Does Your Business Need Distribution Software?

For every business need, there is software. And while software platforms generally make business owners’ lives easier, the vast selection can sometimes be confusing.

This is especially true for distributors and wholesalers. The various types of software platforms address several issues, but many of them may be unnecessary for your business’ specific needs.

This is why a thorough look at what’s available can help you choose the best software.

This is the most essential software for distributors. A robust warehouse management system (WMS) keeps track of stock levels automatically, enabling inventory optimization and managing orders with minimal input from you.

Although product lifecycle management (PLM) platforms were initially developed for manufacturers, some distributors may find it useful as well.

Supplier relationship management (SRM) software are thoroughly useful for distributors. You can keep track of all your orders, stock levels, and calculate lead times (the amount of time that passes between the placing of an order and the arrival of the shipment).

Robust SRM platforms can even help distributors calculate optimal order quantities, negotiate bulk discounts, and diminish carriage costs.

Smaller distributors that work with only a handful of suppliers may not use the full potential of an SRM platform. However, if you juggle various orders from multiple suppliers at any point in time, an SRM software could make your life a lot easier.

Just like an SRM does with suppliers, customer relationship management (CRM) software keeps all your customer interactions organized.

CRM platforms are a tremendous help in managing your supply chain. Orders, invoicing, returns, and any other customer-related issues are neatly organized by your software.

The platform keeps you up-to-date on your stock levels and helps create a seamless customer experience for your clients.

Whichever solution you go for, bear in mind that you don’t necessarily need the shiniest, most expensive software. Choose the platform(s) that will best serve your business’ specific needs.

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