ERP analytics are the tools and processes that turn raw data from your ERP system — such as sales, inventory, finance, and operations data — into actionable insights that help you make better business decisions.

Unlike standard ERP reporting, which often focuses on what happened in the past, ERP analytics helps you understand _**why it happened, predict what's likely to happen next**_, and _**recommend what you should do about it**_.

For leaders, ERP analytics answer the questions spreadsheets can't:
- Where are the bottlenecks slowing down fulfillment?
- Which products are draining profitability?
- How can we optimize inventory to prevent stockouts and overstocking?

If your ERP system already tracks the heartbeat of your operations, ERP analytics interpret what that heartbeat means so you can act quickly and confidently.

At Tailor, we believe analytics shouldn't be an afterthought or another integration headache. That's why our [composable, API-first ERP](https://www.tailor.tech/) system gives you real-time, flexible analytics designed to fit your unique workflows.

In this guide, we'll break down:
- What ERP analytics do 
- How they're different from traditional reporting 
- Why they're critical for decision-makers who want to lead with clarity, not guesswork

## Why ERP Analytics Matter

You already have data. Probably more than you can use. But without the right tools to analyze and interpret it, you're staring at a wall of numbers.

That's the paradox of modern business. Your ERP system silently collects valuable intelligence with every transaction — sales patterns, supplier costs, inventory movements — yet this gold mine of information remains locked away, its insights untapped.

ERP analytics breaks open this vault. It transforms raw data into actionable intelligence, letting you shift from **reactive firefighting to strategic foresight**.

Why have ERP analytics become non-negotiable in today's competitive landscape? Because while your competitors are still reading yesterday's news, you could be predicting tomorrow's headlines.

### 1. Faster, Smarter Decisions — Without the Guesswork

Some decisions can't wait. If you're managing fast-moving operations, delays can mean missed opportunities — or costly mistakes.

ERP analytics help you move quickly by giving you: 
- Real-time visibility into KPIs like fulfillment rates and sales by channel
- Instant answers without waiting for reports
- The confidence to act when things change — whether that's reallocating inventory or adjusting pricing on the fly

No more gut calls. Just decisions backed by data you trust.

### 2. Break Down Silos and See the Whole Picture

Shopify reports say one thing, while Amazon tells a different story. Meanwhile, finance is buried in spreadsheets with its own set of numbers. It's slow, messy, and makes decisions harder than they need to be.

ERP analytics change that. They pull all your data together — ecommerce, supply chain, finance — into one clear view. No more hopping between platforms. No more manual report reconciliations. Everyone on your team works from the same numbers, at the same time. That means faster decisions, fewer mistakes, and one less thing to second-guess.

### 3. Predict What's Coming Next (Instead of Reacting Too Late)

Every business deals with uncertainty. Sales trends shift. Supply chains get disrupted. Customer behavior changes overnight. Predictive ERP analytics help make sense of all that chaos. You can zoom in to see exactly where demand will spike next month — or where a supplier delay might hit hardest. And when you have that clarity, **you're not reacting. You're prepared, proactive, and ahead of the curve.**

### 4. Increase Efficiency and Control Costs

Inefficiencies have a way of hiding in plain sight. They show up as slow-moving inventory, underperforming channels, or manual processes that seem harmless — until they aren't. ERP analytics help you bring those blind spots into focus.

<table border="1">
    <thead>
        <tr>
            <th>The Problem</th>
            <th>What ERP Analytics Deliver</th>
        </tr>
    </thead>
    <tbody>
        <tr>
            <td>Inventory sitting too long
</td>
            <td>Clear visibility into which products are tying up cash
</td>
  </tr>
  <tr>
<td>Sales channels draining resources
</td>
<td>Insights into ROI — so you know which channels to fix or cut
</td>
  </tr>
  <tr>
<td>Procurement processes wasting time
</td>
<td>Streamlined workflows that cut out unnecessary steps
</td>
        </tr>
    </tbody>
</table>

The result is reduced waste and improved margins.

### 5. Empower Teams with the Right Insights

The warehouse is running smoothly — until stock runs low, and no one catches it in time. Finance signs off on an investment, but cash flow's tighter than they realized. Sales ramps up a new campaign, but no one's sure which products are moving the needle.

That's what happens when analytics are stuck in reports that only go to leadership.

When every team has access to the right insights in real-time, things change. The warehouse adjusts on the fly. Finance makes confident calls with up-to-date numbers. Sales and marketing focus on where they'll get the most return. ERP analytics aren't about more data. They're about **sharper decisions that keep you ahead of the curve.**

## Types of ERP Analytics (And How They Help You Lead Smarter)

ERP analytics isn't a one-size-fits-all tool. It's more like a set of lenses you can look through — each giving you a different view of your business. Some help you see where you've been, others show where you're headed, and a few tell you what to do next.

Understanding the types of analytics your ERP can deliver is key to making faster, better decisions. Here's a breakdown.

### 1. Descriptive Analytics: What's Happening Right Now?
Your real-time dashboard gives you the latest info. Descriptive analytics help make sense of what's happening.
- How many orders are being processed? 
- What's the status of inventory across your warehouses? 
- Are shipments on time?

It answers the simple but crucial question: _**What's going on in my business today?**_

Without this lens, you're flying blind. But with it, you get a clear snapshot of operations. Not yesterday's data. Not last week's. Right now.

And for businesses balancing Shopify, Amazon, and multiple 3PLs, seeing everything in one place is a game-changer.

### 2. Diagnostic Analytics: Why Did It Happen?
Now that you know what happened, do you understand why it happened? That's where diagnostic analytics come in.

Diagnostic analytics are like business detectives, investigating patterns, trends, and root causes. Instead of just spotting a problem, you uncover the story behind it — so you can write a better ending.

For example, if your returns are climbing, diagnostic insights might reveal it's connected to inaccurate product descriptions on a single sales channel. Once you've solved the mystery, you can take targeted action.

### 3. Predictive Analytics: What's Likely to Happen Next?
Predictive analytics give you an edge: 
- They forecast how demand will shift — so you're not scrambling to restock. 
- They spot inventory risks early, giving you time to adjust procurement. 
- And they highlight which customers might leave, so you can step in and keep them.

The difference? You're** not surprised** by what's next. **You're ready for it.**

### 4. Prescriptive Analytics: What Should You Do About It?

This is where analytics get prescriptive. You're not just seeing the future — you're getting a roadmap. 
- Shift procurement orders now to avoid future stockouts. 
- Ramp up production in time for forecasted demand spikes. 
- Double down on channels with the highest ROI (and ease up on the rest).

Prescriptive analytics turn insight into action. They help leaders like you move beyond awareness to execution — without second-guessing your decisions.

## Key Use Cases for ERP Analytics

ERP analytics aren't just nice to have. For C-suite leaders and executives, they've become the difference between reacting late and leading with confidence. Below are some of the most common ways organizations are using ERP analytics to make smarter, faster decisions — and drive better outcomes.

### 1. Forecast Demand with Confidence
Over-ordering ties up cash. Under-ordering risks missing sales. So how can ERP analytics help you avoid both?
- Look at historical sales trends to predict future demand (not guess at it).
- Identify seasonality patterns so you're ready before peak times hit.
- Factor in lead times from suppliers, so your inventory plans are realistic, not rushed.

Good demand forecasting reduces both stockouts and excess inventory — two of the biggest profit drains.

### 2. Optimize Inventory Across Every Channel
 
Inventory management gets messy fast, especially when you're juggling multiple sales channels and warehouse locations. 
- Know exactly how much inventory you have — and where it's sitting.
- Spot which SKUs are moving slowly and tying up working capital.
- Set reorder points that adjust automatically as demand changes.

This isn't about having more data. It's about having the right data at the right time so you can act before small issues turn into costly mistakes.

### 3. Pinpoint Profitability (and Stop the Guesswork)
ERP analytics acts as your financial microscope — letting you dissect profitability across products, customers, and channels. It reveals the hidden costs eating away at your bottom line and exposes the quiet money drains that traditional reporting misses. When you step back from this detailed view, you're armed with clarity: double down on your genuine profit engines and stop feeding the operations that masquerade as success but actually bleed your resources dry.

### 4. Improve Cash Flow Visibility
Cash flow surprises are never fun. Knowing where your money is — and where it's going — is critical.

<table border="1">
    <thead>
        <tr>
            <th>Without Clear Cash Flow Visibility
</th>
            <th>With ERP Analytics
</th>
        </tr>
    </thead>
    <tbody>
        <tr>
            <td>You're reacting to issues after they hit
</td>
            <td>You're planning ahead with accurate forecasts
</td>
  </tr>
  <tr>
<td>Unpaid invoices catch you by surprise
</td>
<td>Slow payers are flagged early
</td>
  </tr>
  <tr>
<td>Cash shortfalls disrupt your plans
</td>
<td>You anticipate needs and adjust proactively
</td>
        </tr>
    </tbody>
</table>

With better insight into your cash flow, you don't just stay afloat — you steer.

