Frequently asked questions

80 answers about Zarina CRM and about CRM applications in general

Price and licensing, data security, modules, integrations, implementation and the differences from an ERP. Search by keyword or pick a category on the left.

Updated on

80 answers9 categoriesInstant searchDirect link to each answer
Search

Find the answer by keyword or category

The search covers both the question and the answer text. Every answer starts with a one-sentence summary.

What is a CRM — General guide

What is a CRM and what does it actually mean?

In shortA CRM (Customer Relationship Management) is software that brings together in one place all information about clients, leads, quotations, orders and communication, in order to manage client relationships and organise sales.

A CRM (Customer Relationship Management) is software that brings together in one place all information about clients, leads, quotations, orders and communication, in order to manage client relationships and organise sales. Instead of keeping data scattered across spreadsheets, emails and messages WhatsApp, a CRM system organises it automatically and shows you the full history of every client. See the detailed explanation on the page What is a CRM.

Direct link to this answer

What is CRM software used for in a company?

In shortCRM software helps you sell more and in a more organised way.

CRM software helps you sell more and in a more organised way. The main uses: centralising the client base, tracking leads through the pipeline, automating quotations and invoices, managing the team’s tasks and reporting on sales performance. The result: fewer lost opportunities, less repetitive manual work and decisions based on real data.

Direct link to this answer

What is the difference between a CRM and an Excel file?

In shortThe main difference is that an Excel file is a static spreadsheet, while a CRM is a dynamic system built specifically for sales, which keeps each client’s history automatically, sends reminders and…

The main difference is that an Excel file is a static spreadsheet, while a CRM is a dynamic system built specifically for sales, which keeps each client’s history automatically, sends reminders and follow-ups, generates quotations and invoices, and gives controlled access by role. Excel becomes chaotic as the team grows — a CRM scales without losing order and without the risk of corrupting or losing data when several people use it at once.

Direct link to this answer

What types of CRM are there?

In shortThere are three main categories: operational CRM (automates sales, marketing and support), analytical CRM (analyses data for decisions and reports) and collaborative CRM (centralises communication between departments).

There are three main categories: operational CRM (automates sales, marketing and support), analytical CRM (analyses data for decisions and reports) and collaborative CRM (centralises communication between departments). In terms of hosting, they split into cloud CRM (SaaS) and self-hosted / on-premise CRM — installed on your own server, as Zarina is.

Direct link to this answer

What is a sales pipeline in a CRM?

In shortThe pipeline (or “sales channel”) is the visual representation of the stages an opportunity goes through, from first contact to completion — for example: New lead → Contacted → Quotation sent → Negotiation → Won.

The pipeline (or “sales channel”) is the visual representation of the stages an opportunity goes through, from first contact to completion — for example: New lead → Contacted → Quotation sent → Negotiation → Won. A good CRM shows you the pipeline as a Kanban board, so you can see instantly where sales get stuck.

Direct link to this answer

What is a lead and how does a CRM manage it?

In shortA lead is a potential client who has shown interest (filled in a form, asked for a quotation, called).

A lead is a potential client who has shown interest (filled in a form, asked for a quotation, called). The CRM application captures leads automatically from web forms, campaigns or imports, organises them and assigns them to agents, tracking every step up to conversion.

Direct link to this answer

What is the Kanban method in a CRM?

In shortKanban is a visual way of organising work in which tasks or opportunities are shown as cards in columns (stages).

Kanban is a visual way of organising work in which tasks or opportunities are shown as cards in columns (stages). You move the card from one column to the next as it progresses. In a CRM system, Kanban gives you immediate visual control over leads and quotations.

Direct link to this answer

What is the difference between CRM and ERP?

In shortCRM focuses on clients and sales (leads, quotations, commercial relationships).

CRM focuses on clients and sales (leads, quotations, commercial relationships). ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) covers the company’s internal resources: accounting, production, stock, human resources. In detail, with modules and costs: what ERP means.

Direct link to this answer

What is a cloud (SaaS) CRM and a self-hosted one?

