Inventory Control Software

Inventory control software, found online, provides such features as volume pricing, discounts, multiple pricing levels, manufacturer lot tracking, and physical count adjustments, among others. Keeping track of the movement of goods, receipts, sales of goods and in-stock items can be accomplished with software programs that help to manage inventory. Many companies, that offer inventory management software online, provide optional modules to further enhance this program. Some options include additional accounting modules, keeping track of labor and production, purchasing, sales, and contact management software. Companies that have large inventories often find it useful to have automated programs that take care of all the ins and outs of keeping up with everything that has to do with moving inventory. Most programs offer multiple categories for item tracking and even allow for a breakdown of specifics such as color, size, style, and lot number.

Using a software program to maintain controls on goods in the warehouse can improve productivity, reduce paperwork, ensure adequate supplies, and track specific items. Inventory control software can usually generate and print barcodes if so desired. Using barcodes as a means to label products provides another automated way to keep a control on stock. Setting up an automatic reorder status on items low in stock will alert one that it is time to replenish goods. Tracking slow moving merchandise helps to reduce the risks of over ordering items that just aren't selling. Serial number control assigns a specific number to each item in inventory and can be used to track warranty work on specified merchandise. Inventory management software can also assign lot numbers for such items such as food or drugs and can link these types of numbers to invoices. This feature provides some security with any products that may be hazardous.

The type of program to choose will greatly depend on the products that are distributed. It is a really good idea to talk to a consultant before ordering software and go over with them the particulars on the type of products that are sold and the way they need to be tracked. Consider additional products that will enhance using inventory control software, such as an accounting program, where the inventory numbers can be automatically integrated into the system. There may be other considerations for purchasing software especially if there is an accounting program already in place. Do some research and see if there is an inventory control program that will work with the current system. Of course if the system already in place isn't working it may be time to invest in a totally new program.

Customized reports help tremendously when used through inventory management software programs. Reports provide owners and corporate officers with real time analyses on inventory concerns. A report may need to be generated to management that will assist with ways to figure out how to reduce stock. This report may need to show all slow moving items and decisions can be made from that on whether to continue carrying certain items. Cost verses selling price may need to be evaluated from time to time to ensure that the highest profits are realized, so a report will need to be generated showing the cost, selling price, and the difference. Before purchasing software ask about customized report features and take into consideration the type of reports that may need to be generated based upon company policies, procedures, and the needs of the owners and management. Make a smart purchase by praying first and asking the Lord for guidance and wisdom to find the right program that will enable a business to excel in every way possible. "That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him" (Ephesians 1:17).

Some companies offer a free trial period with the capability of downloading software and using it for a short period of time before making a purchase. Varied database options might include tracking specific projects and production, processing orders, or producing invoices and various reports. Other options with some inventory control software include publishing a product catalog for hard copy or to use on the Web. Consider the capability that some programs offer to take pictures of inventory items that include part numbers and the possibility of linking these pictures where desired. Some database features include customer details with a mailing list, complete with personal information and any other information that might be needed.

Sending email marketing campaigns is possible through some inventory management software packages. Using a customer database along with the information used from products from in stock will allow one to set up a promotion featuring items that need to be moved. By using an email newsletter or promotion these items can be linked to email correspondence and or used on a website to launch a discounted promotion, a great way to move slow moving stock. Make a list of the most important things that a package needs to include to meet the company's needs and do some research online before making a purchase.

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