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  • Selecting Inventory Management Software
Technology Articles > Software > Business > Selecting Inventory Management Software

Stock management is the backbone of any retail operation. Keeping tabs on inventory is the only way to avoid loss, theft, and other mishaps. Stock management software can help you keep your inventory organized efficiently. There are many different stock management programs available, though some may be better suited to your needs than others.

Desktop or Web Based?

One of the first things that you’ll have to consider is whether to purchase a desktop program or a web based program. The main difference is that a desktop program does not rely on an Internet connection. On the other hand, a web based program cannot function without a reliable web connection.

Many desktop programs claim to be easier to use than web-based programs. However, this is not necessarily the case. If you have a fast and reliable Internet connection, you can use a web based program simply and easily. Of course, you run the risk of a website not working when you need it if you choose a web-based program. If you are using dial-up, a desktop program is probably your best bet.

Features to Look For

Stock management software should include a number of different inventory options. You should be able to track inventory, create lists, and add different pricing with ease. Other important features include calendar options, customer tracking, report generation, and expense recording.

It is also vital that you find a program with a number of useful tools. Tools that make keeping track of your stock easier will, in turn, make your life easier. Calculators, measurement conversion tools, exchange rate functions, and payment tabulators all make keeping track of stock easier. Typically, stock management software that is more expensive includes all of these valuable tools.

User-Ease

There are few things more frustrating than purchasing a product you can’t use. Many software products do not come with help manuals or instructions. These products are fine if you know what you are doing (and you have a good amount of patience). Otherwise, it pays to read user reviews of every product you are considering. A good inventory management program should come with help bubbles, a set-up wizard, and an online or offline help center.

Pricing

Price is always a factor, though top software isn’t always expensive. Still, before you begin shopping for stock management software, think about how much you want to spend. Since keeping track of your inventory is important, you should allot a decent amount of your budget for stock management software.

You will find that most inventory management software comes with a free trial offer. Use these free offers to test any program that you are considering. For the most part, you should be able to purchase a good inventory program for less than $100. Rather than pay attention to the price of any software, it is a better idea to pay attention to features and user-ease. An expensive program that you cannot operate is worth very little, while a free program that keeps track of everything is always a wise idea.