In shortA cloud / SaaS CRM runs on the vendor’s servers and you pay for it as a monthly subscription; your data sits with them.

A cloud / SaaS CRM runs on the vendor’s servers and you pay for it as a monthly subscription; your data sits with them. A self-hosted (on-premise) CRM is installed on the company’s own hosting, with a one-time licence, and the data stays 100% with you. Zarina CRM is self-hosted — you own the application and the data, with no monthly rent.

Direct link to this answer

Why does a small company need a CRM?

In shortEven a small company loses money through forgotten leads, quotations not sent in time and missed follow-ups.

Even a small company loses money through forgotten leads, quotations not sent in time and missed follow-ups. A CRM removes these leaks: nothing is lost, everything is tracked automatically. It also gives you a clear picture of what works in sales, so you grow in an organised way, not chaotically.

Direct link to this answer

How does a CRM help increase sales?

In shortA CRM increases sales through: tracking every lead (zero lost opportunities), automatic follow-up (raises the response rate), fast and professional quotations, prioritising high-potential opportunities and reports that show…

A CRM increases sales through: tracking every lead (zero lost opportunities), automatic follow-up (raises the response rate), quotations fast and professional, prioritising opportunities with high potential and reports that show exactly where to focus your effort.

Direct link to this answer

What is automation in a CRM?

In shortAutomation means the system carries out repetitive tasks on its own: it sends follow-up emails, generates quotations and invoices, captures leads from forms, imports online orders and sends reminders.

Automation means the system carries out repetitive tasks on its own: it sends follow-upemails, generates quotations and invoices, captures leads from forms, imports online orders and sends reminders. Your team is freed from manual work and can focus on selling.

Direct link to this answer

What does a CRM with unlimited users mean?

In shortMost SaaS CRMs charge you monthly for each user added.

Most SaaS CRMs charge you monthly for each user added. A CRM with unlimited users lets you add any number of agents, operators or managers at no extra cost — ideal for growing teams. Zarina works exactly like that.

Direct link to this answer

What is a 360° client record?

In shortA 360° client record brings together everything you know about a client on one screen: contact details, communication history, quotations sent, orders, invoices and attached files.

A 360° client record brings together everything you know about a client on one screen: contact details, communication history, quotations sent, orders, invoices and attached files. Any team member can then take over the relationship without hunting for scattered information.

Direct link to this answer

Can a CRM integrate with other applications?

In shortYes, this is one of its most powerful features.

Yes, this is one of its most powerful features. A modern CRM connects through an API to invoicing platforms, online stores (WooCommerce, Shopify), calendars (Google, Outlook), email marketing, SMS and social networks for capturing leads.

Direct link to this answer

Is a CRM hard to learn?

In shortA well-designed CRM has an intuitive interface and can be learned in a few hours, especially with training included.

A well-designed CRM has an intuitive interface and can be learned in a few hours, especially with training included. The key is for the system to adapt to your workflow, not the other way round. Zarina includes hands-on training for the whole team at implementation.

Direct link to this answer

What role does artificial intelligence play in a modern CRM?

In shortAI in a CRM analyses data and offers intelligent recommendations: it identifies the leads most likely to convert, prioritises opportunities, suggests actions and highlights trends in sales or client feedback…

AI in a CRM analyses data and offers intelligent recommendations: it identifies the leads most likely to convert, prioritises opportunities, suggests actions and highlights trends in sales or client feedback — decisions a person would miss in the volume of data.

Direct link to this answer

How safe is data in a CRM?

In shortIt depends on the type of CRM. With a cloud CRM, the data sits on the vendor’s servers.

It depends on the type of CRM. With a cloud CRM, the data sits on the vendor’s servers. With a self-hosted CRM like Zarina, the data stays exclusively on the company’s own hosting, with backups in your own network and full access control — the highest level of security and compliance.

Direct link to this answer

How do I choose the right CRM for my business?

