CRM Software Pricing Comparison: A Comprehensive Guide to Navigating Costs and Options

In the realm of digital business tools, CRM software has emerged as a cornerstone for enhancing customer relationships and driving growth. As companies seek to optimize their operations, understanding the pricing of CRM software becomes paramount. This guide serves as a beacon for businesses striving to decipher the complexities of CRM software pricing, exploring the elements that influence costs and the implications for strategic decision-making.

With a myriad of pricing models available, businesses are often faced with the challenge of selecting a structure that aligns with their operational needs and financial constraints. From subscription-based models to perpetual licenses, each option presents unique advantages and potential drawbacks.

This guide will illuminate these paths, providing a detailed exploration of the factors that shape CRM software pricing and offering insights into making informed investment choices.

Introduction to CRM Software Pricing

Understanding the pricing structure of Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software is crucial for businesses, as it directly influences budget allocation and strategic planning. With the wide variety of CRM solutions available, pricing can vary significantly, impacting the decision-making process of businesses seeking to implement these systems.CRM software costs are influenced by several critical factors, including the number of users, features offered, and deployment type.

Additionally, pricing models such as subscription-based fees or one-time purchases can affect overall expenses. Understanding these elements is essential for businesses to align their CRM investments with strategic objectives while ensuring cost-effectiveness.

Significance of Understanding CRM Software Pricing

The importance of grasping CRM software pricing lies in its ability to guide businesses in selecting a solution that meets their needs without overextending financial resources. Strategic investment in CRM systems can enhance customer relationships, improve sales processes, and streamline operations.

• Cost Efficiency: By understanding pricing, businesses can choose CRM solutions that fit their budget, preventing overspending and optimizing returns on investment.
• Feature Selection: Knowledge of pricing enables businesses to prioritize necessary features, avoiding additional costs for unnecessary functionalities.
• Vendor Comparison: Evaluating different pricing plans helps businesses compare vendors effectively, ensuring they receive the best value for their investment.

Factors Influencing CRM Costs

Several factors contribute to the overall cost of CRM software, and businesses must consider these when selecting a suitable solution.

• Number of Users:The primary cost driver in most CRM solutions is the number of users. As user numbers increase, so do the costs, either through tiered pricing or per-user fees.
• Deployment Model:Cloud-based solutions typically involve subscription fees, whereas on-premise systems might require higher upfront costs for licenses and infrastructure setup.
• Customization and Integration:Customizing CRM solutions to adapt to specific business processes or integrating with existing systems can incur additional costs.
• Support and Maintenance:Comprehensive support packages, including regular maintenance and updates, may add to the overall expenditure.

Impact of Pricing on Business Decisions

The pricing of CRM software has a profound impact on business decisions, influencing the scope and scale of CRM implementation.

• Budget Allocation:Pricing affects how businesses allocate their technology budgets, with potential trade-offs between CRM and other critical investments.
• Scalability:Businesses need to consider whether the pricing model allows for scalability as they expand, ensuring that future growth does not lead to unsustainable cost increases.
• Return on Investment:The perceived value derived from CRM software compared to its cost determines the potential return on investment, influencing long-term financial planning.

“Choosing the right CRM solution involves balancing the cost with the expected benefits, ensuring that the investment supports business growth and customer satisfaction.”

Types of CRM Pricing Models

Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software pricing models are critical considerations for businesses aiming to optimize their customer interactions while managing costs. Understanding these models aids in selecting an appropriate CRM solution that aligns with the financial strategy and operational needs of a business.

This section provides an overview of the common CRM pricing models, highlighting their advantages, disadvantages, and examples.CRM software pricing models generally fall into a few categories, each with its unique characteristics and implications for businesses. Evaluating these models involves considering factors such as initial investment, ongoing costs, scalability, and suitability for business growth.

Subscription-Based Pricing Model

The subscription-based pricing model is one of the most prevalent in the CRM industry. This model charges customers a recurring fee, typically monthly or annually, in exchange for access to the software. It is commonly used by cloud-based CRM providers.

• Advantages:
  • Lower initial costs compared to perpetual licenses.
  • Flexibility to scale up or down based on business needs.
  • Regular updates and technical support included.
• Disadvantages:
  • Ongoing costs can add up over time.
  • Dependence on the vendor for continued accessibility and updates.

