The distribution landscape is one of the most complex and dynamic arenas in the modern economy. Supply chains, inventory management, customer demands, and the ever-changing world of technology ultimately will define the fate of distributors. Among these complexities, selecting an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system becomes not just a technological upgrade; it represents a strategic pivot that can delineate between adaptability and lack of progress.
Enter Infor CloudSuite Distribution — an emerging standout in the realm of ERP that has attracted the interest of numerous forward-looking distributors. In this deep-dive, we identify some of the core challenges facing distributors and why many companies are making the switch to Infor’s cloud-based ERP. From simplifying the supply chain to harnessing real-time data, we examine how Infor CloudSuite Distribution isn’t just a tool but rather a driving force for expansion and leadership within the industry.
The Modern Distributor’s Dilemma
The distributor’s role is inherently tied to the ebbs and flows of the market. Rising customer expectations, the need for 24/7 service, and the necessity for operational excellence have taken a toll on a distributors’ ability to adapt.
Distributors face a variety of complex challenges. With global competition, the distribution industry has become increasingly more difficult to stay on top. The supply chain has become more difficult to navigate its intricacies through a maze of suppliers, manufacturers, and customers. Many distributors also face data overload with an overwhelming amount of data and an inability to harness it effectively. Additional challenges to meet customer demands have many distributors just trying to survive in the marketplace. What have many found as the solution? A robust, agile ERP system that acts as the central nervous system, strengthening the distributor’s ability to respond and grow.
Infor CloudSuite Distribution is the Answer
The Infor CloudSuite Distribution solution offers a strong mix of features that address the very issues that keep distributors awake at night. It is designed to represent the agility and efficiency required to match the relentless pace of modern distributors. Let’s take a closer look at some core features and their benefits:
The Cloud Distribution Advantage
The shift towards cloud-based technology represents a new chapter for distributors. Cloud computing offers unparalleled scalability, cost-efficiency, and the ability to keep systems constantly updated without significant IT intervention. Infor’s established track record with cloud deployments positions CloudSuite Distribution as a frontrunner in the race for digital transformation.
The Path Forward
The choice to adopt Infor CloudSuite Distribution represents more than a technological upgrade. It’s a strategic imperative for distributors looking to have a competitive edge in the dynamic market. The platform’s suite of tools and its adherence to cloud best practices are a clear sign that Infor is not just watching the market; it’s shaping it.
For distributors at the crossroads of technology, agility, and growth, Infor CloudSuite Distribution is a beacon of transformation. By embracing this innovative ERP system, distributors can gain the leverage they need to not just survive the industry’s challenges but emerge as leaders in the field.
Connect with Aktion to discuss a customized solution for your business. Partner with us to revolutionize your business.
A Complete Platform for Distributors
In today’s ever evolving and competitive market, distributors face numerous challenges in streamlining their operations and staying ahead of the competition. From managing inventory to optimizing supply chain processes, there is a constant need for efficient solutions that can help business leaders meet the demands of their customers while keeping costs under control. That’s where an integrated platform comes into play – offering a comprehensive solution that addresses all key aspects of distribution management. In this blog post, we will delve into the benefits and features of Infor CloudSuite Distribution, a complete platform designed specifically for distributors to enhance productivity, profitability, and customer satisfaction. Powered by AWS, the leading cloud platform, Infor CSD provides industry-driven value, optimized applications, scalability, and resiliency. Whether you are an IT professional looking for the best technology solution or a CEO seeking growth opportunities for your business, this is one platform you do not want to miss!
The challenges faced by industrial distributors in managing their business
Distributors face numerous challenges in managing their business that can greatly affect their bottom line. From logistics and supply chain management to inventory tracking and customer service, there are many areas where problems can arise and cause disruption. To succeed in this industry, distributors must be able to adapt quickly to changing market conditions, stay up to date on emerging technologies, and develop efficient processes to minimize costs and enhance productivity. By leveraging powerful tools like data analytics and automation software, distributors can gain better insight into their operations and make more informed decisions that drive growth and profitability. With the right strategies in place and a strong focus on continuous improvement, even the most complex challenges can be overcome with ease.
Inventory management made easy with advanced tracking and real-time updates
Managing inventory can be a tedious and time-consuming task, but with advanced tracking and real-time updates, it doesn’t have to be. The latest inventory management tools make it easier than ever before to keep track of all your stock items, no matter how many you have. With real-time updates, you’ll know exactly what’s in stock and what needs to be reordered, so you can better plan your business processes. Whether you are a small business owner or manage a large warehouse, advanced inventory management software can help streamline your operations and save you time and money. With these powerful tools at your disposal, you can focus on growing your business, knowing that your inventory is always under control.
