INNOVATION & TECHNOLOGY
Automate and Streamline Business Processes Four key technologies businesses can use to save time and money
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usinesses can save time and money – and serve customers more effectively – by taking advantage of current technologies that help automate and streamline a wide variety of business processes. When suppliers save money, they can pass this savings on to customers and generate more business – making it a win-win for everyone. The following four technologies can help businesses realize this win-win dynamic.
Online contracts The rise of the internet means suppliers work with companies from around the world and need a simple, easy way to enter into a contract with those companies. Online contracts are the answer. These contracts are created and signed over the internet – and they are safe, reliable and legally binding. DocuSign and Pandadoc are two services that allow users to create and deliver contracts online and allow recipients to place their legally binding signatures in the document. Both services provide an app that allows someone to send, sign and approve documents on almost any device from anywhere in the world. Suppliers can create templates for documents that are used frequently. These online contract services are green solutions that support a pa14
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perless business and increase productivity by eliminating the time needed to physically deliver documents to various locations. Shipping hubs Shipping, fulfillment and returns are integral parts of any supply business. When it comes to shipping, customers look for service and speed. They have become used to free shipping offers with one- to two-day turnarounds, and they expect to be able to return an item just as easily. While these demands may seem unattainable for small businesses, online solutions such as ShipperHQ and ShipStation can help. ShipperHQ and ShipStation are user-friendly options that create a positive checkout experience for customers. These online shipping hubs help retailers quickly and efficiently import, organize, process, package, and ship their orders. With ShipperHQ, suppliers can offer flexible shipping rates and provide discounts, promotions, and markups, while ShipStation allows businesses to import orders from over one hundred merchants. ShipperHQ and ShipStation allow suppliers to place their brands on the product tracking page to keep it fresh in customers’ minds. ERP systems Enterprise resource planning (ERP) May 2021
systems are a type of software used to manage day-to-day activities such as accounting, project management, risk management, compliance, procurement and supply chain operations. With an ERP system, information is compiled in a central database so that leaders across all departments can analyze scenarios and discover improvements in processes. ERP systems are a critical component of any business because they eliminate data duplication, leading to cost savings, improved productivity and increased growth. Two popular ERP systems for businesses include NetSuite and QuickBooks Enterprise. NetSuite is a comprehensive, cloud-based ERP solution that integrates well with other automation software programs. It combines customer relationship management (CRM) and ecommerce capabilities with day-to-day management activities, uniting fragmented data. QuickBooks Enterprise streamlines accounting tasks such as payroll, payables, inventory tracking and advanced pricing. Features of ERP systems can be tailored for each business’s specific needs. Ordering apps Choosing the right ecommerce platform can save suppliers money, help them serve customers more effectively and improve customer relationships. JotForm and