In shortConsider: the cost model (one-time payment vs a growing monthly subscription), scalability (cost per user or unlimited), data control (external cloud vs your own server), the integrations you need, local support and…

Consider: the cost model (one-time payment vs a growing monthly subscription), scalability (cost per user or unlimited), data control (external cloud vs your own server), the integrations you need (e-invoicing, online stores), support and the flexibility to customise it around your workflow. Zarina ticks all of these for companies in the UAE.

Direct link to this answer

Price, licensing & financial model

Is Zarina CRM a one-time payment or a monthly subscription?

In shortZarina CRM is a one-time payment with a lifetime licence — you pay once and own it permanently, with no monthly subscription, no hidden recurring fees and no renewal costs.

Zarina CRM is a one-time payment with a lifetime licence — you pay once and own it permanently, with no monthly subscription, no hidden recurring fees and no renewal costs. Unlike cloud SaaS platforms that charge rent for life, with Zarina the investment is paid off in full. Financial control stays entirely with you.

Direct link to this answer

How much does the Zarina CRM licence cost and what is included in the price?

In shortThe price is a one-time investment, with no recurring costs.

The price is a one-time investment, with no recurring costs. It includes installation on the company’s hosting, the native integrations, configuration of the modules, training for the team and support in English. For the current offer for thee-invoicing), configuration of the modules, training for the team and support in English. For the current offer for the United Arab Emirates, see the page Pricing or ask for a tailored quotation.

Direct link to this answer

Is there a cost per user or per agent added?

In shortNo, Zarina CRM gives you unlimited users at zero cost — you can add any number of sales agents, operators or managers without the licence price going up.

No, Zarina CRM gives you unlimited users at zero cost — you can add any number of sales agents, operators or managers without the licence price going up. It is the exact opposite of the classic SaaS model, where every new user artificially increases your monthly bill and limits how your team can grow.

Direct link to this answer

Do I get updates if I pay only once?

In shortYes. Maintenance updates, fixes and platform improvements are included.

Yes. Maintenance updates, fixes and platform improvements are included. Because the CRM application runs on the company’s hosting, updates are applied without interrupting your work or introducing surprise fees.

Direct link to this answer

How much do I save compared with a SaaS CRM subscription?

In shortThe saving depends on the number of users.

The saving depends on the number of users. A simple calculation: a team of 25 users on a SaaS platform charging about $15 per user per month pays roughly $4,500 a year, every year. With a lifetime licence that recurring cost disappears. The larger the team, the bigger the annual saving, because Zarina does not charge per agent.

Direct link to this answer

Why do companies move away from cloud SaaS platforms?

In shortFor three main reasons: the financial model (one-time payment vs growing monthly rent), scaling (unlimited users vs per-user charging) and data control (storage on your own server vs an external public cloud).

For three main reasons: the financial model (one-time payment vs growing monthly rent), scaling (unlimited users vs per-user charging) and data control (storage on your own server vs an external public cloud). Zarina solves all three.

Direct link to this answer

Data, security & privacy

Where is the data stored and who has access to it?

In shortAll data — clients, contracts, invoices, leads — is stored 100% locally, exclusively on your company’s hosting.

All data — clients, contracts, invoices, leads — is stored 100% locally, exclusively on your company’s hosting. Zarina is a self-hosted CRM, installed on the company’s hosting, not a cloud platform. No external entity collects, analyses or accesses your commercial data. You have absolute ownership of the information.

Direct link to this answer

Does Zarina CRM comply with data protection law?

In shortYes. Because the data stays stored locally on your own infrastructure, you remove the risks and complexity of cross-border data transfers to external public clouds — which matters for both the UAE PDPL and the GDPR.

Yes. Data stays on your own server. Because it is stored locally on your infrastructure, you remove the risks and complexity of cross-border transfers to external public clouds — relevant both for Federal Decree-Law No. 45 of 2021 (UAE PDPL) and for the GDPR, and for health data, which UAE law requires to be kept inside the country. The system includes an audit trail, consent management and granular access controls.

Direct link to this answer

How are data backups made?

In shortYou configure automated backup routines directly inside your company’s own network.

