Why I Switched From a Spreadsheet to 17hats to Track My Business Projects

Why 17hats Is More Than Just a CRM

17hats is an online tool designed for freelancers and small business owners to manage clients, projects, invoices, contracts, and communication in one place.

As a seasoned graphic designer running my own business for nearly two decades, I understand the challenges of managing client relationships and projects. When I started on my own, I relied on spreadsheets to organize client data, project details, and invoices. However, as my workload increased, the limitations of this makeshift system became VERY apparent.

My spreadsheet worked great - until it didn't.

The spreadsheet, while initially effective, soon became cumbersome and prone to errors. It required constant manual updates, and important information often got lost or buried within rows and columns.

I created a column to automatically change the colors (extra coding points for this one), and notes I made to myself. I had to get creative to make it work for me. But it was so much to keep track of! (see image above - screenshot from my actual spreadsheet)!

Despite my efforts to color-code and categorize tasks, tracking projects became overwhelming, leading to missed deadlines and lost opportunities. I needed something better than my spreadsheet “system.”

In my online search for a more efficient solution, I experimented with various content management systems (CMS), but none fully met my needs. I wanted quotes AND invoicing, emails templates AND time tracking.

I tried Quickbooks for invoicing and client management, but it was cumbersome and NOT PRETTY! I wanted everything coming from my graphic design business to look great!

I needed my emails, project notes, time tracking, bookkeeping, and calendar in one place.

That's when I stumbled upon 17hats, a comprehensive client relationship management (CRM) system tailored for solopreneurs - like me. From proposals and contracts to invoicing and bookkeeping, 17hats could streamline every aspect of my business operations.

During the trial period, I was impressed by the software's easy-to-understand interface and awesome features. It looked good and worked great.

It seamlessly integrated client information, project details, and communication channels into a single, cohesive dashboard. With built-in workflows that I could customize myself, email templates (o-my-gosh the time saver!), and time tracking tools, I regained control over my workload and could devote more time to getting client projects out the door.

I know it can be hard to spend money on software when you’re starting up a business.

There are so many things (and sooo many shiny objects) that need your attention. You think you’ll just “stay up a little later tonight” to catch up on the bookwork, emails, management end of your business. But it turns into every night, and your sleep suffers. You get more stressed and your family can see the effects of burnout coming. You tell the kids “just five more minutes” as they are falling asleep at your feet.

One of the most significant advantages of 17hats is its ability to centralize all client-related activities, saving time and preventing headaches. From initial inquiries to project completion, every interaction is logged and easily accessible. This streamlined approach not only improves efficiency but also enhances client satisfaction by ensuring timely responses and consistent communication.

Moreover, 17hats simplifies invoicing and payment processing, allowing me to focus on delivering quality work rather than administrative tasks. With features like online scheduling, automated lead responses, and customizable quotes, I can efficiently manage leads and convert them into happy clients who know when their invoice is due.

Transitioning to 17hats was a game-changer for my business. It empowered me to operate more professionally and effectively, ultimately elevating the level of service I provide to my clients. Instead of juggling multiple tools and systems, everything I need is conveniently housed within the 17hats platform.

17hats allows me to run my business like a business, not like a hobby.

For solopreneurs starting their journey, investing in 17hats is a wise decision. The platform offers a beginner plan tailored to small businesses, allowing them to manage their operations efficiently from the outset. And with a free 7-day trial, entrepreneurs can quit scrambling to find notes and experience the benefits of a great system before committing.

17hats is not just a CRM system—it's a comprehensive business management platform designed to help solopreneurs thrive. With its intuitive interface, robust features, and dedicated support, 17hats enables small businesses and freelancers to achieve more in less time, allowing them to focus on what they do best - creating exceptional work for their clients.