ERP Software

Distribution Software

The purpose of Distribution Software is to administer every function of a manufacturing business. This can include: order processing, inventory control, purchasing, customer service, supply chain management, sales, customer relationship management, and finance management. Distribution Software provides businesses with real-time information at every check point in the supply chain for every order.

There are many different types of distribution software that are available. For a particular business to choose the best software, the first, important step is to analyze the business: taking a look at systems that might already be in place and deciding which functions need to be improved. It is important to note that implementation of distribution software often means some existing systems will have to be replaced.

After such an analysis, different businesses will find they have varying needs. Still there are some basic functions that almost every business looks for, such as for example, Order Management. Managing orders is a very important aspect of a business, but it can be tedious and time consuming. Distribution software provides companies with ways to streamline this process by reducing order entry time and duplication of effort.

Warehouse Management includes shipping management, storage (container, pallet, sku, and space) functions, inventory tracking features, and even stocking features. A well organized warehouse is key to a manufacturing company, especially if a high volume of goods is typically being sent and received. Efficiency in the warehouse can save money by reducing labor, storage, and transport costs.  This is accomplished with a solution that automates data entry while eliminating errors from the supply chain.

Another key function of good Distribution Software is inventory management. Inventory Management oversees a business’ inventory from ordering, delivery, storage, sales, all the way until the final delivery to customers. It is essential this data be centralized and made accessible across the business departments in order to keep inventory at the right level –having enough on hand to fill orders, but not having too much.

Customer Service is part of Distribution Software, too and should comprise some form of centralized pricing, order management, and sales force interaction. A business that offers goods directly to end customers, definitely needs customer support functions.

And the last common denominator for Distribution Software packages is an application for financial management. This accounting functionality is useful because distribution software will take in a number of departments within a business, and the software permits the company to keep all its accounts in a real time, centralized location without the need for much labor-intensive intervention.

Written by :

tracey boxer