### 5. Understand Customer Behavior (and Act on It)

Retaining customers is cheaper than acquiring new ones, but only if you know what's driving their loyalty (or causing them to leave).
- Analyze buying patterns to spot your most valuable customers. 
- Identify churn risks early, before customers quietly disappear. 
- Personalize offers based on actual behavior, not guesses, to increase repeat purchases.

The better you understand your customers, the easier it is to keep them coming back.

## The Bigger Picture: Lead with Clarity, Not Guesswork
At its core, ERP analytics isn't about data. It's about leadership. They give you the clarity to make decisions you can stand behind — whether you're cutting costs, improving efficiency, or preparing to scale.

You can drill into the numbers, see exactly where your next move should be, and lead your team with confidence (instead of guesswork).

## What's Your Next Step?
Ask yourself: 

➡️ Where are you making decisions without enough data? 

➡️ What's one insight you wish you had right now? 

➡️ What could you change tomorrow if you had clearer visibility?

Write down your answers and choose the most critical one or two items to use as a guide for auditing your current reporting capabilities. Bring in your team and have an exploratory conversation about how to start solving for these analytics gaps. And when you’re ready, [explore how Tailor can power the next phase of your business growth](https://www.tailor.tech/).

thumbnail_Tailor ERP Glossary, What is ERP analytics.png

Tailor ERP Glossary, What is ERP analytics.png

ERP analytics are the tools and processes that turn raw data from sales, inventory, finance, and operations data into actionable insights.

What is ERP Analytics?

# **A Guide to ERP System Modules and Their Key Functions**

Enterprise resource planning (ERP) software is like mission control for modern businesses, unifying finance, inventory, procurement, sales, and more under one roof. But here’s the thing: a bloated, one-size-fits-all ERP is more of a headache than a solution. Businesses today need flexibility — an ERP that scales and evolves with them, not one that locks them into rigid structures. That’s where modular ERP systems shine.

Instead of forcing businesses into a predetermined box, modular ERPs let companies start with what they need and add functionality as they grow. It’s a smarter, more sustainable approach — because why pay for a dozen features when you only need three? 

In this guide, we’ll break down all the key ERP system modules, how they function, and how businesses can build a system that supports their goals without unnecessary complexity.


## **Understanding ERP System Modules: The Foundation of Business Efficiency**

Think of ERP systems as a set of building blocks. Each module serves a distinct purpose, whether it’s tracking inventory, processing orders, or handling payroll. The beauty of a modular ERP is that businesses can start small and scale up — no need to pay for features they don’t need.

Here's a full breakdown of all the key ERP system modules.


### **Financial Management: Where Clarity Meets Control**

If your ERP were a band, financial management would be the drummer — keeping time, holding the rhythm, and ensuring everything stays in sync. It’s not flashy, nor is it glamorous. But without it? Everything falls apart.

This module is designed to give you financial visibility and control in real time. It handles the fundamentals — automating your books, tracking cash flow, and keeping you compliant — so you’re not flying blind when it’s time to make big decisions.

ERP's financial management module:



* Automates invoicing, payment processing, and bank reconciliations.
* Manages your general ledger and chart of accounts.
* Generates real-time income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow reports.
* Tracks taxes, supports multi-entity accounting, and handles compliance.
* Supports budgeting, forecasting, and financial scenario planning.

Businesses don’t typically fail because they lack customers — they fail because they lose sight of their finances. Without accurate, up-to-date numbers, budgeting becomes guesswork and scaling becomes a gamble.

With ERP-powered financial management, you get confidence baked into every decision. Month-end close gets easier. Forecasts become strategic tools. And when your accountant calls, you’re ready.


### **Inventory & Warehouse Management: Stock Smarter, Not Harder**

There’s nothing sexy about inventory mismanagement, but it’s one of the fastest ways to lose money, customers, or both. Whether you’re overselling, understocking, or just can’t find that one pallet of SKUs in your warehouse, chaos in inventory hits hard and fast. 

ERP's inventory management module is how you prevent that. It’s the nerve center for tracking what you’ve got, where it is, and when you’ll need more of it. For retailers and product-based businesses, that’s everything.

ERP's inventory and warehouse management module:



* Tracks inventory levels in real time across all locations and sales channels.
* Automates stock reordering with set thresholds or predictive logic.
* Supports barcode scanning, bin locations, and warehouse workflows.
* Flags deadstock, shrinkage, and fulfillment errors before they get expensive.
* Syncs seamlessly with order management, procurement, and POS systems.

Without it, you’re guessing. Guessing if you have enough stock. Guessing if that new TikTok campaign will wipe you out. Guessing if that missing box ever existed in the first place. (Spoiler alert: Guessing isn’t a strategy.)

With ERP-driven inventory and warehouse management, you know exactly what’s in stock, what’s about to run out, and where it all lives. You eliminate the scramble and streamline fulfillment. And when it’s time to scale — whether it’s another store, another warehouse, or another sales channel — you’re ready.


### **Procurement & Vendor Management: Buy Better, Spend Less**

Procurement is more than placing orders — it’s making the right call at the right time with the right supplier. But when your vendors live in spreadsheets and your purchasing process is a patchwork of emails, PDFs, and sticky notes, things can get messy in a hurry.

This module brings order to the chaos. It turns procurement into a streamlined, trackable, and cost-conscious engine that keeps your supply chain moving without breaking the bank.

ERP's procurement and vendor management module:



* Automates purchase orders, approvals, and vendor communication.
* Tracks vendor performance, pricing history, and delivery timelines.
* Centralizes contract terms, lead times, and supplier documentation.
* Connects with inventory levels to prevent over-ordering or stockouts.
* Flags duplicate orders, pricing anomalies, and variances in spend.

Without it, you’re dealing with mismatched invoices, missed discounts, and “we thought someone else ordered it” moments. You lose leverage with vendors, blow your budget on rush shipping, and spend more time chasing paperwork than managing strategy.

But with ERP-powered procurement and vendor management, you get control and clarity. You know which vendors deliver on time. You see where costs are creeping. You negotiate from a position of data, not gut feel.


### **Order Management: Fulfillment Without the Fire Drills**

When your order volume starts climbing and your sales channels start multiplying, chaos comes quickly. Missed orders, duplicate shipments, slow fulfillment — what used to be manageable becomes a full-blown headache. That’s where order management steps in.

This module connects the dots between your sales channels, inventory, and fulfillment workflows — so you can get products out the door faster, with fewer errors and less manual effort.

ERP's order management module:



* Centralizes orders from all channels — Shopify, Amazon, in-store, wholesale, you name it.
* Automates order routing based on location, inventory, or priority.
* Tracks fulfillment status, shipping, and returns in real time.
* Syncs with inventory to prevent overselling and backorders.
* Integrates with 3PLs, carriers, and customer service tools for a smoother experience.

Without it, you’re buried in spreadsheets and tabs, manually checking inventory, copy-pasting shipping info, and apologizing for late deliveries. Every new sales channel you add becomes another point of friction.

But with ERP-powered order management, fulfillment becomes fluid. Orders flow in, get processed automatically, and ship from the best location without you lifting a finger. You cut down on errors, speed up delivery, and keep your customers happy.


### **HR & Payroll: Because People Aren’t Spreadsheets**

Hiring your first few employees is easy enough. But once your team starts growing — multiple roles, locations, pay structures, compliance requirements — it’s a different game. Suddenly, payroll gets messy, onboarding gets inconsistent, and your HR “system” is a collection of folders in someone’s inbox.

This module brings structure, automation, and peace of mind to the people side of your business.

ERP's HR and payroll module:



* Automates payroll runs, tax calculations, filings, and direct deposits.
* Tracks employee records, time off, benefits, and performance data.
* Ensures compliance with labor laws, tax jurisdictions, and internal policies.
* Supports onboarding, offboarding, and role-based access control.
* Offers employee self-service for paystubs, time-off requests, and benefits updates.

Without it, you’re risking late paychecks, tax errors, and HR bottlenecks that frustrate both employees and leadership. You’re manually updating records, chasing down approvals, and hoping your compliance gamble doesn’t backfire.

With ERP-driven HR and payroll, the chaos disappears. Paychecks go out on time (accurately). Records are always up to date. You reduce manual admin and stay compliant — without needing an in-house HR department.


## **The Bottom Line: A Flexible, Composable ERP Built for Growth**

The answer to solving your operations problems isn’t a one-size-fits-all ERP. The answer is a modular, composable, and adaptable ERP.

