What level of Zoho Desk expertise do I need for basic helpdesk setup versus advanced automation?
Basic setup requires intermediate skills - someone who can configure departments, agents, and simple workflows. Advanced automation with complex SLA rules, multi-brand support, and custom integrations needs an expert who understands workflow logic and has experience with similar implementations.
How can I tell if someone actually knows Zoho Desk well versus just listing it on their resume?
Ask them to walk through setting up automated ticket routing or explain how they'd handle SLA escalations. Real experts will discuss workflow strategy and ask about your current support process before suggesting solutions. They should also mention specific features like agent collision detection or custom field limitations.
Can Zoho Desk handle complex enterprise requirements or is it mainly for small businesses?
Zoho Desk works well for mid-market companies but has limitations for large enterprises. It handles multi-brand support, advanced automation, and integrations effectively, but lacks some enterprise features like advanced customization, complex approval workflows, and extensive API capabilities that larger organizations might need.
How well does Zoho Desk integrate with non-Zoho tools we're already using?
Zoho Desk integrates well with popular business tools like Slack, Salesforce, Shopify, and Google Workspace through native integrations and Zapier. However, it works best when you're using other Zoho products. If your entire tech stack is non-Zoho, you might face more integration challenges than with platforms like Zendesk.
How long does it typically take to set up Zoho Desk and migrate from our current system?
Basic setup takes 1-2 weeks for configuration and agent training. Data migration from another helpdesk platform typically adds another 1-2 weeks depending on data volume and complexity. Full workflow optimization and automation setup can take 4-6 weeks total for most businesses.
What kind of ongoing maintenance does Zoho Desk require after initial setup?
Expect monthly review of automation rules and SLA performance, quarterly reporting analysis, and occasional workflow adjustments as your business grows. Most businesses need 2-4 hours monthly for maintenance, plus additional time for major changes like adding new departments or integration updates.