Order processing automation for faster and more accurate fulfillment
As businesses continue to adapt to an increasingly digital world, streamlining their order processing systems has become essential. With order processing automation, companies can significantly enhance the speed and accuracy of their order fulfillment process. By implementing software to automate tasks such as data entry, inventory management, and shipping, businesses can reduce the risk of errors and delays, while freeing up time for staff to focus on more critical tasks. With real-time order tracking and updates, businesses can also provide their customers with a better overall experience. The benefits of order processing automation are clear, offering businesses a smart investment that can help increase efficiency, accuracy, and customer satisfaction.
The Infor Operating Service (OS) seamlessly connects services to provide a robust integration framework so that your company can be flexible and agile in the cloud. It is a digital business platform with competitive advantages such as:
Your Back-office ERP Software is the backbone of our business. It should provide a foundation for growth and manage every aspect of your business. For more information, get ahold of Aktion Industry Expert Rob Dallas to see all the reasons why more distributors are moving to this distribution-focused, modern, and innovative platform.
The janitorial supply distribution industry is rapidly changing, with increased customer expectations and an ever-shifting marketplace. As a result, there has never been a better time for janitorial distribution vendors to upgrade their eCommerce platforms. In this blog post, we’ll explore the current challenges in the industry, the benefits of a modern eCommerce platform, and real-world examples of successful vendors who’ve embraced the future.
Challenges Facing Janitorial Distribution Vendors
The current state of the janitorial distribution industry is far from ideal. Vendors face several issues when it comes to selling their products online:
The Benefits of Upgrading eCommerce Platforms
How Modern ECommerce Platforms Address These Challenges
Upgrading a modern eCommerce platform can significantly improve the customer experience and enhance profitability. Here’s how:
The Time to Upgrade is Now: A Call-to-Action
For janitorial distribution vendors, investing in a modern eCommerce platform is essential to staying competitive in today’s market. Upgrading your system not only improves the customer experience but also bolsters profitability through increased sales and repeat business. Don’t get left behind – take the next step toward a more innovative, efficient, and profitable business model by upgrading your eCommerce platform today. So, it is time to embrace the future and take advantage of all that modern ecommerce has to offer. Don’t wait any longer – upgrade your eCommerce platform now!
In conclusion, the janitorial distribution industry is evolving rapidly, and vendors must keep up with changing customer expectations and marketplace realities. By upgrading to a modern eCommerce platform, vendors can overcome current challenges, improve the customer experience, and increase profitability. Don’t wait until it’s too late – make the switch to a modern eCommerce platform now! Your customers will thank you, and your business will thrive in this new era of janitorial distribution. So what are you waiting for? Upgrade today and secure a successful future for your business in the ever-growing world of eCommerce! Let’s embrace the future together and drive the janitorial distribution industry forward. It’s time for vendors to step up, stand out, and succeed in this competitive market. Upgrade your eCommerce platform now – your customers will thank you! So why wait? Upgrade today and secure a successful future for your business in the ever-growing world of eCommerce. The future is here, and it’s time for janitorial distribution vendors to make the most of it. Let’s embrace the future together and drive this industry forward with confidence and innovation! So don’t hesitate – upgrade your eCommerce platform today to see immediate results in customer satisfaction, sales growth, and overall business success. The opportunities are endless – seize them now.
In today’s digital age, the way we work has changed significantly. The new generation of digital natives, who have grown up with technology, want tools and systems that are user-friendly, have seamless integrations, and accessible from anywhere. This shift is why businesses are turning to cloud-based software to streamline their operations and stay competitive. Cloud-based software is user-friendly and supports the way the new generation likes to work. In this blog post, we will explore the four key benefits of Infor CloudSuite Distribution, the cloud-based software that makes growing your business in a digital age such an important asset.
Modern User Interface (UI)
One of the significant benefits of cloud-based software is its User Interface (UI). The modern UI makes the software easy to navigate, with colorful charts, graphs, and dashboards that make it easy to view and understand your data. If constructed properly, it can be highly intuitive and user-friendly. This ease of use encourages users to seek out more information and engage in the decision-making process actively.
Embedded Business Intelligence (BI)
Many cloud-based software interfaces allow businesses to leverage embedded Business Intelligence to extract insights from data. BI helps users make informed decisions and identify trends, making it easier to adapt to market changes and stay competitive. The data analysis and reporting capabilities of cloud-based systems are more effortless and faster than traditional methods, as the data is stored on the cloud and can be accessed in real-time.
