Lynx in the chain for installers and retailers

Steve Milham introduces LynxCRM , the seamless business management system for window and door installers and retailers

For decades, the double-glazing industry has been plagued by administrative headaches: missed appointments, manual invoicing, and disconnected workflows. Enter Lynx, a cloud-based administration system designed specifically for double-glazing installers and retailers. With its comprehensive features, Lynx is more than just a software—it’s a complete business solution, born out of first-hand experience in the industry.

Lynx is the brainchild of Steve Milham, a veteran in the retail and trade window industry. Drawing on his extensive market experience, Milham created Lynx to address the inefficiencies he encountered while running his own business. Reflecting on its origins, he told Windows Active: “The system was born as a result of me joining trade fabricator Whiteline, them being forced to take ownership of a client who got into difficulties, and my frustrations with having run a double-glazing business since 1982. The system literally caters for everything from the moment the phone rings with a potential new client to one that bought from me 35 years ago.”

From lead generation to after-sales service, Lynx is designed to manage the entire customer lifecycle seamlessly.

Simplifying the customer journey

Lynx streamlines every step of the customer journey, starting from lead capture. When potential clients make inquiries, Lynx ensures their details are recorded and tracked. This system is designed to minimise missed opportunities while providing tools to follow up effectively.

Sales appointments are easily managed using Lynx’s calendar, which can send out automatic reminders, reducing the risk of forgotten meetings. Field sales staff can be instantly updated via email or text, ensuring everyone is on the same page.

From quote to contract

One of the system’s most powerful features is its ability to generate professional quotations quickly. Once a quote is accepted, Lynx transforms it into an order, complete with facilities to handle deposits, surveys, and product orders. Scheduling installations becomes a breeze, with a clear overview of all jobs and their stages.

At every step, Lynx automates routine communications, presenting your business as efficient and professional. What’s more, all documents are customised with your branding, ensuring consistency and professionalism.

Managing the installation process

Lynx offers unparalleled flexibility during the installation process. Changes to schedules, order details, or pricing can be made effortlessly. The integration between Lynx’s calendar and invoice system prompts businesses to request payments as they become due—even when plans shift.

After installations, Lynx tracks snagging items, schedules after-sales service, and records warranty details. For compliance purposes, it also stores the necessary data for FENSA or other certification bodies, ensuring peace of mind for both you and your clients.

Financial and business insights

Beyond operational tasks, Lynx provides robust financial tracking. The system monitors costs from initial estimates to final invoiced amounts, exporting data directly to major accounting software packages. This eliminates the need for double entry, reducing errors and saving time.

Profitability reporting and scheduled updates help businesses stay on top of their key metrics. Whether you’re assessing individual job performance or overall company health, Lynx provides the insights you need to make informed decisions.

Cloud-Based, accessible anywhere

One of Lynx’s standout features is its cloud-based design. Users can access the platform on a PC, tablet, or mobile from anywhere with an internet connection. According to Steve: “It’s all on the cloud too, so regardless of who or where you are, if you have internet access, you have Lynx. That also applies to your clients too, as the system has an Extranet feature that allows you to make certain documents available to someone you deal with.”

This extranet functionality means clients can view essential documents—such as quotes, contracts, and invoices—without needing to contact your team, saving time and boosting efficiency.

Collaboration and customer empowerment

Lynx’s mobile app enhances collaboration by allowing field staff to access and update job details on the go. The optional extranet system empowers customers, letting them view and manage documents independently, reducing the burden on your team.

Steve summarised the system’s appeal succinctly: “Documents like Quotes, Contracts, Invoices, and a whole host of others can be available, meaning clients can take control and not waste others’ time when they get lost.”

Take Lynx for a test drive

For businesses in the double-glazing industry, Lynx represents a transformative solution. With its cloud-based capabilities, end-to-end customer management, and seamless integration with existing tools, Lynx simplifies operations while enhancing professionalism.

Why not see for yourself? Take advantage of a free three-month trial and experience the difference Lynx can make to your business. Streamline your operations, boost your efficiency, and let Lynx take care of the details—so you can focus on growing your company.

Tel: 07722 623134

E: [email protected]