Increasing efficiency & reducing costs

Improved performance

The need to increase efficiency and reduce costs whilst maintaining, or even improving customer service levels can be quite a challenge for distributors, especially in the current economic climate. Nevertheless, in the constant drive for improved profitability, it’s clear that the forward-thinking distributor should evaluate every area of the business in order to identify areas where it is possible to increase efficiency and reduce costs by taking the necessary steps to streamline and further automate their processes.

Greater productivity

Warehousing is one of the most complex areas and it is possible to increase efficiency and reduce costs at many points. Typically, these might include; forecasting, stock control, buying, picking & packing and reducing the number of part-shipments. At the same time, it is possible to increase efficiency and reduce costs in sales by taking steps to increase order entry speed at the call centre and better manage call-off schedules, back-orders and direct deliveries, as well as to increase promotions and up/cross-selling.

Enhanced service

Notwithstanding the drive to increase efficiency and reduce costs, this must not be at the expense of maintaining or improving, customer service. The key to this is faster access to information e.g. product availability, order status, detailed product information etc., to answer customer queries more quickly. Fast delivery options such as order by 6pm for next day delivery or allowing customers to select delivery days/times etc., will improve service and can also help to increase efficiency and reduce costs.

Find out more about Maginus' Advanced Distribution Software, powered by Microsoft Dynamics AX and how customers such as Smeg UK, IDS and Inmans Electrical benefit from Maginus Multi Channel Solutions.