Accessible from Any Device
Remote access is becoming the norm and cloud-based software allows users to access the system from any device with internet connectivity. This feature is vital for the new generation of the workforce as it eliminates the need to be tied to a desktop or office, providing users with the flexibility to work from any device.
Easy to Scale
Scalability is vital to manage changes in business needs. As businesses grow, need to add new users, and functionality, cloud-based software can easily be expanded to support those needs. This scalability reduces the overhead costs associated with purchasing and implementing new software.
In conclusion, with its modern UI, embedded BI, device accessibility, and scalability, cloud-based software, Infor CloudSuite Distribution provides businesses with the tools they need to stay competitive.
This platform particularly resonates with the new generation of workers who seek tools that make their jobs more accessible and efficient. Infor CloudSuite Distribution, with its intuitive interface and comprehensive capabilities, embodies this trend. By adopting such cloud-based software, businesses benefit from increased efficiency, greater productivity, and reduced costs. This is especially crucial for IT managers, CFOs, warehouse managers, and B2B businesses who are looking to streamline their operations and stay ahead of the competition. Infor CloudSuite Distribution, with its specialized focus on the distribution industry, offers a tailor-made solution that aligns with the dynamic needs of modern businesses.
B2B distribution is the backbone of global trade, responsible for connecting manufacturers with retailers, businesses with suppliers, and products with end-users. With the advent of digital technologies, evolving customer behaviors, and supply chain disruptions, the distribution industry must remain agile and adapt to stay competitive and grow sustainably.
Embracing Digital Transformation
The growth of the internet and digital technologies has transformed the way companies do business, and B2B distribution is no exception. Digitalization is causing distribution firms to rethink their processes, channels, and customer interactions to stay ahead. The adoption of eCommerce platforms, online marketplaces, and digital payments have enabled distributors to interact directly with their customers, bypassing intermediaries, and increasing their agility to changing market conditions.
Leading distribution companies are also embracing technologies such as big data analytics, cloud computing, AI, and IoT to automate processes, improve efficiency, and reduce costs in the supply chain. By implementing these innovations, distribution firms can identify new market opportunities, optimize their operations, and enhance their service delivery to meet changing customer needs.
“A lot of times, AI is demonstrable and scary, or seems like an ivory tower experience… What we need to do as distributors is empower people at the business level to understand AI. Not just the guy in the corner who writes code, but the director of marketing or inbound supply chain and anyone who makes operational decisions.” — Jimmy Dickinson, Vice President of Industry at NTT DATA Business Solutions
Aligning with Evolving Customer Behaviors
The modern customer is more informed, connected, and demanding than ever before. They expect a seamless and personalized experience across all channels, and distributors must align their strategies with this reality. Today’s customers want the flexibility to shop from anywhere, at any time, and with any device. Distribution firms need to provide a frictionless CX and align their offering with customers who seek convenience, efficiency, and speedy delivery.
In response to shifting demands, distributors need to cultivate robust digital capabilities, adopt new technologies, and forge robust partnerships to deliver a seamless ecosystem for customers. With the help of their suppliers and dedicated partners, distribution companies can work towards developing strong marketing strategies that attract new customers and retain current clients.
Ensuring Supply Chain Resilience
The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the importance of supply chain resilience, necessitating proactive measures by B2B distributors to safeguard their operations from disruptions. Supply chain disruptions can be caused by natural disasters, geopolitical events, and other unforeseen circumstances that can hamper the delivery of goods and services. The best way for distributors to minimize the impact of such disruptions is to diversify their supply chain, maintain contingency stocks, and collaborate with suppliers to develop a risk management plan.
Furthermore, distributors should utilize digital technologies to improve supply chain transparency, traceability, and accountability. By doing so, they can optimize inventory, track shipments, and ensure quality control for their customers, improving their overall service efficiency.
Conclusion:
The traditional B2B distribution model is facing significant challenges due to the impact of digital transformation, changing customer behaviors, and supply chain disruptions. Distributors need to anticipate these challenges and adjust to meet the dynamic demands of their customers. By embracing digital technologies, aligning with changing customer expectations, ensuring supply chain resilience, and focusing on sustainable growth, B2B distributors can remain competitive and grow sustainably in today’s dynamic business landscape. The key is to respond proactively to change and embrace transformation with an open mind, and open arms.