Businesses that use a composable, API-first ERP like Tailor gain:



* **Intelligent Automation.** Reduce manual errors and speed up workflows.
* **Scalability.** Grow without constraints by adding only the modules and features you need, when you need them.
* **Flexibility.** Customize workflows, connect with best-in-class tools, and avoid vendor lock-in.
* **Seamless Integration.** A headless architecture ensures effortless connectivity across your business systems.
* **Future-Proof Operations.** Stay ahead of market shifts with an ERP designed to evolve alongside your business.

The best ERP isn’t the most complex — it’s the one that fits your business perfectly. Tailor’s composable approach ensures you get the power of an enterprise-grade system with the flexibility of a modern, API-first solution.

**Ready to transform your operations with an ERP that works for you?**

See how Tailor's modular ERP can fit seamlessly with your retail and omnichannel operations.

[Schedule your demo today](https://www.tailor.tech/demo).

thumbnail_A Guide to ERP System Modules and Their Key Functions.png

A Guide to ERP System Modules and Their Key Functions.png

A guide to all the key ERP system modules, how they function, and how businesses can build a system that supports their goals without unnecessary complexity.

A Guide to ERP System Modules and Their Key Functions

# **ERP Readiness: Is Your Business ERP-Ready?**

Scaling a business is exciting. But at some point, managing your operations with Excel, QuickBooks, and Shopify stops being an advantage and becomes a liability. That’s when an enterprise resource planning (ERP) system moves from a "nice to have" to a necessity.

Is your organization ready for ERP? More importantly, are you ready to implement it without derailing your business? Let's break it down in detail.


## **Key Indicators That Your Business Needs an ERP**

If you’re unsure whether it’s time to take the ERP plunge, here are some unmistakable signs:



* **Your data lives in silos.** Sales, inventory, and financial data should flow seamlessly across platforms — without going on a scavenger hunt.
* **Fulfilling orders is a nightmare.** Missed orders, late shipments, and frustrated customers? That’s an efficiency problem that ERP can solve.
* **You’ve outgrown QuickBooks.** When your accounting software starts to show cracks — like messy reconciliation and limited reporting — it’s time to level up.
* **Your team is drowning in manual work.** If your employees spend more time entering data than making strategic decisions, automation is the answer.
* **Scaling feels like chaos.** Expanding to new markets or sales channels should be exciting, not a logistical crisis.
* **Reporting takes too long.** If it takes days to generate financial or inventory reports, you’re missing out on real-time insights.
* **Your competitors are moving faster.** Are other businesses in your space leveraging ERP and outpacing you? That's a sign you’re falling behind.

ERP readiness isn’t just about growing — it’s about growing the right way.


## **Common Myths About ERP Readiness (And Why They're Wrong)**


### **Myth #1: "We’re Too Small for an ERP"**

Truth: ERPs aren’t just for massive corporations. Tailored ERP solutions scale with your business, so you won’t have to rebuild your entire tech stack in a few years.


### **Myth #2: "We Can Just Add More Software"**

Truth: Patchworking your tech stack will inevitably lead to bottlenecks. An ERP unifies your operations, giving you one source of truth instead of 15 different dashboards.


### **Myth #3: "ERP Systems Are Too Rigid"**

Truth: Traditional ERP systems used to be rigid, but headless,[ composable ERP solutions](https://www.tailor.tech/blog/posts/main-components-of-erp-systems) are customizable and adapt to your business — not the other way around.


### **Myth #4: "Implementing an ERP Takes Too Long"**

Truth: [ERP implementation](https://www.tailor.tech/blog/posts/best-practices-for-a-successful-erp-implementation-process) can be complex, but the right strategy — from a phased rollout to training and integration — means less downtime and more efficiency gains.


## **Why Being ERP-Ready Changes Everything**

Let’s say your business is on the brink of scaling. Maybe you’re expanding your product line, moving into new markets, or handling higher order volumes. Without an ERP, each step adds complexity. But *with* an ERP, your growth will be streamlined.


### **The Advantages of Being ERP-Ready**



* **Real-time visibility.** No more waiting for reports — ERPs give you instant access to all your business insights.
* **Fewer errors, more efficiency.** Automated processes eliminate costly mistakes from entering data manually.
* **Stronger customer experience.** Faster order fulfillment and accurate inventory tracking make for happier customers.
* **Seamless integrations.** ERPs connect with [ecommerce](https://www.tailor.tech/blog/posts/best-erp-for-ecommerce), [CRM](https://www.tailor.tech/blog/posts/erp-vs-crm-which-system-does-your-business-need), and [AI-driven analytics](https://www.tailor.tech/blog/posts/ai-in-erp-how-artificial-intelligence-is-shaping-the-future-of-erp-software) to make your tech stack work *with* you, not against you.
* **Cost reduction.** Save time and money by reducing waste, streamlining processes, and automating routine tasks.
* **Regulatory compliance.** Many industries require strict compliance tracking, but an ERP ensures you're effortlessly meeting all your legal and financial obligations.

Think of an ERP as the infrastructure that lets you scale — without breaking what’s already working.


## **Steps to Prepare for ERP Implementation**

Implementing an ERP is a significant shift — one that requires considerable (and considerate) planning. Here’s how to get your business ERP-ready:



1. **Audit your current systems.** Identify inefficiencies, data gaps, and tech limitations.
2. **Set clear objectives.** Define what you need from an ERP, whether it’s better inventory control, financial reporting, streamlined workflows, or something else entirely.
3. **Make your integration seamless.** Choose an ERP that plays nice with your existing platforms (CRM, ecommerce, analytics, etc.).
4. **Map out process changes.** An ERP isn’t just software — it’s a workflow shift. Get clear on how your operations will change.
5. **Prepare your team.** Train your employees early on so they can hit the ground running when the ERP goes live.
6. **Select the right vendor.** ERP solutions are not interchangeable. Choose one that aligns with your business's (and your industry's) particular needs.
7. **Run a pilot program.** Don't greenlight a full rollout until you've tested your new ERP in one department and ironed out any issues. Your team can test a contained module for one business area with a composable ERP, which minimizes risk.


## **Getting Your Team on Board**

ERP transitions fail when teams aren’t prepared. The best way to be prepared? Get early buy-in and proper training for your staff.


### **Steps to Ensure a Smooth Transition**



* **Involve key stakeholders early.** Get input from employees who will actually use the system.
* **Offer hands-on training.** Theory is great, but people need to practice in real-world scenarios.
* **Start with a phased rollout.** Don’t flip the switch all at once — transition in stages to minimize disruptions.
* **Establish support channels.** Employees need a go-to resource for troubleshooting and questions.
* **Encourage feedback.** Team members who use the system daily can provide valuable insights for improvement.

Modern ERP solutions come equipped with [AI-powered insights and automation](https://www.tailor.tech/blog/posts/ai-in-erp-how-artificial-intelligence-is-shaping-the-future-of-erp-software). Training employees to leverage these features is critical — especially when it comes to maximizing ROI.


## **The Future of ERP: Scaling with Automation**

Here’s the reality: Manual processes won’t sustain long-term growth. Automation is the backbone of modern ERPs, and businesses that embrace it gain a competitive edge.


### **How Automation Supercharges ERP**



* **Predictive analytics.** AI-powered insights mean better demand forecasting and optimal inventory levels.
* **Automated workflows.** Machine learning and automation help to reduce manual data entry, resulting in fewer invoicing errors and fulfillment delays.
* **Scalability without extra headcount.** Automated processes empower businesses to grow without endlessly expanding their staff.
* **Self-correcting inventory management.** AI helps prevent stockouts and overstocking — and it does it in real time.
* **Smart financial tracking.** Automated expense tracking, budget forecasts, and tax compliance mean fewer financial errors.

In other words, an ERP isn’t just a management tool — it’s a growth accelerator.


## **Security and Compliance: ERP Necessities**

Scaling can be thrilling — until security risks start creeping in. The bigger your business gets, the bigger the target on your back. A slapdash approach to compliance or data protection isn’t just risky — it’s reckless. 

A solid ERP should be your first line of defense, keeping your systems tight, your data secure, and your operations bulletproof against cyber threats and regulatory nightmares.


### **What to Look for in ERP Security**



* **Role-based access controls.** Not everyone needs the keys to the kingdom. Lock down sensitive data so only the right people see it.
* **Automated compliance tracking.** Regulations can change at the drop of a hat. An ERP should keep you ahead of SOC 2, HIPAA, GDPR, and CCPA requirements without the headache.
* **Data encryption and backup.** If a cyberattack or server failure hits, your data should be untouchable, not gone forever.
* **Disaster recovery plans.** What happens when things go south? A good ERP has failover systems to keep you running, no matter what.
* **AI-powered threat detection.** Hackers don’t take breaks, and neither should your security. Let machine learning flag shady activity before it becomes a disaster.
* **Audit logging and reporting.** A paper trail for everything. Know who did what, when, and why — so you’re always one step ahead of potential issues.