You configure automated backups directly inside your own network . This gives you maximum safety against technical incidents, with no dependence on an external cloud provider.

Direct link to this answer

What happens to the data if I stop paying anything?

In shortNothing happens — the data stays yours.

Nothing happens — the data stays yours. Because it is a self-hosted one-time licence, there is no subscription that can expire and block your access to the client base or the sales history, as happens with SaaS platforms.

Direct link to this answer

Can I restrict what certain employees see?

In shortYes. The system has strict roles and permissions.

Yes. The system has strict roles and permissions. You can limit visibility in detail: an agent can see only their own leads or clients, without the right to export the company’s whole database — essential protection against data theft.

Direct link to this answer

Is the data encrypted and protected against unauthorised access?

In shortYes. The CRM software uses secure authentication, anti-brute-force logic and session isolation.

Yes. The CRM software uses secure authentication, anti-brute-force logic and session isolation. Because it is on the company’s hosting, you also control the additional infrastructure security layer (firewall, SSL, restricted access).

Direct link to this answer

Features & CRM modules

Which main modules does this CRM system include?

In shortZarina covers the whole commercial flow: 360° client management, Kanban lead management, sales pipeline, quotations, PDF invoicing, payments module, online orders, plus operations modules (calendar, task management,…

Zarina covers the whole commercial flow: 360° client management, Kanban lead management, pipeline , quotations, Invoicing PDF, payments module, online orders, plus operations modules (calendar, task management, client support, documents) and management modules (HR & timekeeping, stock, KPI reports). The full list and the details of each module are on the page CRM features.

Direct link to this answer

What is the 360° client record and how does it help?

In shortThe 360° client record brings together all information about a client in one place: contact details, files, communication history, quotations sent and orders.

The 360° client record brings together all information about a client in one place: contact details, files, communication history, quotations sent and orders. It gives you a complete view for quick reactions and smooth processes.

Direct link to this answer

What is the Kanban view for leads and quotations?

In shortKanban is a visual board on which you move each lead or quotation between stages (e.g. New → In discussion → Quotation sent → Won).

Kanban is a visual board on which you move each lead or quotation between stages (e.g. New → In discussion → Quotation sent → Won). It gives you precise visual control over every negotiation and streamlines the sales team’s flow, raising the conversion rate.

Direct link to this answer

Can the fields, statuses and pipeline be customised?

In shortYes. The statuses, fields and sales pipeline stages can be adapted to your own way of working.

Yes. The statuses, fields and sales pipeline stages can be adapted to your own way of working. Every business has its own flow, and the CRM application is shaped around your processes, not the other way round.

Direct link to this answer

Can I generate quotations, contracts and documents automatically?

In shortYes. The document generation module instantly creates professional PDF quotations and contracts with two-party electronic signature, in two validation steps.

Yes. The document generation module instantly creates professional quotations PDF and contracts with two-party electronic signature , in two validation steps. You remove repetitive work and errors.

Direct link to this answer

Does Zarina CRM also manage stock / inventory?

In shortYes. The stock management module tracks products natively linked to the sales catalogues and services.

Yes. The stock management module tracks products natively linked to the sales catalogues and services. You get automatic out-of-stock alerts and centralise inventory movements in the same interface.

Direct link to this answer

How many reports and statistics does the platform offer?

In shortThe system includes 32 detailed KPI reports: leads, quotations, conversions, payments and performance per agent.

The system includes 32 detailed reports KPI : leads, quotations, conversions, payments and performance per agent. They direct your effort to where the financial impact is greatest.

Direct link to this answer

Is there a client support / ticketing module?

In shortYes. The support module handles tickets centrally, sets priorities and sends automatic email notifications, giving the team full control over client requests.

Yes. The support module handles tickets centrally, sets priorities and sends automatic email notifications, giving the team full control over client requests.

Direct link to this answer

Can I automate follow-up by email and SMS?

In shortYes. The follow-up system automatically sends personalised emails and SMS based on the history in the database, removing repetitive tasks and raising the response rate.