The world of wholesale distribution has undergone major changes in recent years. Thanks to the advent of game-changing technologies, the industry is no longer what it was. These technologies have disrupted the market and, in their wake, caused changes that have positively impacted the industry. And, as with any major change, the affected parties have been forced to adapt, both in terms of technology and business models.
Distributors are keenly aware that as we move into a more purely digital age the need to keep up with trends and technology is paramount to your success in the future. This post will examine a few of the trends that will be affecting the industry in the coming months and years.
Smart Analytics
Smart analytics is one technology that has transformed the distribution industry. It brings transformative efficiencies to business operations, and as a result, savings. By analyzing data with BI tools, distributors can identify their most profitable products, lead times, and shipping locations. This insight then enables optimization in logistical distribution, maximizing efficiency and revenue. Besides, the data can aid in forecasting demand and tailoring marketing efforts to specific customers, increasing their engagement and driving higher sales.
Dynamic Pricing
Dynamic pricing is another game-changer in the wholesale distribution industry. Instead of using fixed pricing models, dynamic pricing computes per-unit prices based on supply and demand metrics of the moment. It can lead to efficiency savings and increased profits when implemented effectively. A combination of factors such as high-demand locations, slow-moving stock, and underutilized warehouse space can all be addressed through smart dynamic pricing. This results in more significant sales volumes and increased profitability. By analyzing data and customer behavior, distributors can hone their pricing strategies.
Warehouse Optimization
Streamlining warehouse operations to save time is a transformative element in the optimization process. New and sophisticated warehouse management software systems automate key functions such as picking, packing, and shipping. AI and barcode scanning systems now align the data associated with a warehouse’s inbound and outbound movement, creating greater efficiency, and reducing the need for excess labor hours. It leaves a warehouse leaner and more efficient, with bigger profits and the possibility of expedited distribution timelines.
Mobile and Remote Working
The growing prevalence of telecommuting has arguably impacted the work culture more than any technology in recent years. The use of cloud-based tools and applications that enable remote work and real-time collaborations has revolutionized operations in diverse industries, including wholesale distribution. Storing data and accessing it anywhere and anytime, is simpler the longer the enterprise operates. Increased connectivity and the use of AI and machine learning make it even more efficient.
In recent years, revolutionary technologies have brought about a remarkable transformation in the distribution industry. Smart analytics, dynamic pricing, and warehouse optimization have led to more efficient business operations for distributors while generating exponential profitability. The ability to access data anywhere at any time has enabled remote work, making it possible for employees to work more efficiently and for distributors to operate lean and agile companies. These disruptive technologies are expected only to become more sophisticated and to continue revolutionizing various industries.
Success for distributors of the future will be the ones who appreciate the magnitude and importance of many of the disruptive forces the industry faces today and the courage to act decisively. We’ll take a deep-dive into the scalabiltiy, powerful analytics and customer-centric functionality of Infor CloudSuite Distribution.
On February 14th at 12:00 pm EST, join Aktion’s Rob Dallas to see why Infor CloudSuite Distribution is tailor-made for your business. Click the link to register and reserve your spot today.
Customers have access to more information than ever before, and it’s become paramount for industry leaders to be ahead of the curve when evaluating solutions to the ever-changing dynamics of customer loyalty, strategic decision-making, and interactions across both traditional and digital channels.
Hosted by Aktion’s Rob Dallas, we invite you to join us for our April 9th webinar to learn why more and more distributors are making the move to Infor CloudSuite Distribution.
QuickBooks has served as a reliable accounting software for your organization. However, as your business continues to grow and evolve, it’s essential to evaluate whether your current tools are equipped to support your expanding needs. It’s time to move to Infor CloudSuite Distribution.
Join Rob Dallas, Aktion Expert and learn why this advanced cloud-based service can reinvigorate your business and grow your market share.
According to Indian River Consulting Group’s Mike Marks and MDM CEO Tom Gale, “the traditional Distributors are Gen-1 and the distributors who have embraced new technologies can be described as Gen-2 or Next Gen. Most Gen-1 or traditional distributors only make changes when they absolutely need to, while those Next-Gen distributors make that decision because they see an opportunity to reach a better position in their industry.”
If you identify as a Next Gen Distributor you are likely evaluating the systems and processes that are limiting your growth. If replacing your ERP is part of the transformation, then the next step is to review the functionality and platform that will be most important to your future.
Top 5 benefits of industry cloud
Deciding and investing in a new ERP, if done right, can provide rewards for years to come. This journey provides a way to step forward and compete with other Next Gen distributors in their industry. Is the time right for your organization?
To speak with someone from the Aktion team, please follow the link and email us at info@aktion.com