Software	Pricing	Example Providers
Cloud-Based CRM	Monthly/Annual Subscription	Salesforce, HubSpot CRM

Perpetual License Pricing Model

Under the perpetual license model, businesses pay a one-time fee to purchase the software, granting them indefinite access to the CRM system. This model is often associated with on-premises deployments.

• Advantages:
  • One-time cost with long-term ownership.
  • No ongoing subscription fees.
  • Greater control over data and customization options.
• Disadvantages:
  • High upfront costs.
  • Additional costs for updates, maintenance, and support.
  • Potential obsolescence without regular updates.

Software	Pricing	Example Providers
On-Premises CRM	One-Time Purchase	Microsoft Dynamics 365, SAP CRM

Freemium Pricing Model

The freemium model offers a basic version of the CRM software at no cost, with the option to upgrade to premium features for a fee. This model is designed to attract users with its free offering while encouraging them to pay for enhanced functionality.

• Advantages:
  • Free access to basic functionalities.
  • Incentive to upgrade based on user experience.
  • Low risk for initial adoption.
• Disadvantages:
  • Limited features in the free version.
  • Potentially higher overall cost if premium features are needed.

Software	Pricing	Example Providers
Basic CRM	Free with Paid Upgrades	Zoho CRM, Freshsales

Usage-Based Pricing Model

The usage-based pricing model, also known as pay-as-you-go, charges businesses based on their actual usage of the CRM software. This model is particularly attractive for businesses with fluctuating customer management needs.

• Advantages:
  • Cost efficiency for variable usage patterns.
  • Alignment of cost with business growth.
• Disadvantages:
  • Cost unpredictability for rapidly growing businesses.
  • Potential for increased expenses during peak usage times.

Software	Pricing	Example Providers
Flexible CRM	Usage-Based Rates	Amazon Connect, Twilio Flex

Key Features Affecting CRM Pricing

In the landscape of Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software, pricing structures are often as varied as the functionalities they offer. Understanding the features that drive these pricing strategies is crucial for businesses aiming to choose the most cost-effective solution. While some features are fundamental across all CRM systems, others are advanced and directly impact the subscription costs.

These additional capabilities can significantly enhance business operations and deliver more value, albeit for a higher price.Certain features are universally present in CRM solutions, serving as the backbone of customer interaction management. However, the inclusion of advanced features caters to specific business needs and often leads to an uptick in pricing.

These features not only provide added functionality but also require more resources and development efforts, which is reflected in the cost.

Core Features Influencing CRM Pricing

Core features in CRM platforms are foundational, predominantly found in entry-level packages. These features ensure basic customer management capabilities are met, which include contact management, lead tracking, and basic reporting functions. Despite being standard, they establish the essential framework for any CRM tool and influence the baseline pricing of the software.

• Contact Management:This feature allows businesses to store and manage customer information, interaction history, and communication preferences.
• Lead and Opportunity Tracking:Fundamental to sales processes, this involves monitoring potential customer interactions and sales opportunities.
• Task and Activity Management:Enables the organization of tasks and activities related to customer interactions, ensuring efficient follow-ups.
• Basic Reporting and Analytics:Provides fundamental insights and performance metrics, allowing businesses to evaluate their CRM effectiveness.

Advanced Features and Their Cost Implications

Advanced CRM features are typically reserved for higher-tier plans and are designed to cater to complex business requirements, offering greater customization and automation capabilities. These features enhance operational efficiency and provide a competitive edge, justifying their impact on pricing.

• Automation Tools:Automating tasks such as email campaigns, data entry, and workflow processes saves time and reduces the potential for human error.
• Advanced Analytics and Reporting:Offers deeper insights with advanced data visualization tools, predictive analytics, and custom reporting options.
• Integration Capabilities:Seamless integration with other business tools such as ERP systems, social media platforms, and third-party applications.
• Customization and Scalability:Allows businesses to tailor the CRM system to their specific needs, ensuring scalability as the business grows.
• Enhanced Security Features:Includes advanced data protection mechanisms, compliance with industry regulations, and user access controls.
• Multichannel Communication:Centralizes customer interactions across various channels such as email, social media, and chat platforms.

Features Commonly Included in Higher-Tier Plans

Higher-tier CRM plans often come with a suite of sophisticated features that are not available in basic packages. These features are engineered to provide comprehensive support for large organizations with complex needs.