ERP software is more than a business tool — it’s a security essential. If your system isn’t protecting your business, it’s failing you.


## **Tailor: Making It Easy to Be ERP-Ready**

ERP readiness isn’t about checking boxes. It’s about setting your business up to win — faster operations, tighter security, fewer headaches. The right ERP will clear the path to long-term prosperity — so you can scale intelligently without tripping over your own growth.

Tailor's headless ERP enables businesses to swap outdated systems and legacy ERPs for a flexible, operational system — that can be implemented in weeks, not months. Whether you’re battling inventory chaos, security risks, or disjointed workflows, Tailor's customizable ERP has you covered.

Ready to level up your ERP game? [Schedule your demo with Tailor today](https://www.tailor.tech/demo).


ERP Readiness - is your business ERP ready?

thumbnail_ERP Readiness.png

ERP Readiness.png

Is your organization ready for ERP? More importantly, are you ready to implement it without derailing your business? Let’s break it down in detail.

ERP Readiness: Is Your Business ERP-Ready?

When I [first wrote](https://medium.com/@tailor.tech/introducing-tailor-platform-pioneering-the-concept-of-headless-erp-d6f46878497a) about Tailor as the only headless ERP platform, I focused on the technical capabilities that set it apart from traditional, monolithic ERPs like SAP or NetSuite: an API-first approach that empowers every company with flexibility and data best practices.

But over the past couple of years, as we’ve worked with business owners and operators to rethink what a modern ERP should be, one thing has become clear: many businesses and leadership teams still don’t grasp how wide the gap is between most mission-critical technology and most ERP tools.

# Monolithic ERP: The business cost of inflexibility

[ERP software](https://www.tailor.tech/blog/posts/what-is-an-erp-system-a-beginners-guide-to-erp) has been around for decades, and it takes up a significant portion of most companies’ software budgets — I’ve seen the ERP budget line item represent 30% of all software expenses in some cases. Yet despite the significant investment it represents, ERP hasn’t evolved at the pace of other business technologies. While the best tech companies have embraced **API-first, composable architectures**, ERP has remained rigid and inflexible. 

Businesses that still rely on monolithic (I’ll explain this term later) ERPs are struggling. Implementing an ERP system or upgrade is a massive, expensive, and often disruptive undertaking. 
- **Ulta Beauty** launched a [$180 million ERP implementation](https://www.ciodive.com/news/Ulta-Beauty-enterprise-ERP-challenges-strategy/735019/) in 2021 that wrapped up in the summer of 2024. After migrating stores to the new system, Ulta employees faced significant challenges in purchasing, store allocation, and other operational areas. Ulta employees were managing both the old and new systems at the same time, which led to store inventory allocation disruptions that ultimately contributed to a decline in sales in [Q2 of 2024](https://www.fool.com/earnings/call-transcripts/2024/08/29/ulta-beauty-ulta-q2-2024-earnings-call-transcript/).
- **Hershey** saw an almost 25% sales decline in one product segment after their [multiyear SAP ERP implementation](https://www.ciodive.com/news/hershey-erp-upgrade-sales-inventory-automation-productivity/707285/) stretched into 2024. ([Hershey](https://finansys.com/blog/failed-erp-implementation-hershey/) also requested an accelerated ERP implementation with SAP in 1999 that led to a failure to deliver $100 million worth of product because orders weren’t compatible with the new ERP system). 
- After switching to SAP,  **Lamb Weston** struggled with [reduced visibility and fulfillment challenges](https://www.ciodive.com/news/lamb-weston-erp-transition-q3-challenges/712738/) hurt net sales by $135 million in 2024.
- **[Gartner](https://www.gartner.com/en/information-technology/insights/what-it-leaders-must-do-to-avoid-disappointing-erp-initiatives)** predicts that **70% of enterprise ERP initiatives will fail** to meet their original business goals by 2027.

So why do companies keep going down this path? Because **monolithic ERP systems demand an all-or-nothing approach**, forcing businesses to replace everything at once instead of adapting incrementally. This is exactly why a **composable approach** is the future.

# A Composable approach to business operations

Companies like **Uber**, **Amazon** and **Shopify** have leaned into composable strategies, giving them the agility to scale and innovate — they’ve been able to adapt to new market environments without slowing or halting operations. 

For those who are less technically minded or unfamiliar with these engineering terms, the difference between these two kinds of technologies can be difficult to fully grasp — as can their resulting business and operational implications.

The easiest way to define **composable software** is to explain what it is not. **Composable software is the opposite of monolithic software**.

## What is a monolithic ERP?

Traditional ERP systems like SAP and NetSuite are **monolithic and tightly coupled**, meaning all business functions — accounting, inventory, sales, HR — are bundled together in a single system. This setup works if you **never need to change anything**. But the moment you want to customize, integrate new tools or rapidly expand operation, **monolithic ERP becomes a nightmare**.

![Monolithic ERP.png](https://proud-diamond-9f85b9c627.media.strapiapp.com/Monolithic_ERP_27d49f8662.png)

**The pitfalls of monolithic ERP systems:**
- **All-or-nothing architecture**: You’re forced to use the entire system, even if only parts are relevant to your business. Need a more powerful inventory solution but want to keep your order management as-is? Too bad — you’ll likely need to pay for an entire suite of features when it comes to enterprise ERP tools.
- **Difficult customization**: Changing one function often requires modifying the entire system because monolithic software is tightly coupled. It’s like unraveling the yarn of a whole sweater just to add a new button.
- **Integration headaches**: External tools (like Shopify, QuickBooks, or CRM platforms) are hard to connect, forcing companies into manual workarounds like downloading data via spreadsheets and uploading into other tools.

##### **_Definition: Monolithic ERP_**
_A monolithic ERP is a traditional, all-in-one software tool where all business functions (such as accounting, inventory, sales and HR) are tightly integrated into a single platform. Examples include SAP and NetSuite. While this approach can provide a unified system, it comes with significant downsides, such as all-or-nothing adoption of an entire suite of tools and limited integration with external tools (such as Shopify or QuickBooks)._

## What is composable software?


A **composable software platform** solves this problem by **decoupling different functions into modular, API-first components**. What does this mean? Imagine that instead of buying one giant ERP app that manages everything (manufacturing, inventory, purchasing, supply chain, different sales channels), you bought individual apps — or modules — for your different business functions and needs.  But here’s the key difference, these modules all talk perfectly to each other and you can manage all of them from the same interface/screen. 

![Composable, headless ERP.png](https://proud-diamond-9f85b9c627.media.strapiapp.com/Composable_headless_ERP_c8c00784f9.png)

Instead of being locked into an all-in-one system, businesses can pick and choose the tools that best suit their needs. Operators can tailor their software according to their specific use cases or problems they need to solve — rather than changing their operations to accommodate an ERP system’s workflows.

Our team often points to Shopify as an example of this kind of flexible, API-first capability. Many commerce tools promise customization via access to an API — but ultimately fall short by providing APIs as an afterthought and failing to fully integrate them with their own product development (rendering API access almost useless for their customers). While traditional commerce systems sold a tightly coupled frontend and backend, Shopify became the de facto headless commerce platform by providing a new level of operational flexibility with a composable and API-first architecture. 

**Shopify’s composable approach:**
- **Cart & Checkout**: Want to build a native store experience in your mobile app? Shopify’s composable approach allows businesses to use its cart and checkout via Shopify’s API. This eliminates the need to create or manage another database for mobile app carts and purchases, freeing up businesses and developers to focus on excellent front-end experiences.
- **Customer Support**: Shopify’s API enables third-party customer support tools to dynamically access order and customer data. Companies can choose the support tools that suit them best while accessing relevant customer information in real time via API. 
- **Shipping & Logistics**: Instead of building proprietary shipping solutions, businesses can integrate Shopify’s API with carriers like FedEx and enable flexible shipping, tracking, and returns management without developing custom infrastructure.
- **Returns & Order Management**: Businesses can integrate specialized solutions for return management instead of relying on built-in platform tools. API-driven connectivity across the modern commerce stack ensures that return data syncs with customer orders and warehouse systems.
- **Ecosystem & Extensibility**: Because modern commerce tech stacks are composable, businesses can pick and choose their solutions rather than being locked into a single platform’s native tools. Unlike older monolithic platforms, Shopify’s API-first model allows businesses to choose from an entire ecosystem of apps and integrations with third-party software.
- **Composable Frontend & CMS**: Businesses are no longer restricted to built-in templates — they can create unique storefronts while leveraging Shopify’s backend capabilities. Headless CMS platforms can be integrated seamlessly, allowing for richer, content-driven commerce experiences.

