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Choosing the right system for you

They’re everywhere in the aftermarket now. Apps, software, programs, each claiming to be the “best” system on the market. Granted, some of these may perform better than others; what it comes down to is what you need for your business and what can make your day-to-day operations easier.

Comparing the market:

When it comes to picking out new software or system to manage customers, organize your inventory, or run your warehouse, it’s natural to want to shop around and find the best fit for your needs. Depending on the operation you run and what you are trying to improve, some software solutions may be more agreeable to your business. A hosted system focusing on a few tasks may serve you best for those who work in-house day in and day out. If you want to stay in the know of your stores’ ins and outs on a daily basis, a cloud platform may be the better solution so you can check in from anywhere.

Inventory Control:

Anyone who has had any experience in a warehouse or distribution center can tell you: keeping inventory counts accurate is a nightmare. Utilizing software to help track when and where parts are moving helps immensely, but the functionality can have its limits. Some may track when a part enters and leaves the location, giving you an accurate count of what is on hand, but without helping your team keep track of each physical location. Others are more mobile and allow for updates and tracking for every step of the inventory process. Ordering/receiving/stocking/pulling/fulfilment/delivery. To be totally in control, you need a system that can monitor everything. You need to know where your parts are coming from, where they should be stored, and give your team the access they need to sort appropriately.

Warehouse Management:

Managing your parts is a massive part of the business, but so is managing your locations. With the right software, everything from keeping track of employee hours to point of sale will be monitored and pushed to quantifiable numbers. What is essential to look for with this functionality is integration with other facets of your business. By importing data from the sales and operations side and comparing it with inventory numbers and adjustments, it is easy to tell who is selling, when parts are selling, and if there are any issues with the line. Integrating your operations with cloud software will give you this data at a moment’s notice and make it simple to read.

Data clarity:

Looking at the value of an auto part is pretty cut and dry. You see your cost, your profit, and the performance of each line. This should apply to how the part performs as well. Quality reporting will provide you with the information you need to tell how a part is performing. Identify if it is selling well, returned frequently, or has a high defect rate eating up your capital. By having an integrated system, you can tell all of this and more at a glance and make the most informed decision when it comes to purchasing inventory and stocking your shelves.

All in one:

Operating within the aftermarket is much like working on a vehicle. Each department represents a different system, and they need to be in sync to get the optimum results. Having universal software that keeps communication open between each department will allow you to run most efficiently. 

Wondering if the cloud is the right choice for your business? Experience it for yourself by taking a test drive!