Systems and tools in the retail business
ERP, CRM, inventory and webshop
Modern commerce is digital. You work daily in multiple systems and the better you know them the faster and more error-free you can work. Here are the most important ones.
§ERP — orders and inventory
The ERP system is the backbone of the trading company. Orders, goods, inventory, invoices and purchases are recorded here. When you create an order, the system automatically draws on inventory and gives you an overview of what is coming in and out. Learn to navigate quickly but always check your entries.
§CRM — the customers
The CRM system keeps track of customers: contact information, previous purchases, quotes and agreements. It gives you an overview so you can provide personalized service and follow up at the right times. A good CRM makes the customer feel remembered.
§Webshop and warehouse
If the company sells online, the webshop and warehouse must talk to each other. If an item goes out of stock, it must be shown immediately so the customer doesn't order something that doesn't exist. You work with product texts, prices, images and stock status.
- 01Keep product information and prices updated
- 02Ensure inventory status is correct
- 03Follow up on online orders and returns
- 04Understand what sells well and what does not
§Numbers you should be able to read
Trade is about numbers: profit, turnover, inventory turnover rate and contribution margin. You don't need to be an accountant, but you should be able to see if a trade makes money. If you understand the numbers, you make better decisions about prices and purchases.