Yes. The follow-up system automatically sends personalised emails and SMS based on the history in the database, removing repetitive tasks and raising the response rate.

Direct link to this answer

Is there a synchronised activity calendar?

In shortYes. You organise meetings, calls and tasks directly in the system, with full two-way synchronisation with Google Calendar and Microsoft Outlook.

Yes. You organise meetings, calls and tasks directly in the system, with full two-way synchronisation with Google Calendar and Microsoft Outlook.

Direct link to this answer

Can I collect client reviews automatically?

In shortYes. The smart reviews module automates feedback collection through follow-up messages and SMS triggered by order status, turning feedback into concrete actions.

Yes. The reviews module automates feedback collection through messages and SMS follow-up triggered by order status, turning feedback into concrete actions.

Direct link to this answer

What is the public documentation module?

In shortIt turns the documentation section into an automatic mini-site, managed directly from the CRM.

It turns the documentation section into an automatic mini-site, managed directly from the CRM. You instantly publish information about warranties, procedures and files, giving clients complete clarity.

Direct link to this answer

Is there a notification and reminder centre?

In shortYes. The notification centre brings together all alerts — reminders, lead transfers, urgent tasks.

Yes. The notification centre brings together all alerts — reminders, lead transfers, urgent tasks. Smart reminders show a pop-up and a notification at the set time, so you miss nothing.

Direct link to this answer

Does Zarina CRM also manage partners / collaborators?

In shortYes. The partners module lets you manage relationships with collaborators, distributors or B2B partners from the same centralised platform.

Yes. The partners module lets you manage relationships with collaborators, distributors or B2B partners from the same centralised platform.

Direct link to this answer

Can I track payments and cash flow?

In shortYes. The payments module covers the whole process — from payment to reporting — automatically, with cash flow tracking and a centralised payment history for better-informed decisions.

Yes. The payments module covers the whole process — from payment to reporting — automatically, with cash flow tracking and a centralised payment history for better-informed decisions.

Direct link to this answer

Is there a catalogue of services and products?

In shortYes. The single product and service catalogues fill in automatically on leads, quotations and documents, reducing mistakes and saving the team time.

Yes. The single product and service catalogues fill in automatically on leads, quotations and documents, reducing mistakes and saving the team time.

Direct link to this answer

Integrations & API

Which invoicing platforms does it connect to?

In shortThe CRM issues its own invoices as PDF and connects to accounting software through its REST API; a specific connector for the package you use is built as part of implementation.

The CRM issues its own invoices as PDF and connects to accounting software through its REST API . A specific connector for the accounting package you use is built as part of implementation. For UAE e-invoicing, which is being introduced in phases through accredited service providers on the Peppol model, the CRM exports invoice data in a structured format that your provider can submit. invoicing

Direct link to this answer

Does it import orders from online stores automatically?

In shortYes. The online orders module automatically imports orders from WooCommerce, PrestaShop and Shopify, removing manual work and processing errors.

Yes. The online orders module automatically imports orders from WooCommerce, PrestaShop and Shopify, removing manual work and processing errors.

Direct link to this answer

Does the CRM connect to the forms on my website?

In shortYes. Through the API it automatically pulls leads from WordPress forms (Elementor, Contact Form 7), from third-party platforms, Facebook Lead Ads or bulk CSV lists, straight into the Kanban views.

Yes. Through the API it automatically pulls leads from WordPress forms (Elementor, Contact Form 7), from third-party platforms, Facebook Lead Ads or bulk CSV lists, straight into the Kanban views.

Direct link to this answer

What other native integrations are available?

In shortThe ecosystem includes: WooCommerce, Shopify, PrestaShop, Google Calendar, Microsoft Outlook, Brevo, Google Forms, Facebook Lead Ads, WhatsApp Business, Stripe and PayPal Business.

The ecosystem includes: e-invoicingWooCommerce, Shopify, PrestaShop, Google Calendar, Microsoft Outlook, Brevo, Google Forms, Facebook Lead Ads, WhatsApp Business, Stripe and PayPal Business.

