What is a CRM?  

A CRM/Customer Relationship Management product is a tool that enables organizations to comprehensively manage “customer” interactions throughout their lifecycle. Within a university ecosystem, the customer often refers to students, alumni, or other key constituent groups. These advanced tools specialize in automation, workflow management, and reporting capabilities.  

What are the centralized options supported by OIT? 

There are two existing CRM options managed by OIT for the CU Denver and CU Anschutz campuses: Slate and Salesforce.   

• Slate offers configured modules for marketing, recruitment, and admissions within the student lifecycle including a centralized application capability and programmatic marketing campaign management. Additional modules exist for student success. Slate is the system of record for central CU Denver graduate and undergraduate recruiting and admissions. 
• The Salesforce environment includes a configuration for marketing, recruitment, and constituent management.  

Key differences include: 

• Slate is designed as an admissions interface, meaning prospective students will access this tool directly to apply for their selected programs and track their application process.  
• Salesforce is a more general CRM, which offers additional opportunities for configuration but less out of the box functionality. 

In addition, there are also two centralized options managed at CU System. The first is referred to as the eComm License, which is an environment primarily used to manage CU constituent outreach to the various CU audiences including current students, faculty, staff, alumni, donors, and friends. The second is called the Integrated Online Services Salesforce and is used to support online program marketing, outreach, and recruitment for online programs at CU Anschutz, CU Denver, and UCCS.  

What are the costs?  

The cost structure varies for each option and customer requirements. Overall, CRMs do require additional administrator support during implementation and for on-going management to facilitate the configuration of the specific CRM platform in alignment with business objectives. The CRM team can discuss license, configuration, and administration costs with you based on your specific needs.  

How do I learn more about what option is right for me?

If you are considering a CRM for your organization’s needs, we recommend reaching out for a consultation by submitting a service desk ticket (see button above called "Request Information") to connect with a product expert.