What is vtiger CRM?

vtiger CRM is an open-source Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software used by businesses to manage interactions with customers and streamline processes like sales, marketing, and customer support. It includes features like contact management, lead management, sales automation, marketing automation, and more.

What are the key features of vtiger CRM?

Key features of vtiger CRM include:

• Contact and Lead Management
• Sales Pipeline Management
• Marketing Automation
• Customer Support and Help Desk
• Inventory Management
• Workflow Automation
• Reporting and Analytics
• Custom Modules and Fields
• Integration with third-party applications

How do you install vtiger CRM?

To install vtiger CRM:

1. Ensure the server meets the system requirements (Apache, MySQL/MariaDB, PHP).
2. Download the latest version of vtiger from the official website.
3. Extract the files and upload them to the server’s web directory.
4. Set the correct file permissions.
5. Create a MySQL database and user.
6. Run the web-based installation wizard to complete the setup.

What are the system requirements for vtiger CRM?

The system requirements include:

• Operating System: Linux (preferred), Windows, or MacOS.
• Web Server: Apache 2.4 or above.
• Database: MySQL 5.7 or MariaDB 10.2 or above.
• PHP: 7.3, 7.4, 8.0 (7.4 recommended).
• RAM: Minimum 2GB (4GB recommended).
• Disk Space: Minimum 250MB for installation, additional space for data.

How do you add custom fields in vtiger CRM?

To add custom fields:

1. Go to Settings > Module Manager.
2. Select the module where you want to add the custom field.
3. Click on Layout Editor.
4. Drag and drop the desired field type from the toolbox to the desired section.
5. Configure the field properties and save changes.

How can you create a custom module in vtiger CRM?

To create a custom module:

1. Use the vtiger Module Builder to define the module structure.
2. Export the module as a ZIP file.
3. Go to Settings > Module Manager > Import Module.
4. Upload the ZIP file and follow the prompts to complete the installation.

How do you integrate vtiger CRM with third-party applications?

Integration can be done using:

• Built-in connectors for common applications.
• vtiger’s REST API for custom integrations.
• Third-party integration platforms like Zapier or Integromat.

What is the vtiger REST API, and how do you use it?

The vtiger REST API allows developers to interact with vtiger CRM programmatically. It supports operations like creating, reading, updating, and deleting records. To use it:

1. Enable API access in vtiger settings.
2. Obtain the API token and use it for authentication.
3. Make HTTP requests to vtiger’s API endpoints following the API documentation.

How do you troubleshoot common issues in vtiger CRM?

Troubleshooting steps include:

1. Checking server and vtiger logs for error messages.
2. Ensuring all services (Apache, MySQL) are running.
3. Clearing vtiger’s cache and verifying file permissions.
4. Reviewing recent changes or updates that might have caused the issue.

How do you upgrade vtiger CRM?

To upgrade vtiger CRM:

1. Backup the current vtiger installation and database.
2. Download the latest version of vtiger.
3. Follow the upgrade instructions provided in the release notes.
4. Run the upgrade script via the browser and verify that the upgrade is successful.

How do you create a custom workflow in vtiger CRM?

To create a custom workflow:

1. Go to Settings > Automation > Workflows.
2. Click on New Workflow.
3. Define the conditions that trigger the workflow.
4. Add tasks and actions to be performed when the workflow is triggered.
5. Save the workflow.

How do you secure vtiger CRM?

Securing vtiger involves:

1. Regularly updating vtiger and the server software.
2. Using strong passwords and enabling two-factor authentication.
3. Configuring HTTPS (SSL) for secure communication.
4. Restricting server access through firewalls and IP whitelisting.
5. Regularly backing up data and monitoring for suspicious activity.

What are the best practices for managing data in vtiger CRM?

Best practices include:

1. Regularly cleaning and updating data to ensure accuracy.
2. Using standardized naming conventions and data entry formats.
3. Implementing data validation rules.
4. Regularly backing up data.
5. Training users on proper data entry and management procedures.

How do you generate reports in vtiger CRM?

To generate reports:

1. Go to the Reports module.
2. Click on Create Report.
3. Choose the type of report and the module.
4. Select the fields and criteria for the report.
5. Generate and save the report.