CMA Community

1. Christine
   Member

   Reputation:122

    

   We are moving to a new system, and we have the opportunity to change the way we number our customers. The new system will allow alpha & numeric entries.

   Our current system is numeric. Currently we use the first digit to identify the sales territory and then we put in alpha order within the territory, using the rest of the digits. This has always been a pain, as it seems when we have multiple users setting up accounts, we all forget how to alphabetize. So, I'm trying to get away from the old system. Also, the new system has a separate territory field, so that first number is no longer needed to identify the territory.

   Can anyone tell me what they’ve seen that works and does not work? The Customer ID# will be used to search the database & to sort customers for reports. (There are additional sort options for reports.)

   Posted 1 year ago #

2. F Scott Wilson
   Member

   Reputation:279

    

   There are strong arguments for each one. With alpha characters, the first few digits can allow you to see right away if you have the right customer, without entering them. On the other hand, straight numeric is much faster, and requires only a keypad.

   My preference is numeric, because of the speed of entry over alpha or alphanumeric coding, but if you have a huge customer base, or, for instance, ten-digit customer numbers, I would be inclined to use alphanumeric.

   Posted 1 year ago #

3. Rita
   Member

   Reputation:33

    

   I would also say numeric is the best and if your new system can be setup to limit to 5 numbers would be less data entry and easier to manipulate your customer base when you are importing/exporting your data.

   Posted 1 year ago #

4. DMarc CBA
   Member

   Reputation:80

    

   We use the first 3 alpha characters of their legal name followed by 3 numeric digits
   between 001-099. Only problem encountered is if the legal name changes... but it's not a big deal.
   The reason we use this pattern is it's less to remember or search for because the first 3 are almost always known so remember 3 digits is pretty easy.

   Posted 1 year ago #

5. Guy Nishida
   Member

   Reputation:65

    

   Regardless of the system you use, it is critical that you have clear rules for assigning the coding. Particularly with alpha characters based on the customer name, address, etc. Some company names begin with a letter or a number or their address includes a number that is written as a word. They may have a hyphenated name or other uncommon variation. The ease in locating a customer will be facilitated if everyone knows the rules and they are consistently followed. It should cover all possibilities whether it is 3M Company, Two Guys versus 2 Guys, One Main Street versus 1 Main St., 3-D Inc., or 3D Company.

   Posted 1 year ago #

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