Knowledge is a valuable asset for Distribution CEOs, as accurate real-time data will help them understand their core business processes and make informed decisions. Every function of a distribution company, such as IT, operations, and finance, will generate large quantities of data that must be leveraged.
If companies can integrate this data successfully, it can drive decision-making and create synergy and collaboration throughout their entire supply chain. This is where an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) solution comes into play. ERP helps to develop integrated processes that allow for readily available and actionable data. However, CEOs need to be aware of several things before implementing an ERP program into their organization. Here are some key questions you should be able to answer before committing to an ERP software solution:
What Features Do I Need?
Since the landscape of the distribution industry is rapidly changing, it has become imperative that distributors find a way to meet demands and provide value-added customer service to remain competitive. This calls for a specialized ERP solution that meets the distribution sector’s business requirements. Some essential features that a CEO must be on the lookout for include:
- Logistics Management
- Order Management
- Inventory Management
- Supplier Management
- Business Intelligence
- Analytics
- Integration Functionality with existing platforms
Does Your Solution Have EDI?
Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) lets businesses replace paper-based documents by providing a way to exchange documents in a standard electronic format. EDI thus allows businesses to save time and eliminate costly errors by moving information from one computer application to another. You can reap many business benefits by choosing an ERP software solution with built-in EDI functionality, such as:
- Improved efficiency and accuracy
- Increased opportunities for entering new markets
- Optimized supply chain management
- Enhanced business strategies
Will I Know the Inventory Status in Real-time?
If you can see what is happening in your business, you can forecast effectively and respond to change more efficiently. To better understand your profit margins for decision-making, it is crucial to have an ERP solution that provides real-time inventory control. This can be achieved when the ERP software offers real-time, accurate profit reporting. Before investing in Distribution ERP solutions, ensure that your partner gives you a way to get centralized, actionable information in real-time quickly.
Do You Have On-premise or Cloud Solutions, or Both?
It should be up to you to decide how you would like to run your solution. Some businesses may run their ERP software in the cloud, while others might prefer running it on their partner’s data center or their own infrastructure. The freedom to choose will be a major selling point as it gives you added flexibility. Be sure to ask your partner which of the above options they offer.
How Involved Will You Be in the Implementation Process and Do You Offer Ongoing Training?
Finding a supplier that will help you implement the ERP software of your choice is crucial, but successful implementation is just one step of the process. To ensure ongoing success, your supplier must also provide you with ongoing maintenance, training, and support. Ask your implementation partner about the training resources and support options that you will have. There are also several different ways that training can be administered, such as remote, on-site, and classroom training. Make sure that you find the best possible training option for your employees.
How Can Sage X3 Help My Business?
SAGE X3 ERP offers businesses a way to have an industry-specific, customizable ERP solution. You can conquer your distribution challenges effectively using SAGE X3.
SAGEX3 offers distribution companies:
- Financial management capabilities
- Integrated, industry-specific operations in real-time
- Extended functionality for multichannel retailers and direct marketers
- Built-in warehouse management functionality
- Global sourcing, importing/exporting, and inventory management
- Real-time monitoring and inventory optimization
- Native mobile apps for sales and purchasing
Panni Management develops innovative enterprise systems that help clients reach their business goals in a variety of industries. Our goal is to make their manufacturing and distribution systems more efficient and profitable. We offer a customizable, powerful ERP software package. For more information, please contact us.