• AI-Powered Insights:Machine learning algorithms provide actionable insights and automate decision-making processes.
• Customer Journey Mapping:Visualizes the entire customer interaction lifecycle, aiding in the strategic planning of marketing and sales initiatives.
• Omni-Channel Marketing Automation:Facilitates cohesive marketing strategies across multiple channels, ensuring consistent messaging and brand presence.
• Advanced Customization Options:Offers extensive customization abilities for workflows, user interfaces, and reporting formats.
• Priority Customer Support:Access to dedicated support teams and faster response times for technical issues.
• Enhanced Data Storage and Management:Increased data storage options and enhanced data management capabilities to handle large volumes of customer data.

Hidden Costs in CRM Software

When evaluating CRM software, it’s crucial to consider not only the stated prices but also the potential hidden costs that may arise throughout the usage of the software. These hidden costs can significantly impact the total cost of ownership and affect the decision-making process for businesses.

Understanding these costs is essential for making an informed choice.Hidden costs can appear in various forms, often unexpected, and can include fees for setup, training, customization, and more. These elements are sometimes overlooked in the initial pricing but can accumulate over time, leading to an underestimation of the total expenses associated with CRM software deployment.

Examples of Hidden Costs in CRM Software

Businesses should be aware of these hidden costs to better budget and plan their CRM implementation effectively. Here’s a detailed look at some common hidden costs:

• Setup Fees:Many CRM vendors charge an initial setup fee, which covers the cost of software installation and basic configuration.
• Training Costs:Training for staff on how to use the new CRM system can incur additional costs, especially if personalized training sessions are required.
• Customization Fees:Tailoring the CRM to meet specific business needs may involve customization fees, which can vary depending on the complexity of the changes.
• Integration Costs:Aligning the CRM with existing systems and applications can require additional resources and costs.
• Support and Maintenance:Post-deployment support and regular maintenance fees are often necessary to ensure smooth operation and can add to ongoing expenses.

Comparison of Hidden Costs Across CRM Vendors

Understanding potential hidden costs across different CRM vendors can provide better insights and comparisons. The table below Artikels some typical hidden costs that may be associated with several popular CRM vendors:

CRM Vendor	Setup Fee	Training Cost	Customization Fee	Integration Cost	Support/Maintenance
Vendor A	$500	$150/user	$250/hour	$200/system	$100/month
Vendor B	$300	$200/user	$300/hour	$150/system	$50/month
Vendor C	$700	$100/user	$200/hour	$300/system	$120/month

“Understanding the full scope of CRM pricing, including hidden costs, is crucial for making informed decisions and ensuring budget alignment with business goals.”

Cost-Benefit Analysis of CRM Investment

Investing in Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software is a strategic decision that can significantly influence the operational efficiency and profitability of a business. Conducting a cost-benefit analysis is essential to ascertain whether the investment will generate a favorable return. This involves assessing the costs associated with the CRM investment against the anticipated benefits, which include increased revenue through enhanced customer engagement, improved data management, and streamlined business processes.A thorough understanding of how to perform a cost-benefit analysis and calculate the potential return on investment (ROI) is critical for making informed decisions.

Additionally, examining case studies of successful CRM implementations can provide valuable insights and benchmarks for businesses considering similar investments.

Conducting Cost-Benefit Analysis for CRM Investment

A structured approach to cost-benefit analysis involves identifying and quantifying all costs and benefits associated with the CRM system over a defined period. The steps include:

• Identifying all direct and indirect costs: Consider licensing fees, implementation costs, training, maintenance, and potential downtime during transition.
• Estimating benefits: Determine potential improvements in sales, customer retention, and operational efficiency. This can include increased sales volume, reduced customer churn, and lowered operational costs.
• Comparing costs and benefits: Calculate the net present value (NPV) of expected benefits minus costs. A positive NPV indicates a potentially worthwhile investment.

By systematically evaluating these factors, businesses can make more informed decisions regarding their CRM investments.

