According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary distribution is the act of giving out or delivering. When using the term as it relates to a manufacturing business, however, the act of delivering goods, or distribution, does not take place independently of other business functions. Distribution touches upon countless other details because distributors have to link their efforts with other departments, such as: purchasing and procurement, inventory, logistics, scheduling, planning, and accounting.

ERP Software

ERP Distribution Software

While it is true that almost every ERP software solution has some distribution software functionality, not all these systems are able to offer features robust enough to handle complex distribution channels. In point of fact, research has shown that the best way to link these disparate departments is through the use of ERP (enterprise resource planning) Distribution Software.

ERP Distribution Software offers many more features than those traditionally bound to ERP solutions. When selecting ERP software, distribution companies are going to look for advanced features such as a complete warehouse management system, strong financials, fully-integrated CRM functionality, and assembly capabilities for light manufacturing. More than that, most distributor companies will also require robust supply chain management capabilities that can organized and manage advanced planning, merchandise importing, and distribution requirements planning for centralized purchasing environments, along with multi-warehouse distribution channels.

Well designed ERP Distribution Software has the ability to securely store all the necessary data to monitor all these activities, making proper adjustments accordingly in order to manage and control all the processes of production and distribution.

ERP Distribution Software offers significant benefits to companies in the business of transporting finished goods. With distribution software solutions in place, companies gain a competitive edge by improving profitability. This is accomplished with a robust and scalable set of distribution management tools that optimize inventories, reduce costs, and maintain the highest levels of customer service.  Together, this leads to a more streamlined operation managed in a way to run more efficiently and successfully.

A proven way for a distributing business to cut waste and increase profit is to implement ERP Distribution Software. These solutions are powerful, feature-rich applications that have been designed to improve all aspects of the entire transportation and delivery chain. Often offered as an integrated component of many enterprise resource planning packages, it can also be purchased as a stand-alone application.  In both cases, distribution software provides full support for all related functions, including sourcing, routing, order processing, warehouse management, inventory monitoring, and delivery tracking.

Written by :

kristine H