Direct link to this answer

Can I send email marketing campaigns from the CRM?

In shortYes. The email marketing module connects to Brevo, synchronises the client base automatically and gives detailed real-time performance reports for your campaigns.

Yes. The email marketing module connects to Brevo, synchronises the client base automatically and gives reports detailed real-time performance reports for your campaigns.

Direct link to this answer

Is there a drag & drop form builder?

In shortYes. You can build dynamic forms (drag & drop) that feed new leads straight into the CRM, with no code.

Yes. You can build dynamic forms (drag & drop) that feed new leads straight into the CRM, with no code. See the form builder.

Direct link to this answer

Can a custom integration be developed for my business?

In shortYes. If you need a specific integration, a custom report or a dedicated algorithm, our specialists can build the automation directly on your self-hosted platform.

Yes. If you need a specific integration, a custom report or a dedicated algorithm, our specialists can build the automation directly on your self-hosted platform. You can propose an automation.

Direct link to this answer

Artificial intelligence in CRM

What role does artificial intelligence play in Zarina CRM?

In shortThe AI modules analyse activity automatically and offer intelligent recommendations: they identify the most promising opportunities, rank unfinished leads and highlight where your team can get better returns.

The AI modules analyse activity automatically and offer intelligent recommendations: they identify the most promising opportunities, rank unfinished leads and highlight where your team can get better returns.

Direct link to this answer

What types of AI analysis are included?

In shortThe system offers AI analysis for clients, leads, quotations, KPI reports, reviews and HR & timekeeping.

The system offers AI analysis for clients, leads, quotations, Reports KPI, reviews and HR & timekeeping. Each module turns raw data into concrete suggestions for action.

Direct link to this answer

How does the AI-based Opportunities feature help?

In shortSmart algorithms automatically find the most promising sales opportunities and rank unfinished leads, so the team works in an organised way and prioritises correctly.

Smart algorithms automatically find the most promising sales opportunities and rank unfinished leads, so the team works in an organised way and prioritises correctly.

Direct link to this answer

Does the AI process data locally or in an external cloud?

In shortThe analysis features are built into your self-hosted platform.

The analysis features are built into your self-hosted platform. You get intelligent recommendations while keeping control over where your CRM system runs.

Direct link to this answer

Implementation, migration & support

What happens after I send the implementation request?

In shortThe process has 3 steps: 1) Order & initial audit — we analyse your pipeline; 2) Installation on the company’s hosting — we configure the platform and the integrations in 24–48 hours; 3) Training & launch — we train the team and you are ready to work.

The process has 3 steps: 1) Order & initial audit — we analyse your pipeline; 2) Installation on the company’s hosting — we configure the platform and the integrations in 24–48 hours; 3) Training & launch — we train the team and you are ready to work.

Direct link to this answer

How long does installing the CRM software take?

In shortFull configuration on your infrastructure is normally done within a steady 24–48 hours, including the native integrations needed.

Full configuration on your infrastructure is normally done within a steady 24–48 hours, including the native integrations needed.

Direct link to this answer

Can I import my current client base from Excel or another CRM?

In shortYes. Existing lists from Excel or other CRM systems are imported securely, with technical assistance, usually in under 48 hours and with no data loss.

Yes. Existing lists from Excel or other CRM systems are imported securely, with technical assistance, usually in under 48 hours and with no data loss.

Direct link to this answer

Do I need technical knowledge to use the CRM?

In shortNo. The interface is intuitive, designed for day-to-day business use.

No. The interface is intuitive, designed for day-to-day business use. We also provide hands-on training for your team, so agents and managers adopt the workflow quickly.

Direct link to this answer

What support is included after purchase?

In shortYou get support by email, plus free training included.

You get support by email (WhatsApp , plus free training included. You do not depend on impersonal ticket queues, as with global SaaS platforms.

Direct link to this answer

Can it be used on several devices?

In shortYes. Because it is accessed through a browser, you can work from a desktop, laptop, tablet or phone, as long as you have access to the server where the application is installed.