Calculating ROI from CRM Software

Calculating the ROI of a CRM system involves measuring the financial gain realized from the investment relative to its cost. The formula used is:

ROI = (Net Benefits of CRM

Cost of CRM) / Cost of CRM x 100

The following steps can help in calculating the ROI:

• Determine the net benefits: This involves subtracting the total CRM costs from the total benefits realized.
• Calculate the ROI percentage: This provides a percentage value to evaluate the efficiency of the investment.
• Set realistic timeframes for analysis: ROI should be assessed over a period that reflects the CRM’s impact, commonly ranging from one to three years.

Accurate calculation of ROI assists businesses in understanding the financial implications of their CRM investments and helps justify the expenditure.

Case Studies Demonstrating Successful CRM Investments

Examining real-world examples of successful CRM implementations can offer practical insights into the potential benefits and challenges of such investments. Noteworthy case studies include:

• XYZ Corporation Case Study:By implementing a CRM system, XYZ Corporation saw a 25% increase in customer retention within the first year, translating into a significant revenue boost.
• ABC Logistics:ABC Logistics reduced its customer acquisition costs by 15% after leveraging advanced CRM features for targeted marketing campaigns, resulting in a measurable increase in market share.
• LMN Retail:Through CRM-driven insights, LMN Retail optimized its inventory management, leading to a 20% reduction in excess stock and improved cash flow.

These case studies exemplify how strategic CRM investments can yield substantial returns and provide a framework for other businesses aiming to replicate similar success.

Industry-Specific CRM Pricing Considerations

Industry-specific CRM pricing considerations are essential to understand, as different sectors have unique requirements that influence both the features needed and the overall cost. Various industries have specific workflows, compliance needs, customer interaction models, and data management requirements that necessitate tailored CRM solutions.

These distinctions often lead to variations in CRM pricing structures, reflecting the additional value provided by industry-specific features.Industries such as healthcare, finance, retail, and manufacturing each have distinct CRM needs. In healthcare, CRM systems may need to integrate with electronic health records (EHR) and incorporate strict compliance features for data protection.

In contrast, retail might prioritize customer engagement and loyalty program management.

Examples of Industry-Specific CRM Features Affecting Pricing

Certain features are particularly relevant to specific industries and can significantly affect CRM pricing. Understanding these can help businesses make informed purchasing decisions.

• Healthcare:CRMs in healthcare often require integration with EHR systems, patient data management, and compliance with regulations like HIPAA. These features add to the complexity and cost.
• Finance:CRM solutions for finance need features like secure data handling, regulatory compliance (e.g., with GDPR), and advanced analytics for customer insights, which can increase costs.
• Retail:For retail, CRM systems that offer robust customer profiling, purchase history tracking, and omni-channel communication tools are vital. These features are crucial for personalizing customer interaction and can affect the pricing structure.
• Manufacturing:CRMs for manufacturing might include supply chain management integration, production scheduling, and vendor management features, which can drive up the price due to their complexity.

Pricing Differences in Various Industries

Pricing differences in CRM systems across different industries can be substantial. The table below highlights how CRM costs can vary based on industry-specific needs and features.

Industry	Typical CRM Features	Average Cost Range (Per User/Month)
Healthcare	Integration with EHR, compliance features	$50 $150
Finance	Secure data management, compliance tools, analytics	$60 $200
Retail	Customer profiling, omni-channel communication	$40 $100
Manufacturing	Supply chain management, vendor management	$70 $180

Understanding these pricing variations can help organizations choose the right CRM solution that meets their specific industry requirements without overextending their budgets. Each feature that aligns closely with industry demands not only adds value but also influences the overall pricing of the CRM solution.

Free vs. Paid CRM Solutions

The choice between free and paid CRM solutions can have significant implications for a business’s operations and financial planning. While free CRM solutions can be an attractive option for startups and small businesses with limited budgets, paid solutions often offer more robust features and support, potentially leading to better long-term outcomes.

This section explores the benefits and limitations of both options and provides guidance on scenarios where a free CRM might suffice. Additionally, we’ll detail the transition process from free to paid CRM solutions, ensuring businesses make informed decisions that align with their growth trajectories.Free CRM solutions often appeal to businesses due to their zero cost, making them an excellent entry point for exploring CRM functionalities without financial commitment.

However, they typically come with limitations that could affect their utility for larger or more complex operations.

Benefits and Limitations of Free CRM Solutions

Free CRM solutions offer specific advantages and constraints, which should be carefully considered based on organizational needs and growth expectations.

