<i><p></p></i><p><i></i></p><p><b>Developers are increasingly using IT systems and the latest software programmes to streamline their businesses, manage their accounts and improve customer service. Stephen Hoare finds out just what technology savvy housebuilders are up to</b><br><b>From site survey and geographic information systems (GIS) to computer-aided design, housebuilders are adopting a growing range of specialist IT products. The technology exists to simplify the planning process, improve communications, control costs and much more besides. </b><br> At the cutting edge, Linden Homes has developed its own customer relationship management (CRM) software - a concept used by banks and supermarket chains to cement brand loyalty. Group marketing director Gerard price explains: &amp;“If someone inquires about one of our sites we want to capture that information on a database and track the customer in order to ensure their purchase and our after sales service runs smoothly. If they don&amp;’t buy at the time then we might have other developments we can show them.&amp;” Invites to launch events or mailings can follow but only if the customer wants to keep receiving information. Allied to a highly interactive web site which will be re-launched at the end of June, Linden Homes is ready for e-business. </p><p>The company is also …