Google Sheets CRM Templates for Insightful Decisions

What are Google Sheets CRM templates, and why are businesses using them? Small and mid-sized companies need simple ways to manage customer relationships. Spreadsheets offer a flexible solution without the cost of expensive software. Tracking a customer satisfaction metric becomes easier with organized data.

Google Sheets CRM templates provide a practical alternative. They help track leads, manage contacts, and organize sales data—all in one place. You can also generate a sales pipeline report to monitor deal progress and forecast revenue.

Custom functions, formulas, and automation make these templates more than simple spreadsheets. They generate reports, set reminders, and even integrate with other apps. With built-in customer behavior analytics, businesses can gain insights into buying patterns and engagement trends.

Google Sheets CRM templates also help companies avoid data silos. Many small teams rely on scattered notes, emails, and separate documents. With a centralized sheet, everyone works from the same data set. This improves accuracy and prevents lost information.

Google Sheets CRM templates are a smart choice for startups and growing businesses. They offer simplicity with structure. They are an excellent choice for companies looking for a budget-friendly way to manage their sales process.

Let’s dive deeper.

What Are Google Sheets CRM Templates?

Definition: Google Sheets CRM templates help businesses track customer relationships. They organize contacts, sales, and follow-ups in a simple spreadsheet. Many companies use them instead of expensive CRM software. Keeping data clean is essential, and the ability to remove duplicates in Google Sheets ensures accuracy.

These templates allow teams to collaborate in real-time. Data updates instantly, keeping everyone on the same page. Automation and formulas make tasks more manageable. You can customize them to fit your business needs.

Google Sheets CRM templates offer a cost-effective way to manage customer data. They simplify organization without complicated tools.

Why Use a CRM Google Sheets Template?

Managing customer relationships shouldn’t be complicated or expensive. Many businesses need a simple system without long setup times or high costs. A Google Sheets CRM template keeps everything organized without the hassle of complex software.

Here’s why you should make it your top priority:

• Cost-effective solution: CRM software charges a high monthly fee, which is tough for growing teams. The Google Sheets CRM template is free and costs nothing for all businesses.
• Easy accessibility: Google Sheets is cloud-based – your team can access it from any device with an internet connection. This allows for real-time collaboration without needing installation or updating.
• Customization and flexibility: You can customize a Google Sheets CRM template to suit your needs. It provides complete control over layout and functionality, unlike rigid CRM software.
• Simplified data management: By storing customer data in a single spreadsheet, you reduce human error and avoid lost information. Having everything in one solution helps your team track contacts, sales, and tasks more productively.
• Integration with Google Workspace: Google Sheets connects seamlessly with Gmail, Calendar, and other Workspace apps. This makes communication and scheduling easier. Moreover, automated updates and data syncing save time and keep your business organized.

Who Can Use a CRM Template for Google Sheets?

A CRM template for Google Sheets is a simple, affordable tool that fits different needs. Tracking metrics like customer effort score helps measure how easy interactions are for customers. Whether running a small business, managing clients, or organizing outreach, this solution keeps everything in one place.

Here’s who can benefit from using this template:

• Small businesses & startups: Small teams need an easy way to manage leads and customers. A Google Sheets CRM template helps track sales, follow-ups, and client interactions without expensive software.
• Freelancers & consultants: Freelancers juggle multiple clients and projects. A CRM template organizes contacts, invoices, and deadlines, smoothing client management.
• Sales & marketing teams: Sales teams rely on accurate data to close deals. A CRM template helps track prospects, monitor progress, and analyze real-time performance.
• Customer support teams: Support teams need quick access to customer history. A Google Sheets CRM template organizes records, ensuring faster responses and better service.
• Nonprofits & NGOs: Nonprofits manage donors, volunteers, and outreach efforts. A CRM template keeps contact lists, donations, and event planning structured and accessible.

How to Create a CRM Spreadsheet Template in Google Sheets?

Building a CRM spreadsheet in Google Sheets is easier than you think—no need for fancy software or coding skills. With a few steps, you’ll have a simple system to manage contacts, track sales, and stay organized.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Open Google Sheets: Start with a blank sheet or use a template. Give the sheet a clear name so it’s easy to find.
2. Define CRM categories: Decide what information you need. Common categories include Name, Email, Phone, Status, and Notes.
3. Format the sheet for clarity: Use bold headers, color coding, and gridlines to keep things readable. A well-structured sheet makes data easier to scan.
4. Add filters & sorting options: Filters help you quickly find contacts, leads, or deals. Sorting by date, priority, or status keeps everything organized.
5. Automate with Google Workspace: Formulas, Google Forms, or App Script can streamline tasks. Automation can update statuses, send reminders, or sync with Gmail.

