ERP Software

Distribution ERP Software

ERP, which stands for Enterprise Resource Planning, is a software application with the goal of coordinating all of a company's business activities around one information system. For companies operating in wholesale distribution environments, Distribution ERP Software functionality will necessarily form the center of any ERP evaluation assignment.

It is true that almost every ERP software solution has distribution software functionality, yet not all of these systems are able to offer features robust enough to handle complex distribution channels. Wholesale distribution companies are affected by software functionality that focuses on maintaining optimal inventory levels. This makes strong front office functionality available for customer service workers by facilitating a quick movement of goods. It also allows for adaptable delivery reporting for management.

Distribution ERP Software needs to offer more than the traditional features of ERP solutions. When selecting ERP software, distribution companies are going to look for advanced features such as fully-integrated CRM functionality, a complete warehouse management system, strong financials, and assembly capabilities for light manufacturing. More than that, numerous wholesale distributor companies will additionally need robust supply chain management capabilities that can manage advanced planning, merchandise importing, and distribution requirements planning for centralized purchasing environments, as well as multi-warehouse distribution channels.

A company that focuses on Distribution ERP Software for mid to large size companies is IBS. This software vendor has been in business for over thirty years helping the wholesale distribution market. IBS Enterprise is the main package they market to companies.  It supports the entire distribution process from inventory planning, purchasing, and supplier management –all the way through warehouse optimization, value-added services, demand management, and returns processing.

There are two separate strong points that IBS emphasizes in particular. IBS Enterprise can help distributors in varied industries that require distribution.  These include automotive, electrical, food and beverage, paper, and packaging, pharmaceutical, and publishing. According to IBS executives, these vertical-specific functionalities result in a distribution software solution that is superior to what the Tier I ERP vendors offer –and the cost is less.  The second unique asset offered by IBS is the rebate and discount functionality. Their customer rebate system fully automates all of the processes required to deliver an accurate and integrated rebate capability.  This lessens administration expenses, minimizes costly errors, and tracks expected rebate costs all of which go far to making a customer feel satisfied.  And, as every distributor company knows, a satisfied customer will be a repeat customer.

Written by :

Amy Cruz