Many first-time ERP buyers we’ve encountered expect **the same flexibility they get from Shopify**, only to face a harsh reality. I often hear: _“What do you mean I can’t change just one thing? Why can’t we use Shopify to take orders and use SAP's accounting.”_

##### _**Definition: Composable ERP**_
_Composable ERP is a modular, API-first software platform that allows businesses to use and customize only the functionalities they need (such as inventory, finance, order management or CRM). Unlike traditional monolithic ERPs, composable ERP systems are built from independent — yet seamlessly connected and compatible — components. Composable ERP enables flexibility and integration with tools like Shopify and QuickBooks via API-driven architecture while also providing scalability and resilience against disruptions._

## What’s the difference between composable ERP and app integrations?

You might wonder, “How is this different from my other apps (for accounting, inventory management, 
ordering processing, etc.)  that integrate with my other primary systems like Shopify and QuickBooks?”

The key difference: Composable software isn’t just about integrating apps — it’s about designing your entire system to be modular, flexible, reliable and scalable from the ground up.

<table border="1">
    <thead>
        <tr>
            <th>App Integrations = Adding on to an existing structure</th>
            <th>Composable Software = An efficient system That Works for You</th>
        </tr>
    </thead>
    <tbody>
        <tr>
            <td>When you connect Shopify, QuickBooks, or an inventory tool, you’re stacking integrations on top of separate systems. This works in the short term, but over time:
<ul>
<li>Data syncing becomes messy.</li>
<li>Workflows hit automation limitations.</li>
<li>If one system changes (like a Shopify API update), integrations break.</li>
</ul>
</td>
            <td>Instead of patching together multiple apps, a composable ERP is built from independent, interchangeable modules that naturally connect.
<ul>
<li>Choose only the modules you need (inventory, finance, order management, etc.).</li>
<li>Maintain a central source of truth, rather than fragmented data across multiple apps.</li>
<li>Automate processes seamlessly without syncing issues</li>
</ul>
</td>
        </tr>
    </tbody>
</table>

Think of traditional integrations like using power adapters to connect different devices — you can make it work, but you run the risk of everything going down or overloading the system. Composable software is like Legos — designed to fit together perfectly from the start so you can tear apart and rebuild wherever you need to without starting from scratch.

## Monolithic ERP vs. Headless ERP

A helpful metaphor for how monolithic ERP systems differ from composable or headless ERPs is a food court vs. a standalone restaurant.

Monolithic ERP is like a traditional, standalone restaurant, where the kitchen prepares every dish from a single menu. If you want to upgrade your equipment, add new dishes or change how one part of the menu is prepared, you need to overhaul the entire kitchen. This slows down the entire operation with disruptions.

Composable software, like a headless ERP, is more like a food court: 
- **Modules = different food court vendors**. Each food vendor specializes in a specific cuisine or dish like sushi, burgers, pizza.
- **APIs = shared infrastructure**. These vendors operate independently but share common infrastructure like seating, utilities, restrooms, and payment systems.

With a food court:
- You can add or remove vendors (modules) without affecting the others.
- If one vendor is too busy or fails, the rest of the food court keeps running.
- Customers (users) can mix and match meals (customize workflows between modules) based on their preferences.

Composable software like headless ERP isn’t about forcing businesses into a single system. It’s about **enabling them to build the system that works best for them at any given stage of growth**. Instead of being forced into an all-in-one system, businesses can mix and match the best tools for each function.
- **Flexibility**: Choose the modules you need (inventory, accounting, CRM, etc.), swap them out when necessary, and integrate with best-of-breed tools.
- **Easy Integration**: API-driven architecture ensures smooth connections with external platforms like Shopify, QuickBooks or any specialized software.
- **Scalability**: Businesses can start with only the essentials and expand their system as they grow, without massive overhauls or risks of a large-scale implementation.

# Growing brands: Where lack of flexibility & reliability is painful

For growing businesses, the need for a composable approach is often urgent. Without it, companies end up:
- Adopting **temporary fixes** that don’t scale.
- Getting **locked into inflexible monolithic ERPs** that require costly migrations later.
- Bouncing between ERP-adjacent solutions that lack an accessible **source of truth**.

Retailers or companies selling via multiple channels (omnichannel) in particular have voiced the unique pains of balancing growth and their operational systems:
- **Our systems fail at critical times**: Our patchwork solution of apps that integrate with Shopify, Quickbooks, our Airtable database, inventory management tools and other apps lead to slow load times and lag during peak order volume (Black Friday, promotional periods, etc.)
- **I can’t figure out our product margin**: Our inflexible inventory accounting doesn’t support freight, landed costs or past due invoices, so we never have clear and nuanced picture of our inventory costs.
- **I’m constantly overstocked or out of stock**: We want to account for seasonality with our forecasting or wrangle our unpredictable B2B orders with smarter replenishment dates. But our sales order process can’t map to our ERP’s product structure. 
- **We’re constantly canceling orders or over-selling**: Our inventory management tool integrates with our online store and other marketplaces in theory. But the data takes too long to sync so we end up selling inventory that doesn’t exist.

## A final note

Some of our favorite customers are those who have been **burned by a bad ERP implementation**. They’ve experienced the growing pains that led to exploring legacy ERPs and know firsthand that a more **flexible**, **scalable system** isn’t just nice to have. It’s necessary to stay afloat in an increasingly complex retail landscape. 

**That’s why we built Tailor as the only headless, API-first ERP**. With Tailor, companies can: 
- **Start small**, solving critical operational problems first. You can launch a Tailor module within the **first week** of your implementation.
- **Add or swap out modules** without disrupting the entire system.
- **Avoid downtime** by gradually integrating new tools alongside existing processes.

Curious about how Tailor’s headless ERP helps you take control of retail operations in weeks (instead of months)? [Book a demo](https://www.tailor.tech/demo) with our team.

## Quick Answers and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

### What’s the difference between composable and headless?

**Composable** and **headless** are closely related concepts. **Headless** refers to decoupling a system’s frontend (user interface) from its backend (core functions and data). For example, a business could use a headless content management system to deploy custom experiences across its mobile app and website without being constrained by templates, plugin functionality, etc. **Composable**, on the other hand, goes beyond decoupling the frontend by breaking down the entire system into modular, API-first components that can be inserted, adjusted and replaced as needed.

### How can I evaluate if an ERP solution is composable? 

There are several definitions of what makes software truly composable. Gartner’s four, core principles for composability (orchestration, discovery, modularity, autonomy) provide a helpful framework but are a bit abstract. That’s why we recommend evaluating headless ERP vendors based on one main criterion: whether they have an **API-first approach**. Look for public API documents and good developer support — you should have access to the vendor’s developers or a sales engineer with working programming knowledge. If a vendor charges an additional fee for using APIs, that’s a red flag.


Composable ERP solves the flexibility problem of traditional, monolithic ERPs by breaking down rigid, all-in-one systems into flexible, API-first modules

thumbnail_Composable ERP - How Modular Systems Solve the ERP Flexibility Problem.png

Composable ERP - How Modular Systems Solve the ERP Flexibility Problem.png

Composable ERP solves the flexibility problem of traditional ERP systems, enabling businesses to scale and adapt without the constraints of monolithic software.

Composable ERP: How Modular Systems Solve the ERP Flexibility Problem

# ERP vs CRM: Which System Does Your Business Need?

If your business is growing, chances are your software stack is groaning under the weight of spreadsheets, disconnected tools, and a rising tide of inefficiencies. Maybe customer orders are slipping through the cracks. Maybe inventory is a black hole of uncertainty. Or maybe your sales team is drowning in manual data entry instead of, you know, selling.

The good news? There's a solution — two of them, actually: ERP and CRM systems, two software heavyweights designed to streamline operations and improve business outcomes. But which one do you actually need? And how do they work together to fuel growth?

Let’s break it down.


## Understanding ERP vs. CRM: Key Differences and Functions

Enterprise resource planning (ERP) and customer relationship management (CRM) serve different purposes, but both play a crucial role in business success.

ERP is the brain behind your business: integrating core operations like inventory management, finance, HR, and supply chain logistics. It keeps everything running smoothly behind the scenes. CRM is the heart behind your business: it contains customer interactions, sales pipelines, and marketing data, ensuring that leads turn into loyal customers.

While a CRM helps you manage customer relationships and drive sales, an ERP system connects all business processes, ensuring data flows seamlessly from department to department. Modern ERP systems provide more flexibility than the rigid systems of old, allowing companies to scale without being boxed in by software limitations.


