How should the System Administrator configure Salesforce for a new complex sales process?

Creating a sales process and Opportunity record type for each product line is a strategic approach to configuring Salesforce for a complex sales process. This method allows for tailored workflows and guidelines that align with the specific needs of different product lines. By defining a unique sales process and corresponding Opportunity record type for each category, the System Administrator can ensure that the sales team follows the appropriate steps and utilizes the relevant fields that are pertinent to each product line.

This customization supports varied sales methodologies and customer interactions, which can be crucial for organizations with diverse offerings. For example, different products might have unique qualifiers, stages, and closing strategies, and having distinct record types facilitates the accurate tracking and reporting of opportunities within each distinct process. This configuration aids in clarity for sales representatives and aligns with the individual sales strategies associated with each product line, ultimately leading to more efficient and effective sales operations.

The other options, while potentially useful in different scenarios, do not directly address the need for distinct sales processes tied to product lines as thoroughly as creating specific sales processes and record types.