Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software has many benefits for distributors. In this challenging business, ERP system brings together and streamlines financial management, sales, HR and inventory, supply chain and customer relationship management processes. Distributors who use ERP, such as Acumatica Distribution Edition, benefit from the platform’s placement of diverse operating data into a single database. Employees typically work more productively as a result. However, boosting efficiency is just one benefit; an ERP can help distributors solve a variety of other challenges, including:
Challenge 1: Inventory/Stock Management
Ending up with excess inventory, low inventory, or a complete stock-out is detrimental to any distributing business. Distributors rely on consumers to maintain an average sell rate. A variety of factors can affect this, including economic conditions. Supply chain management issues can affect a company’s profit margin. An ERP system mitigates this problem with an integrated warehouse management system (WMS) that can automate a variety of operations.
Acumatica’s Cloud ERP solution:
Acumatica incorporates a WMS that streamlines distribution processes. It helps with inventory management, receiving and order fulfillment. At the same time, integration with barcode scanners and mobile devices help improve process efficiency, reduce costs and increase customer satisfaction. A WMS can aid in physical inventory counts, picking, compliance labeling and other key tasks.
In addition, Acumatica provides advanced inventory management with real-time access to in-stock and in-transit inventory, reorder quantities and inventory costs. It provides a view into inventory sub-items, bin locations and expiration dates. Distribution companies can use the software to manage multiple warehouses simultaneously.
Challenge 2: Importing/Exporting
In recent years, manufacturers have been moving facilities back to the United States to address the cost concerns associated with overseas production and importing goods. Operating domestically can help businesses consolidate the supply chain and reduce shipping costs, but making such a move has challenges. Without a clear view into financials, shipments, inventory and manufacturing processes, it can be difficult to remain cost effective.
Acumatica’s Cloud ERP solution:
An ERP solution provides full visibility into these metrics from a single location. No matter how complex your business and its processes are, Acumatica provides financial management (with sub-account support and automatic revenue recognition) and simplifies complex distribution processes, even for businesses with multiple products and suppliers. Order fulfillment, purchase management and quote generation can be managed to meet both internal and customer needs.
Challenge 3: Data Error/Redundancy
When different software applications are used, there is a high risk of human error and data repetition, which can make a distribution business inefficient. Re-entering data can take up time and interfere with important processes and revenue-generating opportunities. Repetitive information can cause confusion, increase order times and disrupt materials purchasing and order fulfillment.
Acumatica’s Cloud ERP solution:
An ERP like Acumatica provides complete visibility into a distribution business, its procedures and operations. Acumatica stores data centrally. Accessible via a web browser, it presents information that’s updated in real time. Real-time profitability can be viewed by warehouse down to individual product lines and locations. You can therefore control costs across the supply chain and automate everything from sales orders to the entire purchasing process.
To learn more about Acumatica and how we can help you realize its potential in your business, contact us or register for an Acumatica demo.
Additional Distribution ERP Resources
Best Practices for Implementing Distribution ERP Software
How Distribution Firms Can Use KPIs to Improve Performance and Grow