### **Key Features of ERP and CRM**


<table>
  <tr>
   <td><strong>Feature</strong>
   </td>
   <td><strong>ERP</strong>
   </td>
   <td><strong>CRM</strong>
   </td>
  </tr>
  <tr>
   <td>Core Function
   </td>
   <td>Business operations & financials
   </td>
   <td>Customer relationships & sales
   </td>
  </tr>
  <tr>
   <td>Key Users
   </td>
   <td>Finance, supply chain, HR
   </td>
   <td>Sales, marketing, customer service
   </td>
  </tr>
  <tr>
   <td>Data Managed
   </td>
   <td>Inventory, procurement, accounting
   </td>
   <td>Customer profiles, interactions, leads
   </td>
  </tr>
  <tr>
   <td>Focus
   </td>
   <td>Efficiency & automation
   </td>
   <td>Customer engagement & retention
   </td>
  </tr>
</table>


ERPs and CRMs aren’t rivals — they’re teammates. While ERPs keep the gears of your business turning by managing financials, inventory, and operations, CRMs keep your customers happy by tracking interactions and driving sales. When these systems work together, you get a seamless flow of data that ensures sales teams know exactly what’s in stock, finance teams have accurate forecasting, and customers get exactly what they were promised — without the guesswork.


## Common Misconceptions About ERP and CRM Systems

ERP and CRM software have been around long enough to pick up their fair share of myths. Some businesses think they need one or the other when, in reality, both systems play crucial but different roles. Others assume these tools are plug-and-play, only to find out they require customization to truly deliver value. Let’s clear up some of the biggest misconceptions.

**Misconception #1: ERP and CRM are interchangeable.** They’re not. CRMs handle customer interactions; ERPs handle internal operations. Think of CRM as your sales team’s best friend and ERP as the foundation of your entire business.

**Misconception #2: One-size-fits-all ERP solutions work for everyone.**  Reality check: They don’t. For decades, businesses have  struggled with off-the-shelf ERPs that can't be modified to fit with their unique workflows — leading to operational losses rather than gains.

**Misconception #3: A CRM can fully replace an ERP.** While CRM systems provide incredible insights into customer interactions and sales trends, they lack the operational depth of an ERP. Without an ERP, businesses might find it difficult to manage inventory, automate processes, and streamline financials.

The days of rigid, one-size-fits-all ERP systems are over. In 2025 and beyond, customization is key to unlocking true operational efficiency. Because the best ERP solutions adapt to your business — not the other way around.


## Enhancing Efficiency: Why ERP Is the Ultimate Time-Saver

If there’s one thing large enterprises can’t afford, it’s wasted time. Yet too many businesses get stuck in a cycle of manual data entry, outdated reporting, and processes that move slower than a dial-up connection. 

That’s where ERP comes in, acting like a central nervous system that keeps everything connected, automated, and moving at full speed.

A good ERP system automates tedious back-office tasks, eliminating bottlenecks and freeing up teams to focus on strategy, innovation, and customer service instead of chasing down inventory numbers or cross-checking spreadsheets.

Here’s how ERP automation makes a real impact:



* **Slash manual data entry.** Automate everything from invoicing to inventory updates, cutting down on errors and freeing up hours of mind-numbing work.
* **Smarter decision-making.** Real-time analytics mean no more outdated reports — just instant insights that help you make the right call, every time.
* **Seamless workflow integration.** ERP connects departments, ensuring finance, sales, and operations work from the same source of truth.
* **Predictive power.** AI-powered forecasting helps businesses anticipate demand, optimize resources, and avoid costly stockouts or overproduction.

A CRM is great for tracking customer interactions, but it can’t handle complex workflows or automate large-scale operations the way an ERP can. While CRM ensures your sales team knows when to follow up, ERP ensures that the products they’re selling are actually in stock, production schedules are on track, and financial reports are always up to date.

Automation isn’t just a buzzword — it’s the future of ERP. Businesses that embrace it gain a competitive edge, while those stuck in manual workflows get left behind. The choice is clear: Streamline with ERP or stay stuck in the past.


## Transforming Customer Relations: The Role of CRM in Multi-Channel Sales

Today’s customers engage with brands across multiple channels: email, social media, chat, phone calls — you name it. Without a centralized system, valuable customer data gets scattered across platforms, leading to missed opportunities and frustrating customer experiences.

Here's what CRMs bring to the table:



* **Better customer engagement.** Track every interaction, ensuring no lead falls through the cracks.
* **Sales and marketing alignment.** Automate follow-ups, nurture leads, and drive conversions.
* **Data-driven decision-making.** Leverage customer insights to refine marketing strategies and sales approaches.
* **Customer retention strategies.** Personalize customer experiences with predictive analytics and automation.

CRM has become tablestakes for businsses looking to grow their sales and customer relationships. But for true scalability, CRM and ERP need to work in tandem — connecting customer data with real-time inventory, order fulfillment, and financials.


## ERP + CRM: The Power Duo That Drives Business Growth

Think of ERP and CRM as the ultimate business tag team — one keeps operations running like a well-oiled machine, while the other ensures customers stay engaged and happy. When these two systems work together, magic happens. Orders are fulfilled faster, customer interactions are more personalized, and decision-making gets a serious upgrade. But when they’re disconnected? That’s when inefficiencies creep in, miscommunication runs rampant, and growth stalls before it even gets off the ground.

That’s why integrating these two business centers is critical. In today’s fast-paced business world, data silos are a death sentence. Without integration, your CRM might tell you a customer just placed a massive order, but without ERP syncing that info, your warehouse team has no idea they need to ramp up fulfillment.

Here’s what a seamless ERP-CRM connection brings to the table:



* **360-degree business visibility.** Sales, inventory, finance, and customer data all live in one ecosystem, eliminating blind spots.
* **Faster response times.** Real-time updates mean sales teams know exactly what’s in stock before making promises to customers.
* **Smarter forecasting.** With customer trends and operational data working together, businesses can better predict demand and avoid costly overstock or stockouts.
* **Streamlined workflows.** Automated processes replace manual handoffs, reducing errors and speeding up everything from lead conversion to order fulfillment.

Integration between your ERP and CRM isn’t a luxury; it’s the foundation for efficiency, innovation, and long-term business growth. If you’re not syncing these systems, you’re leaving money on the table. 


## How to Choose the Right System for Your Business

Choosing between an ERP and a CRM (or both) isn’t just about what’s trending — it’s about what fits your business needs today and where you’re headed tomorrow. A system that works great for a small team might crumble under the weight of rapid expansion, while a bloated, over-complicated platform could slow you down instead of speeding you up. 

Here’s how to make the right call:


### 1. Map Out Your Pain Points

Before diving into software demos, identify the biggest operational challenges you’re facing. Are manual processes slowing you down? Is customer data scattered across different platforms? Understanding your pain points helps you prioritize must-have features.


### 2. Define Your Growth Goals

Think beyond today — where do you want your business to be in five years? If expansion is on the horizon, your system needs to scale with you. ERPs excel at handling complex operations and high transaction volumes, while CRMs enhance customer relationships and sales workflows. The right system should align with your long-term vision.


### 3. Evaluate Integration Needs

Your tech stack shouldn’t look like a patchwork quilt of disconnected tools. If you already have a CRM but need better financial or inventory management, an ERP might be the missing piece. If you have an ERP but need to refine your customer engagement, integrating a CRM could be the answer.


### 4. Consider Customization & Flexibility

No two businesses operate the same way, and a rigid, one-size-fits-all system can create more problems than it solves. Look for platforms that allow for customization — so you can tailor workflows, reporting, and automation to fit your specific needs.


### 5. Test Before You Invest

Demos aren’t just about flashy sales presentations — take full advantage of trial periods, ask tough questions, and get hands-on experience. Make sure the system is intuitive for your team and that it genuinely streamlines processes instead of adding complexity.


### 6. Future-Proof Your Investment

Technology evolves fast, and a system that works today might become outdated tomorrow. Look for vendors that prioritize innovation, regular updates, and scalability — so you’re not stuck replacing your software in a few years.

The right system should make your business run smoother, not more complicated. Whether it’s ERP, CRM, or both, make sure it aligns with your operations, growth goals, and future scalability.


## ERP and CRM: The Keys to Sustained Success

This isn’t an either-or decision — both ERP and and CRM are essential for businesses that want to scale efficiently and deliver exceptional customer experiences. A CRM helps you build and maintain strong customer relationships, while an ERP streamlines operations and ensures your business runs like a well-oiled machine. But the real benefits come when these systems are fully integrated, eliminating data silos, improving workflow efficiency, and giving teams real-time insights to make smarter decisions.

To stay competitive — especially in today’s, fast-moving business landscape — you need an ERP-CRM solution that doesn’t just work, but works together. With Tailor, you can have a seamlessly integrated platform that connects your customer relationships with your core business operations, ensuring you have the tools you need to grow, adapt, and thrive.

