Bringing enterprise-ready CRM capabilities to the open WordPress DXP

Contrary to what many assume, most proprietary DXPs do not come with a native CRM—just like WordPress. This means whether you choose a proprietary DXP or WordPress as an Open DXP, you’re integrating a CRM either way.

The real question becomes: Which platform offers better integration, flexibility, and long-term value?

Let’s now break down why bringing enterprise-grade CRM to WordPress makes more sense than relying on closed platforms.

Since no DXP ships with an out-of-the-box enterprise CRM, the focus shifts to evaluating integration capabilities. Choosing the right CRM for your DXP hinges on answering key questions. The real decision-making comes down to:

Evaluating CRM integrations: The key questions

When integrating an enterprise CRM into a DXP, consider a few essential factors:

1. Does your preferred CRM integrate with your DXP?
   If so, what is the level of integration? Is it limited to basic data syncing, or does it support real-time interactions, automation, reporting, and deep personalization within the DXP?
2. How does the integration work?
   Is it a plug-and-play solution, or does it require custom middleware, proprietary connectors, or extensive development work? If your CRM changes in the future, how easy is it to transition?
3. What is the cost of integration?
   Some DXPs charge licensing fees for integration connectors, while others may require substantial development work. Businesses must evaluate both initial costs and long-term maintenance overhead.

Generally, proprietary DXPs offer limited native CRM integrations, meaning enterprises may face additional expenses and technical challenges to achieve their desired level of connectivity. On the other hand, WordPress provides virtually unlimited integration possibilities at a fraction of the cost.

The complexity of CRM integration in proprietary DXPs

Integrating a CRM with a proprietary DXP can often turn into a complex IT project. While many DXPs offer pre-built connectors, these are not always complete solutions and often require additional coding, third-party middleware, or platform-specific configurations.

Take, for example, Salesforce Marketing Cloud integration with Sitecore.

• To connect Salesforce Marketing Cloud with Sitecore, you need to use Sitecore Connect—Sitecore’s low-code/no-code integration service.
• While Sitecore Connect simplifies some aspects of integration, it still requires custom development to enable deeper CRM capabilities.
• Additionally, Sitecore Connect comes with an annual fee of $20,000/year (as of writing this)—a significant investment for enabling connectivity.

This means that enterprises relying on Sitecore not only pay for Sitecore’s licensing fees but also incur additional expenses to achieve CRM integration, with ongoing costs for upgrades, extensions, and maintenance.

WordPress and CRM integration: A more “open” and efficient approach

With WordPress, CRM integration looks significantly different.

Let’s return to the Salesforce Marketing Cloud integration but in the WordPress ecosystem. Platforms like WordPress VIP offer a native integration solution for Salesforce Marketing Cloud at a much lower cost—around $12,000/year. (By the way, we have worked on this integration—read the full story here.)

Such integrations enable WordPress to achieve deeper Salesforce connectivity without excessive overhead. Compared to Sitecore’s approach, WordPress VIP offers:

• A more cost-effective integration (nearly 40% less expensive than Sitecore Connect)
• A WordPress-native solution that works seamlessly within the ecosystem
• Faster implementation with minimal custom development required

You get the idea.

Beyond Salesforce, WordPress also supports integrations with other enterprise CRMs—all without proprietary constraints limiting flexibility.

Not all integrations are created equal

A critical factor to consider is the depth of integration. Some CRM integrations are merely surface-level, offering basic data syncs without enabling full CRM functionality within the DXP. Others allow bidirectional syncs, workflow automation, embedded CRM features, and advanced customer segmentation.

When comparing Sitecore Connect + Salesforce Marketing Cloud with our WordPress VIP + Salesforce integration, even a quick evaluation shows the differences:

• WordPress VIP offers deeper functionality out of the box—businesses gain more CRM features immediately, without extensive development work.
• Lower upfront and ongoing costs—not just in terms of licensing fees but also in reduced maintenance, extension, and long-term scalability expenses.
• Greater flexibility—WordPress allows businesses to switch CRMs or expand integrations without being locked into a rigid ecosystem.

The long-term value of CRM integration in WordPress

Integrating an enterprise CRM into a digital platform is not just about initial setup; it’s about ensuring long-term efficiency, adaptability, and cost-effectiveness. Here’s why WordPress provides a superior approach:

• Cost savings: Lower integration fees, reduced development efforts, and no vendor lock-in result in significant financial savings.
• Scalability: Whether you start with a basic CRM setup or expand into advanced automation and AI-driven personalization, WordPress accommodates growth seamlessly.
• Ecosystem flexibility: Open-source flexibility ensures that businesses can integrate their preferred CRM, analytics, and marketing tools without restrictions.

For enterprises looking to integrate a robust CRM without the excessive cost and complexity of proprietary DXPs, WordPress as an open DXP is the clear answer.  With its extensive ecosystem, lower integration costs, and adaptable architecture, businesses gain greater control over their digital experiences—without sacrificing enterprise-grade capabilities.