Yes. Because it is accessed through a browser, you can work from a desktop, laptop, tablet or phone, as long as you have access to the server where the application is installed.

Direct link to this answer

What happens if I need a module that does not exist?

In shortThe team can develop custom modules and workflows directly on your private architecture.

The team can develop custom modules and workflows directly on your private architecture. Because it is self-hosted, the platform is fully extensible around the specifics of your business.

Direct link to this answer

UAE & localisation

What does the version for the United Arab Emirates include?

In shortThe UAE version is in English, with right-to-left support for Arabic, pricing in dirhams or dollars, and an on-premise setup on the company’s own server in the UAE.

The UAE version is in English, with right-to-left display support for Arabic, pricing in dirhams or dollars, and the same on-premise setup on the company’s own server. Data stays in the country, which matters for the UAE PDPL and, for clinics, for the rule that health data is kept inside the UAE. For e-invoicing, which the Federal Tax Authority is introducing in phases through accredited service providers, the CRM exports invoice data in a structured format that your provider can submit. It does not submit on your behalf.

Direct link to this answer

What is an ERP and what does it mean?

In shortAn ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) is software that integrates and centralises a company’s major internal processes — accounting, stock, procurement, production, human resources and logistics — so that…

A ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) is software that integrates and centralises a company’s major internal processes — accounting, stock, procurement, production, human resources and logistics — so that all departments work with the same data. The purpose of an ERP is to unify internal operations in one platform, removing isolated systems and double data entry.

Direct link to this answer

What is the difference between CRM and ERP?

In shortThe essential difference: a CRM manages clients and sales (leads, quotations, pipeline, commercial relationships, support), while an ERP manages the company’s internal resources (accounting, stock, production, payroll).

The essential difference: a CRM manages clients and sales (leads, quotations, pipeline, commercial relationships, support), while an ERP manages internal resources (accounting, stock, production, payroll). In short, the CRM looks outward (market and clients), the ERP looks inward (operations and resources). The two complement each other and can be integrated.

Direct link to this answer

Do I need a CRM and an ERP separately, or just one?

In shortIt depends on the size and complexity of the company.

It depends on the size and complexity of the company. Small and medium sales-focused companies usually start with a strong CRM that also covers invoicingthrough integrations. Large companies with complex production and extensive stock also need a dedicated ERP. Zarina CRM covers the commercial and financial side (quotations, invoicing, payments, basic stock) and integrates with accounting systems for the bookkeeping part.

Direct link to this answer

Can a CRM be integrated with an ERP?

In shortYes, and it is recommended. Through the API, the CRM sends commercial data to the ERP (orders, invoices, new clients), and the ERP returns information about stock, prices or the accounting position.

Yes, and it is recommended. Through the API, the CRM sends commercial data to the ERP (orders, invoices, new clients), and the ERP returns information about stock, prices or the accounting position. This avoids double data entry between the sales department and finance.

Direct link to this answer

Does Zarina CRM include ERP-type features?

In shortZarina CRM includes several modules that overlap with basic ERP functions: stock and inventory management, invoicing and proformas, a payments module, a product/service catalogue and financial reports.

Zarina CRM includes several modules that overlap with basic ERP functions: management of stock and inventory, invoicing and proformas, a payments module, a product/service catalogue and financial reports. For full bookkeeping it connects to your accounting software through its API.

Direct link to this answer

Which modules does an ERP system usually have?

In shortA typical ERP contains modules for: accounting and finance, stock and warehouse management, procurement, production, sales and distribution, human resources and payroll, plus reporting and business intelligence.

A typical ERP contains modules for: accounting and finance, management of stock and warehouses, procurement, production, sales and distribution, human resources and payroll, plus reporting and business intelligence.

Direct link to this answer

What is the difference between a cloud ERP and an on-premise one?

In shortA cloud ERP (SaaS) runs on the vendor’s servers, with a monthly subscription and data hosted externally.

