In the field of sales and product configuration, two terms are often used: CPQ (Configure, Price, Quote) and configurator.
Although these concepts are closely related, they address distinct needs in the sales process. This article aims to clarify these essential differences to help companies choose the solution best suited to their needs.
What is a CPQ ?
CPQ is a complete software solution that helps companies configure their products or services, price accurately, and generate quotes instantly.
Here are some key features of a CPQ system:
- Configuration: CPQ enables users to select options, features and specifications to customize a complex product or service.
- Pricing: With advanced pricing rules, CPQ ensures that each configuration is correctly priced, taking into account discounts, promotions and customer specifications.
- Quotation Generation: The system automatically generates accurate, professional quotations, reducing human error and accelerating the sales cycle.
What is a Configurator ?
A configurator, on the other hand, is a tool usually integrated into a company’s website, enabling customers to customize a product according to their needs and preferences.
Here are some typical aspects of a configurator:
- Customization: Customers can modify colors, sizes, accessories, etc., to create a unique product.
- Visualization: Configurators often offer 3D visualizations to enable customers to see modifications in real time.
- User Experience: This tool is designed to enhance the customer experience by offering an intuitive and engaging interaction.
CPQ vs Configurator: Main differences
- Functional scope: A CPQ covers the configuration, pricing and quote generation process, while a configurator focuses primarily on product personalization.
- Target audience: CPQs are often used by internal sales teams to manage complex sales, while configurators are designed for end-customers to personalize their online purchases.
- Complexity and integration: CPQ solutions are generally more complex, requiring integration with CRM, ERP and other business management tools. Configurators, on the other hand, are often stand-alone modules or website plug-ins.
Conclusion
In summary, although the terms CPQ and configurator are sometimes used interchangeably, they serve different purposes within the sales process. The CPQ is a more comprehensive and sophisticated solution for companies wishing to optimize their sales process for complex products. The configurator, on the other hand, is a powerful personalization tool designed to enhance the customer experience and increase online sales.
For any company looking to implement these solutions, it’s crucial to fully understand its specific needs in order to choose the most appropriate technology.
At ITCelerator, we’re here to help you navigate this choice and integrate these tools in the best possible way to maximize your sales efficiency.
Helping you choose the best solution
The best solution doesn’t mean anything. It’s the solution that’s best suited to your needs and constraints.
