In today’s dynamic distribution landscape, companies strive to streamline operations, improve visibility across the supply chain, and exceed customer expectations. Achieving these goals can be challenging with disconnected software systems and manual processes. This is where NetSuite’s cloud-based enterprise resource planning (ERP) system can help, with powerful modules designed to help distributors scale efficiently. NetSuite, now part of Oracle, combined modules for financials, inventory management, e-commerce, and warehouse and fulfillment to customize ERP for distributors.
In this article, we’ll highlight real-world examples of how companies gained efficiencies using NetSuite Wholesale Distribution, along with key features to review.
Streamlined Operations & Reduced IT Infrastructure Costs
Imagine a scenario where your sales, warehouse, and accounting teams are all working from the same centralized system. By consolidating disconnected software applications, NetSuite can bring teams together in a single platform. This can streamline workflows significantly, as exemplified by a wholesale electronics distributor who replaced a few disparate on-premises systems with NetSuite. As a result, the company improved its order processing time and reduced its IT maintenance costs.
Improved Visibility & Real-Time Insights
NetSuite can provide a real-time view of your business, from inventory levels and financials to customer interactions. A building materials distributor, for instance, leveraged NetSuite to gain greater visibility into its inventory and sales data. This newfound transparency helped it identify overstocked and understocked items, reprioritize its purchasing decisions, and improve profitability.
Enhanced Customer Satisfaction
In a competitive market, meeting and exceeding customer expectations is crucial. NetSuite ERP modules can equip you with the tools to enhance customer satisfaction. For example, the system streamlines order fulfillment by connecting inventory management and omnichannel commerce functionalities. As an example, an auto parts distributor implemented NetSuite and significantly improved its on-time delivery rates. This not only satisfied its customers but also helped strengthen its brand reputation.
ERP for Distributors: Key Features to Review
Beyond basic ERP and accounting functionality, take into consideration any built-in tools that can specifically address the unique challenges faced by distributors, such as:
- Omnichannel Commerce: Streamlining the customer experience seamlessly across multiple channels, whether it’s in an e-commerce platform, a mobile app, or a traditional brick-and-mortar store.
- Powerful Inventory Management: Improve stock levels, reduce carrying costs, and increase on-time deliveries with advanced forecasting and warehouse management tools.
- Integrated Financial Management: Streamline accounting processes with a built-in general ledger, accounts payable and receivable modules, and robust financial reporting capabilities.
- Real-Time Analytics: Gain valuable insights into customer behavior and leverage targeted marketing campaigns to help drive sales and expand your market reach.
How FORVIS Can Help
Implementing or updating an ERP system can be a complex undertaking. ERP for distributors has nuances that should be addressed at the start of the project to help deliver desired outcomes. Our team of experienced technology and industry professionals can assist you throughout your journey.
Business Technology Solutions at FORVIS provides ERP and customer relationship management platform analysis, design, implementation, upgrade, training, and support services. We are a certified Oracle NetSuite partner offering software licensing, implementation, integration, and consulting services, in addition to two premier program options:
- NetSuite Solution Provider – Helping your business get up and running with its own suite of NetSuite modules
- NetSuite Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) – Helping fast-growing startups and small and midsize organizations supercharge their business management with outsourcing services
Connect with us today to learn more.