Ready to unify your business and drive long-term success? [Schedule a demo with Tailor today](https://www.tailor.tech/demo).

thumbnail_ERP vs CRM, Which System Does Your Business Need.png

ERP vs CRM, Which System Does Your Business Need.png

ERP and CRM software streamline operations and improve business outcomes. But which one do you actually need? And how do they work together to fuel growth?

ERP vs CRM: Which System Does Your Business Need?

# AI in ERP: How Artificial Intelligence is Shaping the Future of ERP Software

ERP systems used to be glorified filing cabinets — storing data, tracking inventory, keeping the books tidy. Necessary? Sure. Exciting? Not really. Then AI walked in, kicked over the filing cabinet, and said, "We can do better."

We’re talking about ERP systems that don’t just process data but interpret it. Predict trends. Automate decisions. AI isn’t just an upgrade — it’s a reinvention, turning rigid, rule-based software into something intuitive, adaptable, and borderline clairvoyant. If you’re still using an ERP that relies on manual input for every decision, you’re leaving efficiency — and revenue — on the table.


## **How AI Turns ERP into a Powerhouse**

Old-school ERPs required humans to make sense of their outputs. AI flips that script. It analyzes historical trends, anticipates future demand, and automates repetitive processes so you’re not spending hours on data entry and troubleshooting. It also helps organizations shift from reactive decision-making to proactive strategies.


### **Predictive Analytics: From Guesswork to Strategy**

AI-powered ERP systems don’t just spit out data — they tell you what’s coming next. Forecasting demand, preventing stockouts, optimizing procurement — this isn’t about reacting, it’s about staying ten steps ahead. Businesses using AI-driven forecasting have reported [up to 30% fewer stockouts and significantly lower holding costs](https://www.turing.com/case-study/ai-demand-forecasting-solutions). With these real-time insights, organizations can fine-tune pricing models, adjust inventory levels, and mitigate potential risks before they become costly problems.


### **Automation That Actually Works**

ERP used to mean mountains of manual work: approving invoices, reconciling ledgers, updating inventory. AI eliminates that grind. Invoice processing? Automated. Fraud detection? Instantaneous. Financial planning? Forecasted and optimized in real-time. By opening up the "black box" of ERP databases and truly integrating your data with AI, your people can focus on strategy (instead of spreadsheets).

And it doesn’t stop there. AI-driven ERPs enable self-correcting workflows — if a discrepancy arises, the system can automatically flag it, suggest corrections, and even initiate corrective action without human intervention. This drastically reduces errors and improves operational efficiency.


## **Breaking Free from One-Size-Fits-All ERP**

Traditional ERP systems force businesses to adapt to *them* instead of the other way around. That’s outdated thinking. Modern ERPs learn, evolve, and mold themselves to the way your business actually runs. 


### **Smart Customization**

AI-powered ERPs analyze workflows and suggest optimizations — no IT overhaul required. Instead of manually tweaking settings, the system adapts on its own, adjusting to operational shifts as they happen. This allows businesses to scale and pivot without being restricted by rigid software structures.


### **Tailored Insights, Not Generic Reports**

Why settle for static dashboards when AI can provide personalized insights based on how you and your team actually use the system? AI-driven reporting ensures you get actionable intelligence, not a pile of numbers to sort through. These insights can highlight cost-reduction opportunities and identify inefficiencies — and intelligently inform planning by using historical performance to predict future market conditions.


## **What to Look for in an AI-First ERP**

A good AI-powered ERP isn’t just about automation — it’s about integration. Your ERP should play well with your CRM, ecommerce platform, analytics tools, and beyond. Here’s what separates the best from the rest:



* **Real-time data processing.** No more waiting on overnight batch updates. Get insights as they happen.
* **Seamless integration.** AI-powered ERPs should connect effortlessly with the tools you already use.
* **Natural language processing (NLP).** Ask your ERP questions the same way you would a colleague — no SQL queries required.
* **Advanced security.** AI-powered fraud detection flags suspicious activity before it becomes a problem.
* **Scalability.** AI-driven ERPs grow with your business, allowing for seamless expansion without significant system overhauls.


## **AI ERP vs. Traditional ERP: A Scalability Showdown**

Scalability is the biggest ERP pain point. As businesses grow, traditional ERPs buckle under the weight, but AI-driven solutions are designed to scale, ensuring you never have to replace your entire system just to keep up.


### **Learning and Adapting on the Fly**

ERPs with built-in AI improve over time, analyzing patterns and refining processes without human intervention, whereas traditional systems require constant tweaking and costly upgrades. AI’s self-learning capabilities mean businesses no longer need to constantly adjust workflows manually — the system does it for them.


### **Cost Efficiency Without Compromise**

Yes, AI ERP systems require an upfront investment, but the long-term savings from automation, predictive analytics, and reduced downtime pay for themselves. AI-driven ERPs minimize waste, optimize supply chain operations, and help businesses improve margins by providing strategic recommendations on pricing, vendor selection, and resource allocation. 


<table>
  <tr>
   <td>Feature
   </td>
   <td>Traditional ERP
   </td>
   <td>AI-Powered ERP
   </td>
  </tr>
  <tr>
   <td>Data Processing
   </td>
   <td>Batch updates, delays
   </td>
   <td>Real-time analytics through API-first integrations
   </td>
  </tr>
  <tr>
   <td>Decision-Making
   </td>
   <td>Manual analysis required
   </td>
   <td>Predictive and automated
   </td>
  </tr>
  <tr>
   <td>Customization
   </td>
   <td>Predefined workflows
   </td>
   <td>Self-learning and adaptive to specific industries
   </td>
  </tr>
  <tr>
   <td>Automation
   </td>
   <td>Limited rule-based automation
   </td>
   <td>AI-driven hyperautomation
   </td>
  </tr>
  <tr>
   <td>Scalability
   </td>
   <td>Requires expensive upgrades
   </td>
   <td>Scales dynamically with business needs
   </td>
  </tr>
  <tr>
   <td>Cost Efficiency
   </td>
   <td>High operational costs
   </td>
   <td>Cost-saving through automation and optimization
   </td>
  </tr>
</table>



## **The AI Trends That Are Reshaping ERP**

AI in ERP isn’t a fad — it’s the future. Here’s where we see AI impacting the next generation of ERP:


### **Hyperautomation**

Gartner predicts that [70% of enterprises will deploy AI-powered automation by 2025](https://venturebeat.com/automation/gartner-report-70-of-organizations-will-implement-structured-automation-by-2025/?utm_source=chatgpt.com). The practice of hyperautomation — an approach that implements automation in as many business processes as possible — is already being employed across areas like supply chain logistics and financial forecasting. By combining AI, software robotic and low-code/no-code tools to augment their workforce, companies will be able to unlock new heights of efficiency by maximizing automation opportunities to augment their workforce.


### **AI-Powered Decision-Making**

Similar to hyperautomation, the next generation of ERPs won’t just suggest actions — they’ll take them. AI-driven decision frameworks and support systems can eliminate human bottlenecks by making real-time, data-backed choices. For example, businesses can enable AI-powered ERP tools to automatically adjust production schedules based on raw material availability or customer demand fluctuations. By outsourcing certain areas of decision-making, companies can minimize waste, capitalize on demand, and free up their workforce for more strategic work.


### **Industry-Specific AI Applications**

AI-driven ERPs can be engineered to be more specialized, catering to the nuances of different industries — like AI-powered dynamic pricing in retail or predictive maintenance in manufacturing. In healthcare, AI-powered ERPs can assist with patient record management and compliance tracking. While in logistics, these tools can optimize fleet routes and warehouse inventory distribution.

In particular, retail companies that manage multiple sales channels or deal with highly-customizable products (variants) are an underserved segment when it comes to efficient, intelligient ERP tools. More tailored ERP platforms can harmonize different channels like DTC and B2B by capturing order and shipping information at the API level — and then present that same data in a single, real-time dashboard.


## **Making the Leap to AI ERP: A Practical Guide**

Rolling out an AI-powered ERP is a strategic transformation, not a flip-the-switch scenario. Here’s how to do it right:



1. **Identify your pain points.** Where is your ERP slowing you down? AI should solve real problems, not just be a flashy add-on.
2. **Pick the right solution.** Not all AI ERPs are built the same. Choose one with scalability, integration capabilities, and strong AI features.
3. **Get your team on board.** AI requires a mindset shift. Investing in training ensures adoption and long-term success.
4. **Start small, then expand.** Implement AI in high-impact areas first, then scale across your organization.
5. **Continuously optimize.** AI learns over time. The more data it processes, the smarter it gets, so keep refining its usage.


