Deciding between a customized inventory management system or the off-the-shelf version is not a simple task.
Out-of-the-box systems are broad and meet the needs of as many as they can. But, that doesn’t mean the system has what you need for your core processes. Settling for a mediocre solution that isn’t a good fit can end up being more costly for your business. Remember, an off-the-shelf system may not have all the functions you need to operate efficiently. On the other hand, you can alter customizable systems to fit your operations. Thus, you will ensure that your system will improve your processes, decrease inventory costs, and maximize profits.
Here are five reasons why you should choose customized inventory management:
Easy Integrations
These flexible systems can mold to your needs, including any software integrations you might need. In contrast, these integrations are rare for out-of-the-box systems. If they do, integrations are limited to a few select programs. Why limit yourself when you don’t have to?
Suits your business
Let’s not forget that these systems are made to suit your unique business processes. Meeting all of your specific needs will give you total control over your inventory.
Also, customized software is easier to use. You can rid of any features you don’t need that clutter off-the-shelf systems. An intuitive system will make navigation quicker for new users and training less strenuous. Users can easily find what they need, when they need it.
When you customize your software, you will be working with a team who will learn the ins and outs of your operations. This will ensure that the system they build is a perfect fit. Also, when you need support the developers are already familiar with your organization.
Here is an example of how Clear Spider’s customized inventory solution can be tailored to specific business processes.
This is one of the many possibilities for the customization of your inventory management system.
More Profitable
A custom system can increase profits, since your inventory processes will be maximizing efficiency and performance. Your operations will be quicker and less error-prone, giving you an advantage over your competition. These systems may be more costly to start, but they will pay off in the long run.
Off-the-shelf inventory systems can’t grow with your business. Generally, they also can’t adapt to new business processes. If they do, it will be very pricey to add this. Custom software may be more expensive upfront, but it’s a huge cost saving in the long term.
Improve Customer Relationships
You can be sure that your system is in sync with all of your operations. Custom software means less mistakes, more control, and greater visibility. Customers will receive their orders faster and on-time. As a result, your company will stand out against its competitors. Replenishing your stock quickly and reliably will build trust and loyalty with your customers. Not to mention streamlining your operations will lower your production costs, making your products cheaper for your customers to purchase.
Heightened Security
Customized software is designed to help your business ward off security threats. Out-of-the-box systems have generic security measures that may not be enough to protect your data.
In addition, a customized inventory management system can give different users different levels of access. Let’s say that your supplier only ships goods to three locations. You can make their access to the system solely for those locations. Everybody will have only what they need. This gives others visibility into your system without compromising the security. Out-of-the-box systems may do a generic version of this, but they will not be adaptable to your specific needs. For example, customized software could even restrict access based on employee job description.
Find how Clear Spider’s flexible inventory management system can mold to fit your business.
