# Project: Custom CRM

**Status:** Future — Do NOT build yet. Keep HubSpot for Phase 1.
**Priority:** Low (revisit Month 4-6)
**Owner:** Devin (Delivery Ops) for build, Rene (R&D) for architecture research

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## Why

HubSpot is the current CRM but introduces external dependency, API rate limits, and costs that scale with usage. A custom CRM built for AI agent operation could:

1. **Reduce external dependencies** — no HubSpot API limits, no vendor lock-in
2. **Be fully modular** — designed around LeadsPanther's specific pipeline stages and automation patterns
3. **AI-agent-native** — built with agent read/write in mind from day one (not retrofitted)
4. **Sellable as SaaS** — once proven internally, offer as a standalone product for other AI-first businesses

## Cons

- **Development time** — significant engineering effort to build, test, and migrate
- **Maintenance burden** — we'd own all bugs, security, and scaling
- **Feature gap** — HubSpot has 15+ years of CRM features; our v1 would be minimal

## Prerequisites Before Starting

- [ ] HubSpot limitations are actively blocking operations (rate limits, missing features, cost)
- [ ] $5K+ MRR achieved (can afford the engineering investment)
- [ ] Clear spec from 3+ client engagements showing what CRM features matter most
- [ ] Architecture review by Rene completed

## MVP Scope (When Ready)

- Contact/company management with custom fields
- Pipeline stages with drag-and-drop
- Automation rules (lead assignment, status changes, notifications)
- API-first design (agents interact via REST/GraphQL, not UI)
- Telegram/Slack notifications on deal state changes
- Import/export (CSV, HubSpot migration)
- Basic reporting (pipeline value, conversion rates, deal velocity)

## Tech Stack (Proposed)

- Next.js + Supabase (consistent with existing projects)
- Row-level security for multi-tenant support
- Real-time subscriptions for agent notifications
- Deployed at crm.leadspanther.com (subdomain MVP model)

## Revenue Potential

If sold as SaaS to other AI-first businesses:
- $29/mo starter, $79/mo pro, $199/mo enterprise
- Target: 50 subscribers at $79/mo = ~$4K MRR
- Differentiation: only CRM designed for autonomous AI agent workflows