Why We Are Building smallCRM: The Problem with Traditional SaaS
We’re not building smallCRM because we think the world needs another CRM system. We’re building it because we were frustrated customers who deserved better.
The Traditional SaaS Trap
Most SaaS companies follow a model that prioritizes maximum revenue extraction over customer success. Here’s what we experienced:
Rigid Tier Systems
Traditional CRMs force you into predefined boxes that rarely fit your actual needs. You’re either paying for features you don’t use, or missing features you desperately need. There’s no middle ground.
Feature Bundling Madness
Why should you pay for advanced reporting when all you need is basic contact management? Why should you pay for marketing automation when you just want to track customer interactions? Traditional SaaS companies bundle features together to maximize revenue, not to serve your needs.
Artificial Scarcity
Features are deliberately limited to higher tiers, creating artificial scarcity. Basic functionality that should be included in every plan is held hostage behind expensive upgrades.
Upgrade Pressure
Aggressive sales tactics, confusing pricing, and constant pressure to upgrade. It feels like you’re being sold to rather than helped.
Our “Aha” Moment
After years of being customers ourselves, we realized something fundamental: SaaS companies don’t have to operate this way.
We believe there’s a better approach - one that puts customers first, offers fair pricing, and focuses on helping businesses succeed rather than maximizing revenue extraction.
The smallCRM Difference
Per-Seat + Addons Model
Instead of rigid tiers, we’re building a system with a simple $15/month per seat for core functionality, plus addon modules that you can mix and match as needed. You’ll only pay for what you actually use.
No Forced Bundling
Want time tracking but not advanced reporting? No problem. Need file uploads but not marketing automation? You’ll get it. Mix and match modules based on your actual needs.
Transparent Pricing
We’re committed to being open about our costs and pricing. No hidden fees, no surprise charges, no confusing tier structures. Just clear, fair pricing based on actual value.
Customer Success Focus
We’ll measure success by how well our customers succeed, not by how much revenue we extract from them. When you win, we win.
Building Something Different
smallCRM isn’t just another CRM system - it’s a statement about how business should be done. We believe that by putting customers first, being fair and transparent, and focusing on real value, we can build a successful business that everyone benefits from.
We’re very close to releasing smallCRM, and we can’t wait to show you what we’ve been working on. This is just the beginning. We’re building the CRM we wish existed when we were customers, and we’re doing it with a philosophy that puts people before profits.
Stay tuned for more posts about our pricing philosophy and long-term vision, and be among the first to know when smallCRM launches.