• Cost Efficiency:Free CRMs are ideal for startups or small businesses that need to manage customer relationships without significant financial investment. They allow businesses to allocate funds to other critical areas while still maintaining some level of customer management.
• Basic Features:Free CRMs often include essential features like contact management, lead tracking, and basic reporting, which are sufficient for companies with straightforward CRM needs.
• Limited Scalability and Customization:These solutions may lack advanced features such as automation, analytics, and integration with other business tools, which can limit their scalability as business needs grow.
• Support Constraints:Free CRMs usually come with limited customer support options, which can pose challenges if technical issues arise or if users require assistance in maximizing the CRM’s capabilities.

Scenarios Where Free CRM Might Be Sufficient

Free CRM solutions are not a one-size-fits-all option, but certain business scenarios can benefit from them without the need for immediate upgrades.

• Startups and Micro-Businesses:For small-scale operations with a handful of customers and straightforward processes, free CRMs can provide the necessary tools to track customer interactions and manage sales pipelines effectively.
• Non-Profit Organizations:Organizations with limited funding might find free CRM solutions adequate for managing donor relationships, event planning, and volunteer management.
• Trial and Learning Phase:Businesses in the early stages of CRM adoption can use free solutions to test out CRM strategies and educate their teams before committing to a paid service.

Transitioning from Free to Paid CRM Solutions

As businesses grow, their CRM needs often evolve beyond the capabilities of free solutions. Transitioning to a paid CRM requires careful planning to ensure continuity and data integrity.The transition process involves:

1. Assessment of Needs:Before transitioning, businesses should evaluate their current CRM usage and identify features and capabilities that are lacking or needed for future growth.
2. Data Migration:It’s crucial to ensure that customer data is accurately migrated from the free CRM to the paid solution. This process may involve exporting data in compatible formats or using third-party tools to facilitate the transfer.
3. Training and Support:Transitioning to a paid CRM often involves new features and tools that staff need to learn. Using the available onboarding support from the CRM vendor can ease this process significantly.
4. Monitoring and Optimization:Post-transition, businesses should regularly review CRM usage and optimize processes to fully leverage the new solution’s capabilities, ensuring the investment delivers the expected return on investment.

“The transition from free to paid CRM should not merely be about increased costs, but rather about leveraging enhanced capabilities and support to drive business growth and efficiency.”

Ultimately, the decision between free and paid CRM solutions should align with a company’s specific needs, goals, and budget constraints. By understanding the trade-offs and planning for potential transitions, businesses can effectively manage their customer relationships and drive success.

Tips for Negotiating CRM Pricing

Understanding how to negotiate CRM pricing effectively can lead to significant cost savings and better service terms. This involves strategic communication with vendors, a thorough understanding of your organization’s needs, and leveraging trial periods and demos for optimal assessment. Here, we present a detailed guide to help navigate these negotiations effectively.

Strategies for Better Deal Negotiations

Approaching CRM pricing negotiations with a strategic mindset can make a substantial difference in the final deal. Here are some key strategies:

• Conduct thorough research on market prices and the pricing models of different vendors. This gives you a benchmark and leverage during negotiations.
• Highlight your business’s unique requirements and how the CRM solution meets these needs, potentially leading vendors to offer more tailored pricing options.
• Explore volume discounts if your organization plans to purchase multiple licenses or modules, as many vendors offer scaled pricing.
• Consider negotiating for additional features or services at no extra cost rather than just focusing on the price.
• Be aware of the vendor’s fiscal year-end, as they might be willing to offer discounts to meet sales targets.

Questions for Vendors to Ensure Price Transparency

Asking the right questions is essential to uncovering any hidden costs and ensuring transparency in pricing. Here are examples of effective questions:

• What are the full costs associated with the CRM, including setup, maintenance, and any additional fees?
• Are there any tiered pricing structures, and what do they include?
• Is there a difference in pricing for cloud-based versus on-premises solutions?
• Can you provide case studies or examples of similar companies and their pricing structures?
• What is the cost implication of scaling up or down in terms of user licenses or features?
• Are there any promotional offers or discounts currently available?

Importance of Trial Periods and Demos in Pricing Negotiations

Trial periods and demos offer invaluable insights into how a CRM system meets specific business needs. They play a crucial role in assessing the value for money before finalizing a deal.