How to Analyze Google Sheets CRM Templates?

Spreadsheets are great, but staring at rows of numbers won’t tell you much.

That’s where Google Sheets CRM templates help. They organize customer data, track leads, and streamline workflows. However, Google Sheets has its limits in data visualization. Basic charts and graphs don’t always reveal deep insights. This presents a problem when analyzing trends, sales performance, or customer behavior.

ChartExpo solves this by offering advanced, easy-to-use visualizations. It turns raw data into clear, interactive charts—helping businesses make smarter decisions.

Top 5 Charts Created Using ChartExpo:

Sankey Chart:

CSAT Survey Chart:

CSAT Survey Bar Chart:

Likert Scale Chart

Stacked Bar Chart:

How to Install ChartExpo in Google Sheets?

1. To start using ChartExpo, download it directly from the Google Sheets program. To do this, select Extensions from the top toolbar.
2. A menu will appear. Click the Get add-ons option.
3. Search for ChartExpo, and click on Charts, Graphs & Visualizations by ChartExpo when it appears in the results.
4. Click the Install button. You will have to confirm your Google account and accept some permissions.

ChartExpo charts are available both in Google Sheets and Microsoft Excel. Please use the following CTAs to install the tool of your choice and create beautiful data visualizations in a few clicks in your favorite tool.

Example

Let’s use this sample data to learn how to create a chart in Google Sheets using ChartExpo :

Country	Seat_type	Recommended	Type_of_traveler	Stars
Hong Kong	Business Class	yes	Family Leisure	5
United Kingdom	Economy Class	no	Solo Leisure	3
Iceland	Business Class	yes	Solo Leisure	3
Iceland	Business Class	yes	Couple Leisure	5
Canada	Economy Class	no	Family Leisure	5
Qatar	Business Class	no	Business	3
United Kingdom	Economy Class	no	Couple Leisure	3
Spain	Economy Class	no	Couple Leisure	1
United Kingdom	Premium Economy	no	Couple Leisure	9
Germany	Economy Class	no	Business	7
United Kingdom	Economy Class	no	Family Leisure	3
United Kingdom	Business Class	no	Solo Leisure	5
United Kingdom	Economy Class	no	Solo Leisure	3
United Kingdom	Economy Class	no	Couple Leisure	3
United Kingdom	Business Class	no	Family Leisure	5
United Kingdom	Business Class	yes	Business	5
United Kingdom	Business Class	no	Couple Leisure	3
United Kingdom	Economy Class	no	Couple Leisure	3
United Kingdom	Premium Economy	no	Couple Leisure	1
United States	Economy Class	no	Business	9
United Kingdom	Economy Class	no	Family Leisure	7
United Kingdom	Premium Economy	no	Solo Leisure	3

• To get started with ChartExpo, install ChartExpo in Google Sheets.
• Go to Extensions > Charts, Graphs & Visualizations by ChartExpo > Open.

• To access the charts library, click the Add new chart button.

• Once ChartExpo is loaded. Click on “Sankey Chart”.

• First, insert the data table into the sheet. Then, select the Sheet name from the drop-down menu in the ChartExpo section.
• Select the metric column; metric is the numeric column in your data sheet.
• Select the dimensions column; the dimension is the categorical column in your datasheet that contains text information.
• Click the Create chart button to complete the process.

• ChartExpo will generate the visualization below for you.

• If you want to have the chart’s title, click Edit Chart, as shown in the above image.
• Click the pencil icon next to the Chart Header to change the title.
• It will open the properties dialog. Under the Text section, you can add a heading in Line 1 and enable Show.
• Give the appropriate title of your chart and click the Apply button.

• You can disable the percentage value as follows:

• You can add the colors of Nodes of Status as follows:

• Click the “Save Changes” button to persist the changes.

• Your final chart will appear as below.

Insights

• Business class is the top recommendation, especially for Family Leisure and Solo Leisure travelers.
• The United Kingdom leads in bookings, mainly in Economy Class, with lower ratings.
• Premium Economy shows inconsistent ratings, reflecting mixed traveler experiences.

How to Use CRM Templates for Google Sheets?

A CRM template for Google Sheets is more than a spreadsheet. It’s a system to manage customers, track sales, and improve teamwork. You can turn a simple sheet into a powerful tool with a few innovative steps.

Here’s how to make the most of it:

1. Input customer data: Add names, emails, phone numbers, and other details. Keep it organized so you can find information fast.
2. Track leads and sales progress: Update statuses as leads move through the sales pipeline. This helps you see what’s working and where to follow up.
3. Use filters & conditional formatting: Highlight key data using colors and automatic formatting. Filters make it easy to sort by priority, status, or deadline.
4. Collaborate with your team: Share the sheet with your team for real-time updates. This way, everyone stays on the same page without endless emails.
5. Automate processes: Set up formulas, reminders, and integrations with Gmail or Calendar. Automation reduces manual work and keeps things running smoothly.

