For any small to midsize business-to-business (B2B) company being able to obtain, organize and analyze data with B2B software is crucial to business and customer insight.
It allows companies to make timely and fact-based decisions, such as identifying inefficiencies and the need to make labor or workflow changes or scaling the organization because of increased performance.
So, what is B2B software and why do you need it? Let’s find out.
What is B2B software?
B2B software is a cloud-based software (usually a desktop tool and/or mobile app) that businesses (i.e. wholesale distributors or manufacturers) use for accounting, customer relationship management (CRM), Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), marketing, sales, inventory, distribution, deliveries, merchandising and more.
Why do small to midsize businesses need B2B software?
For small to midsize wholesale distributors or manufacturers, staying ahead of the competition means providing competitive pricing, product availability, and quick delivery.
Business goals, which can only be achieved through operational and sales efficiency, keeping costs low and increasing revenue.
The tools and business intelligence needed to ensure you meet these business goals all come from B2B software solutions you integrate with your business.
Integrating the right software solution can help your business:
Saves Time by Automating Sales Processes
Imagine your presales or direct store delivery (DSD) sales reps struggling to take orders in the field because they need to call or text in the order, then the customer receives the wrong order because the quantity was texted incorrectly. These errors lead to wasted time and unsatisfied customers. Does this sound familiar?
The solution to this struggle is B2B software, such as the OIS Basic App, a cloud-based mobile app for sales order taking, that can be easily downloaded to a smartphone or handheld device, so your reps are ready to sell anytime, anywhere.
According to a McKinsey and Company study, more than 30% of sales-related activities can be automated.
Save time by automating the sales process with a B2B sales app.
Reps can place sales orders quickly and accurately right from their smartphone, using a barcode scan for desired products, enter the quantity and hit send. The order is processed in real-time so your main offices can start the packing and delivery process immediately.
Using a mobile application is a no-brainer for companies that want to save time and keep their reps selling.
Increased Efficiency with a Multi-channel Operation
Integrating a B2B software solution, for your sales order process, warehouse and inventory management and delivery workflows helps increase efficiency in your business as a whole.
You get a full 360-degree view of your business, from the data collected through various channels that help you correct productivity inefficiencies, leading to lower operation costs which can trickle down to your customer pricing, keeping your business competitive in the marketplace.
Your efficiency leads to better customer satisfaction as B2B customers, such as retail stores, deli’s, bodegas or restaurants are receiving their orders on time and at fair prices.
Allows for Scalability
As new or existing B2B companies begin to scale their organization, increasing buyers, delivery or facilities it is important to have B2B software that can manage the demands of a growing infrastructure.
This is the biggest benefit to using B2B software, as your business grows, the data collected continually provides insight for your future business goals.
So now that you know why you need business to business software, let’s discuss pricing.
How much does B2B software cost?
The cost will depend on the provider and features that fit your business needs.
But don’t worry, there are many affordable options for small to midsize businesses, it’s all a matter of doing your research.
Many B2B software companies provide customized pricing, which is convenient because one app can’t fit all businesses.
Remember, I understand cost is a factor when making any business decision but what’s even more important is to choose a B2B software automation solution that fits with your business and makes it easier to serve your customers.
Orders in Seconds (OIS) is a mobile software solution company for wholesales distributors and manufacturers. We provide exceptional customer service, the very best technology to fit your needs at an affordable rate. We understand the challenges faced by B2Bs with the sales order management and automation process and provide a mobile sales application (OIS Basic) that helps your business stay competitive in the ever-changing marketplace. Schedule a free demo today.
