No matter the size of your company, to stay competitive in the marketplace today it is essential to provide a vibrant 3PL warehouse management software service. What used to be considered unattainable to small or mid-sized 3PL’s is not only within reach, it is a vital tool necessary to carry on the daily tasks for a thriving and profitable warehouse operation. Paper-based or legacy systems no longer provide the sort of efficiency required in the global arena. Technology that offers accessibility to all users in real time is critical. Moreover, 3PL software is available that streamlines daily operations, provides transparency, is user-friendly and cost-effective to own and operate.
Five of the most frequently cited myths that could be preventing your business from seriously considering a best-of-breed warehouse management system include the following:
- WMS installation will be a lengthy and costly undertaking. This is no longer true. In fact, web-based systems otherwise known as Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) are quick to access, provide rapid customization turnaround and do not entail the purchase of servers or additional hardware. In addition, most companies deliver SaaS without long term contracts and sell the service based only on what is used.
- The WMS size we need now won’t be the right size later. This is also untrue. When you select 3PL software service that has all the functionality you need now as well as existing pre-existing functionality for your future growth, you should be set. Choosing a provider, particular a web-based SaaS provider, will ensure a platform that facilitates expanded services right along with your companies’ growth as you add customers.
- WMS is too expensive for my business. This is particularly untrue when considering web-based programs. 3PL software delivered via the internet is cost-effective for any size business. For small and mid-sized 3PL’s it is important to remain competitive with larger operations and SaaS facilitates this with no long term commitments and by only charging for what is used.
- Any WMS that is lower priced may be unstable and go out of business in a few years. While it is true you need to do your research on a vendor that meets your current needs with a viable platform, proficient technical capability and expertise for future use, there are many strong companies that offer great stability. Selecting a company who is passionate about what they deliver, are innovators in the field and who have ‘walked the walk’ themselves will provide a solid relationship over the long haul.
- My home-grown system already works; I don’t need a best-of-breed WMS. While that could be the case in the current climate, there is a likely probability that your system may not remain competitive as technology and the 3PL industry continues to evolve. Changing business requirements, governmental regulations and market conditions could outdate your system, requiring costly upgrades, loss of efficiency and compromise customer loyalty.
All in all, 3PL software that provides an effective and accurate Warehouse Management System is essential for all companies in today’s global marketplace. And, with web-based Service-as-a-Software capabilities even small to mid-sized companies can afford it. For additional information, visit www.3plcentral.com.
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