Benefits and Limitations of a CRM Google Sheets Template

A CRM Google Sheets template is a smart choice for many businesses. It’s simple, affordable, and gets the job done. With organized data, tracking customer service KPIs becomes easier. Let’s explore this template’s excellent benefits and limitations to consider.

Benefits

• Cost-effective: Most CRM platforms charge a monthly fee per user, which can add up quickly. A Google Sheets CRM template is free, making it ideal for small businesses on a tight budget.
• Easy to use: No special training or technical skills necessary. You can handle customer data as effectively as if you were using a spreadsheet.
• Cloud-based access: Since Google Sheets is used online, you can access it from any device with an internet connection. As a data specialist, you manage a single data version with real-time updates, ensuring everyone sees the latest information.
• Customizable: This template gives complete flexibility compared to rigid CRM software. You can add or remove fields and leverage all the amazing functionalities added.
• Collaborative: Multiple users can edit the same sheet simultaneously, eliminating the need to email different versions back and forth.
• Integration with Google Workspace: Google Sheets integrates with Gmail, Calendar, and Forms, allowing you to make business processes more efficient. Automating follow-ups and managing contacts becomes much easier.

Limitations

• Limited automation: Essential functions like formulas and scripts can help, but full automation requires third-party tools. More advanced CRM features, like automated workflows, are not built-in.
• Scalability issues: A spreadsheet works well for small teams but may slow down with thousands of entries. Large-scale data management is better suited for dedicated CRM software.
• Manual data entry: Most information needs to be entered by hand, which takes time. Without automation, updating records can become tedious.
• Security risks: Google Sheets lacks advanced security features like role-based access and encryption. Storing sensitive customer data may require additional security measures.

Tips to Use Google Spreadsheet CRM Template Effectively

A Google Spreadsheet CRM template is a powerful tool—if you use it right. A messy, outdated sheet slows you down. The key is keeping it organized, automated, and secure.

How?

• Stay organized: Structure your sheet to quickly find leads, follow-ups, and key customer details. Clear headings, filters, and conditional formatting make data easy to scan.
• Automate where possible: Use formulas, drop-down lists, and Google Forms to speed up data entry. Automation reduces manual work and minimizes errors.
• Keep data accurate: Standardized formats for names, dates, and statuses prevent inconsistencies. Regular updates ensure the CRM reflects the latest customer interactions. For better results and accuracy, learn how to remove duplicates in Google Sheets.
• Control access & collaborate wisely: Limit editing rights to avoid accidental deletions or unwanted changes. Share access with your team while protecting sensitive information.
• Keep data consistent & updated: To avoid confusion, use standard formats for names, dates, and statuses. Regular updates ensure the CRM reflects real-time business activity.
• Control access & permissions: Limit editing rights to prevent accidental changes or data loss. Share the sheet wisely to keep sensitive information secure.

FAQs

Can you use Google Sheets as a CRM?

Yes, you can use Google Sheets as a CRM. It helps track contacts, sales, and follow-ups. With filters, formulas, and automation, it organizes data efficiently. However, it’s important to note that it lacks advanced features like built-in automation and scalability for large businesses.

How do I use a spreadsheet as a CRM?

• Create a structured sheet with columns for contacts, deals, and follow-ups.
• Use filters and conditional formatting to organize and highlight key data.
• Automate tasks with formulas and Google Forms for efficiency.
• Share with your team for real-time collaboration.
• Regularly update data to keep it accurate and useful.

Wrap Up

Google Sheets CRM templates offer a simple way to manage customer relationships. They help track contacts, sales, and interactions. With these templates, you can organize data without expensive software using a customer relationship management dashboard for better insights.

Google Sheets CRM templates are easy to use and require no special training. Anyone familiar with spreadsheets can set up and maintain them. With basic formulas and filters, managing customer data becomes effortless.

Google Sheets makes collaboration easy. Teams can update records instantly. Everyone stays aligned without constant email exchanges.

However, Google Sheets has limitations in automation and data visualization. Large datasets can slow it down. Also, its built-in charts and graphs may not provide deep insights or effective customer journey visualization for tracking user interactions.

ChartExpo is the Google Sheets extension that enhances data visualization. It transforms raw numbers into clear, interactive charts, making analyzing customer trends easier and more effective.

A Google Sheets CRM template is a great starting point. It works well for small teams and businesses on a budget.

Smart integrations and add-ons can make these templates even more powerful. Install ChartExpo to enhance data visualization and analysis.