A cloud ERP (SaaS) runs on the vendor’s servers, with a monthly subscription and data hosted externally. An on-premise (self-hosted) ERP is installed on the company’s hosting, with full control of the data and usually an owned licence. Like Zarina CRM, on-premise solutions give absolute ownership of the data and independence from the vendor.

Direct link to this answer

Does an ERP replace a CRM?

In shortNot entirely. Many ERPs have a sales module, but it is usually more limited than a dedicated CRM.

Not entirely. Many ERPs have a sales module, but it is usually more limited than a dedicated CRM. A specialised CRM offers advanced lead management, a pipeline visual Kanban, automated follow-up and AI analysis of opportunities — functions a general-purpose ERP does not cover in depth.

Direct link to this answer

Which is more suitable for a services company: CRM or ERP?

In shortFor services, consultancy, maintenance or creative companies, a CRM is usually the priority — because the value lies in managing client relationships, quotations, contracts and invoicing.

For services, consultancy, maintenance or creative companies, a CRM is usually the priority — because the value lies in managing client relationships, quotations, contracts and invoicing. Zarina CRM is built exactly for this kind of flow, with invoicing integrated into e-invoicing.

Direct link to this answer

How much does implementing an ERP cost compared with a CRM?

In shortClassic ERPs are usually significantly more expensive and take longer to implement, because of the complexity (accounting, production, multiple integrations).

Classic ERPs are usually significantly more expensive and take longer to implement, because of the complexity (accounting, production, multiple integrations). A self-hosted CRM such as Zarina has a implementation fast (24–48 hours) and a one-time licence, without the recurring costs of most cloud ERPs.

Direct link to this answer

Is data in an ERP safe if it is self-hosted?

In shortYes — a self-hosted system (whether CRM or ERP) keeps the data exclusively on the company’s hosting, with backups configured in the internal network and full access control.

Yes — a self-hosted system (whether CRM or ERP) keeps the data exclusively on the company’s hosting, with backups configured in the internal network and full access control. You remove the risks of public clouds and the complexity of data transfers, which helps with both UAE and EU data protection requirements.

Direct link to this answer

How do I choose between extending the CRM and adding an ERP?

In shortThe practical rule: if your challenges are about sales, clients, quotations and invoicing, you extend the CRM.

The practical rule: if your challenges are about sales, clients, quotations and invoicing, you extend the CRM. If complex needs appear around production, multi-warehouse management or advanced analytical accounting, you add an integrated ERP. Because Zarina is self-hosted, it can be extended with custom modules directly on your architecture.

Direct link to this answer

Is an ERP useful for small companies in the UAE?

In shortFor most small and medium companies, a full ERP is often too complex and too expensive at the start.

For most small and medium companies, a full ERP is often too complex and too expensive at the start. A CRM with integrated commercial and financial features (stock, invoicing, payments), such as Zarina, covers the real needs at a far more affordable cost, in the UAE as elsewhere. United Arab Emirates.

Direct link to this answer

Can Zarina be extended with custom ERP modules?

In shortYes. Because it is a self-hosted platform, the engineering team can develop additional ERP-type modules directly on the company’s hosting — from advanced stock management to operational workflows specific to your business.

Yes. Because it is a self-hosted platform, the engineering team can develop additional ERP-type modules directly on the company’s hosting — from advanced management of stock to operational workflows specific to your business. You can propose a custom development.

Direct link to this answer

Next steps

Can’t find the answer?

Every module has its own page, with a full description and its limits stated explicitly. For specific situations, write to us directly.

Product sheet

Get the complete product sheet by email

A six-page document with everything you need to know before a sales conversation. No obligation and no sales call.

  • The platform core and the 13 module packages, with what each one contains
  • The features and modules of the edition you choose, plus available integrations
  • Full pricing and what it includes: installation, training, data import, warranty
  • The native integrations available and the situations where the platform is not a good fit

No monthly subscription

Take control of your operations, once

We install Zarina CRM on your hosting, configure it around your own workflow and train your team. From that moment on, the application is an asset of your company, not a recurring expense.