gather Feedback

   • Share the app with a small group of users to gather feedback and identify any issues.

3. Make Necessary Adjustments

   • Based on user feedback, refine the app's design and functionality.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you will have created a custom CRM system using AppSheet that can effectively manage your business relationships and sales processes. As you continue to enhance your app, consider exploring additional features such as integrations with other services, advanced reporting tools, and user analytics. Start building and customizing your CRM today to better serve your business needs!