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Using the latest software technology improves profit
"lJse the latest technology" is often the answer given to the question, "How do you run a business more profitably?"
But with fast track technology constantly and rapidly changing, how does a retail store owner or manager keep up? "Find a technology business parher who can select and implement the best of the latest technologies for your particular business," advises Dataline Corporation's Les Goldman.
Drawing on his experience with a company that has successfully provided business computer solutions to lumber and building material retailers and wholesalers since 1971. he recommends finding product offerings that are both on the leading technology edge and simple to master. This is the kind of software tools a business needs to profitably compete through the'90s, he adds.
Choosing wisely from software available, a retailer can increase mar- gins for each sale, reduce shrinkage and materials handling for each return-of-goods transaction, speed up cuslomer handling and data entry and accurately track special orders and delivery ofgoods. . : ::: ,:j l;the-Art.i.S6ftWai€. r r r./rlpt'....-::piibbm efing.rl ii!. : ::, ,,,,,,,,,,1,,fr10n,,nurihase,ferfiatlon,,,,,,,,, ::rrr::r:rr:/r:crustom::tialsaclloxb-lkllng':;,;;,, ,'. ,', / Sfecial order & deliveii sys,,..,,
Care should be taken to select software that integrates with other technology components of your business, Goldman cautions. This will ensure you can perform take-offs, create deck designs and more on your favorite PC program, then electronically forward the information for reprice, recost and quoting. A system database that permits you to tie into off-the-shelf desktop packages like Microsoft Excel will allow you to report business infonnation graphically or in custom designed reports.
Most important, Goldman points out, an open system design also allows you to choose how others can access your system. A contractor can be granted access to look up an item's price and availability at any time of day or night using a PC at his home, office or on the job site. With this kind of access, he can post an order for scheduled delivery or examine accounts receivable information for his account. When the store opens in the morning, the order or price request can be waiting for review and processing. The same system will allow the store to return confirmation to the contractor via his PC.
Technology has brought many competitive advantages to business and will continue to change the way we do business in the future, Goldman reiterates. A retailer must continue to shop for technology that will help him realize improved customer service, nnximum profitability and more efficient management of business.