Effective Strategies for Handling Sticky Contacts

Overview of Sticky Contacts

Sticky contacts are a feature in Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems that allows a user's information to be remembered and auto-filled during future form submissions. This functionality is designed to expedite form completion for returning users, minimizing the time spent on repetitive entries and lowering the risk of errors. However, it's essential to manage sticky contacts appropriately to avoid unintentional data overwrites.

How Sticky Contacts Operate

When a user fills out a form or survey with their details, the CRM can store this information for future use. If sticky contacts are active, the system will attempt to recognize and reuse this data the next time a form is filled out by the same user. However, if a user submits a form for another individual without clearing their session—such as by not clearing cookies or staying in the same browser—the system may overwrite the original contact’s data with the new entry. This occurs because the CRM assumes the user is still interacting with the initial contact.

Key Recommendations for Managing Sticky Contacts

To maximize the efficiency of sticky contacts while safeguarding data integrity, here are some best practices:

• Use Incognito Mode or Clear Cookies: Before entering details for a new contact, users should either clear their browser cookies or open an incognito window. This ensures the system won’t link the new contact’s information to data from a prior session.

• Disable Sticky Contacts When Needed: If team members frequently submit forms for different contacts in rapid succession, it may be wise to disable sticky contacts for specific forms. This can typically be managed through the CRM’s form or survey settings, allowing for each contact's information to be treated as a new entry.

• Training and Awareness: Ensure that all team members understand the function of sticky contacts and the best ways to manage them. Regular training sessions can help reinforce the importance of these practices.
  
  

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• What if contact details are overwritten by mistake?
  If a contact's information has been replaced unintentionally, you can manually edit the contact’s details to correct it. Prevent future occurrences by applying the recommended practices listed above.
  

• Can overwritten information be recovered?
  Whether or not overwritten data can be recovered depends on the CRM's data backup and recovery options. Consult your CRM administrator for details on restoring data.
  

• How do I disable sticky contacts on specific forms?
  Sticky contacts can usually be disabled within the form or survey settings. Look for an option labeled "Sticky Contacts" or something similar and adjust it accordingly.