“Trial periods provide a risk-free opportunity to evaluate the CRM’s effectiveness and user-friendliness, while demos showcase the system’s capabilities in real-time.”

During a trial period, ensure that all involved team members use the CRM to its fullest potential, documenting any issues or limitations experienced. This firsthand experience is vital for negotiating aspects such as feature access, user training, and support services, which can affect the overall cost.In conclusion, approaching CRM pricing with a strategic, informed mindset and utilizing trial periods effectively can empower businesses to secure better terms and pricing in their CRM deals.

Future Trends in CRM Pricing

As the business landscape continues to evolve, Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software is undergoing substantial innovations, influencing pricing strategies across the board. Emerging technologies and shifting consumer expectations are pivotal in shaping future CRM pricing models. This section delves into the emerging trends and potential shifts in CRM pricing driven by technological advancements such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and automation.

Emerging Trends in CRM Pricing Models

The landscape of CRM pricing models is continuously transforming, influenced by technological advancements and evolving business needs. Companies are increasingly opting for more flexible and scalable pricing structures. This has led to the emergence of several key trends:

• Usage-Based Pricing:Moving away from traditional subscription models, many CRM providers are adopting usage-based pricing, allowing businesses to pay according to the number of active users or the volume of data processed. This model offers greater flexibility and scalability for growing businesses.

• Value-Based Pricing:This model sets prices based on the perceived value that the CRM software provides to the business, rather than a fixed cost. Such an approach aligns pricing with business outcomes and customer satisfaction.
• Hybrid Pricing Models:Combining elements of subscription and usage-based pricing, hybrid models provide a base level of services with the option to pay for additional features or usage as needed. This approach caters to diverse business requirements and budgets.

The Influence of AI and Automation on CRM Pricing

Artificial Intelligence and automation are significantly transforming the CRM industry, with profound implications for pricing strategies. AI and automation can enhance CRM systems by offering advanced analytics, personalized customer interactions, and improved decision-making processes, which in turn, influences pricing.

• Enhanced Functionality:AI-powered CRMs offer features such as predictive analytics, automated workflows, and personalized customer experiences, which can command higher pricing tiers due to the added value they provide.
• Cost Efficiency:Automation reduces the need for manual data entry and routine tasks, potentially lowering operational costs for CRM providers. These savings might be reflected in more competitive pricing for end-users.
• Tiered AI Features:Some CRM vendors may choose to offer AI functionalities as premium add-ons, allowing businesses to select and pay for advanced features according to their needs and budget.

Evolution of CRM Software Costs

The cost structure of CRM software is evolving in response to dynamic market demands and technological advancements. Understanding these shifts is crucial for businesses planning their CRM investments.

“The evolution of CRM software costs is closely tied to the integration of technology and market competitiveness.”

• Cloud-Based Solutions:The shift towards cloud-based CRM solutions has made it easier for companies to adopt and scale CRM systems, often at a lower cost compared to on-premises alternatives.
• Increased Competition:With a growing number of CRM providers, competition is driving prices down, making CRM solutions more accessible to small and medium-sized enterprises.
• Focus on Industry-Specific Solutions:Vendors are developing tailored CRM solutions for specific industries, offering customized features and pricing that reflect industry-specific needs and budget constraints.

Closing Summary

In conclusion, navigating the landscape of CRM software pricing requires a keen understanding of both the visible and hidden costs involved. By evaluating different pricing models, exploring industry-specific needs, and considering future trends, businesses can position themselves to make informed decisions that support their strategic objectives.

Whether opting for free solutions or negotiating paid options, a comprehensive approach to CRM software pricing can unlock significant value, ensuring that investments translate into tangible business outcomes.

Expert Answers

What are the common CRM pricing models?

Common CRM pricing models include subscription-based, perpetual license, and freemium models, each with distinct features and cost structures.

How do hidden costs impact CRM pricing?

Hidden costs can include setup fees, training expenses, and customization charges, which can significantly impact the overall investment in CRM software.

Why is a cost-benefit analysis important for CRM investment?

A cost-benefit analysis helps businesses evaluate the potential return on investment from CRM software, ensuring that the benefits outweigh the costs incurred.

What factors influence CRM software pricing?

Factors such as the number of users, feature set, customization options, and customer support levels can influence CRM software pricing.