## **ERP’s New Reality: Smarter, Faster, AI-Driven**

If you still think AI is some distant fantasy, think again — it's already here. Businesses are embracing AI-driven ERP solutions and gaining efficiency, agility, and a serious competitive edge. If you’re still operating on a traditional system, you’re running your business on yesterday’s logic.

The question is no longer whether AI will transform ERP. It’s whether you’re ready to lead the change or get left behind. If scaling smarter, automating the mundane, and making data-driven decisions sound like a plan, it’s time to explore AI-driven ERP solutions that align with your growth ambitions.

Tailor’s AI-powered ERP seamlessly integrates with existing business tools, transforming raw data into actionable insights in real time. By leveraging machine learning and intelligent automation, Tailor optimizes inventory management, streamlines order fulfillment, and enhances forecasting — eliminating inefficiencies before they become problems. And with predictive analytics and adaptive workflows, businesses using Tailor’s AI-driven ERP can scale smarter, reduce manual workload, and make data-backed decisions with confidence.

See Tailor’s AI-powered ERP in action — [schedule your demo today](https://www.tailor.tech/demo).

thumbnail_AI in ERP - How Artificial Intelligence is Shaping the Future of ERP Software.png

AI in ERP - How Artificial Intelligence is Shaping the Future of ERP Software.png

AI in ERP isn’t just an upgrade — it’s a reinvention, turning rigid, rule-based software into something intuitive, adaptable, and borderline clairvoyant.

thumbnail_ai-in-erp

ai-in-erp

AI in ERP: How Artificial Intelligence is Shaping the Future of ERP Software

# **What Is an ERP System? A Beginner's Guide to ERP**

Running a business is a balancing act. You’ve got inventory to track, orders to fulfill, finances to manage, and customers to keep happy. The problem? When you’re using a patchwork of disconnected software and spreadsheets, things start slipping through the cracks. Orders get delayed. Financial reports don’t match. Your team spends more time fixing errors than focusing on growth.

Enter ERP, aka Enterprise Resource Planning. Think of it as the nerve center of your business — a system that brings all your essential operations under one roof. Whether you’re [a retailer juggling multiple sales channels](https://www.tailor.tech/blog/posts/6-erp-trends-transforming-retail-industry-2024) or a growing company struggling with inefficient processes, an ERP system can help you streamline, scale, and stay competitive.

[ERP adoption is growing rapidly](https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/ERP-market), but not all ERP systems are created equal. Some are rigid and outdated, forcing businesses to work around clunky software instead of focusing on what matters. The best ERP systems are built for flexibility, integration, and automation — empowering your business, not holding it back.

Let's take a closer look at how ERPs work, what they consist of, and more.


## **What Is Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)?**

ERP is a type of software that helps businesses manage and integrate their core operations. From finance and accounting to supply chain, inventory, human resources, and customer relationship management (CRM), ERP systems consolidate these functions into a single, unified platform. This allows for real-time data sharing across departments, improving efficiency, accuracy, and collaboration.

Unlike standalone software solutions that handle just one part of a business, ERP connects all of the critical processes in an organization, creating a single source of truth so companies can streamline workflows, reduce manual tasks, and make data-driven decisions. Modern ERP systems are typically cloud-based, which means more flexibility, scalability, and accessibility for businesses of all sizes.


## **How ERP Systems Work**

While ERP systems bring everything under one roof, the magic is in how they do it. At their core, ERPs operate through a central database that connects all business functions. This central hub ensures that data flows seamlessly between departments, eliminating the need for manual data entry or duplicate records.

When a customer places an order, for example, the ERP system doesn’t just update the sales ledger — it automatically adjusts inventory levels, notifies the warehouse for fulfillment, and updates financial records in real time. This interconnected flow of information ensures that every part of the business is working with the same up-to-date data.

ERPs also rely heavily on automation. Routine tasks like invoicing, payroll processing, and inventory tracking are handled automatically, reducing the risk of human error and freeing up employees to focus on higher-value work. Most modern ERP platforms incorporate real-time analytics, allowing businesses to monitor performance, identify trends, and make data-driven decisions without waiting for end-of-month reports.

In other words, ERP systems are the operational backbone of a business, designed to keep everything connected, efficient, and agile as your company grows.


## **What’s Inside an ERP?**

Think an ERP is one big piece of software? [Think again](https://www.winman.com/blog/bid/311468/how-does-erp-software-differ-from-standalone-business-applications). It’s a collection of powerful tools that keep every part of your business in sync, like the command center for your entire operation. The best ERPs are modular, meaning you can start with what you need and add more as you grow.

Here’s what makes ERP software tick:

• **Financial management.** No more reconciling spreadsheets at the last minute. A great ERP tracks every dollar coming in and out in real time, automates invoicing, and keeps your cash flow predictable. Taxes, compliance, and financial reporting? Handled.

• **Inventory and order management.** Whether you’re running an e-commerce shop or managing a massive warehouse, your ERP keeps tabs on stock levels, automates reordering, and prevents costly stockouts or overstocking. When an order comes in, fulfillment is seamless.

• **Customer relationship management (CRM).** Your customers aren’t numbers — they’re your business. A built-in CRM gives you a 360-degree view of every interaction, helping sales and support teams build stronger relationships and close deals faster.

• **Human resources.** Managing payroll, tracking PTO, and keeping up with employee records shouldn’t take all day. An ERP centralizes HR tasks, making hiring, scheduling, and compliance way easier.

• **Ecommerce and sales integration.** Selling on Shopify, Amazon, and your own site? [Your ERP syncs inventory, tracks orders, and makes sure all your sales channels are up to date](https://www.shopify.com/enterprise/blog/erp-integration), so you never have to worry about overselling or missing an order.

• **Supply chain management.** Keep vendors, shipments, and production running like a well-oiled machine. A strong ERP optimizes procurement, tracks supplier performance, and ensures products move efficiently from point A to point B.

• **AI and automation.** The future of ERP won’t be about tracking — [it’ll be about predicting](https://www.top10erp.org/blog/ai-in-erp). AI-powered ERPs flag inefficiencies, automate workflows, and provide real-time insights that help you make smarter decisions faster.

Not every business needs every module, and that’s the beauty of a great ERP: You can start with the essentials and add more as you grow. No bloated software, no wasted budget — just a system that works *for* you.


## **How an ERP Can Transform Your Business — and Save It from Chaos**

An ERP is the difference between a business that runs like a machine and one that’s constantly putting out fires. When everything is connected, automated, and optimized, your business moves faster, costs go down, and customers get a better experience.

Here’s what an ERP brings to the table:

• **Eliminates manual busywork.** No more wasting hours on spreadsheets, double data entry, or reconciling mismatched reports. ERPs automate everything from invoicing to order fulfillment, freeing up your team to focus on what actually grows your business.

• **Improves decision-making.** Instead of scrambling to piece together reports from multiple platforms, an ERP gives you real-time data at your fingertips. Sales trends, cash flow, inventory levels — it’s all there, updated automatically, so you can make smarter moves, faster.

• **Enhances the customer experience.** A customer places an order, and the ERP updates inventory, sends a shipping notification, and syncs tracking details seamlessly. No delays, no confusion, no frustrated customers wondering where their order is.

• **Reduces costs and waste.** Overstocking drains your cash. Stockouts lose you sales. Manual errors lead to expensive mistakes. An ERP helps you optimize inventory, streamline operations, and cut unnecessary costs before they pile up.

• **Scales with your growth.** Whether you’re adding new locations, launching a new product line, or expanding internationally, [a strong ERP grows with you](https://www.tailor.tech/blog/posts/Retail-Growth-Stages-and-When-to-Adopt-an-ERP). No need to overhaul your system every time your business levels up.

An ERP doesn’t just organize your business — it transforms it. More efficiency, fewer headaches, and a system that actually helps you move forward instead of holding you back.


## **Why Seamless Integration Matters**

Your business already runs on software: e-commerce platforms, CRM tools, accounting systems, shipping solutions. The last thing you need is an ERP that forces you to throw all of that out and start over. ERPs are supposed to enhance your operations, not disrupt them.

[Integration is the difference](https://www.tailor.tech/integrations) between a system that works *with* you and one that works *against* you. When an ERP seamlessly connects with your existing tools, data flows effortlessly between platforms. That means when a customer places an order, inventory updates in real time, finance gets immediate visibility into revenue, and your sales team has access to the latest customer interactions — all without anyone lifting a finger.

Without strong integration, an ERP becomes just another disconnected system — another platform that creates more work instead of solving problems. Imagine trying to run e-commerce orders through an ERP that doesn’t sync with your website, or tracking inventory manually because your ERP doesn’t communicate with your warehouse management system. That’s not efficiency; that’s a nightmare.

[Tailor’s ERP is designed to fit into your existing ecosystem](https://www.tailor.tech/demo), not replace it. Whether you’re using Shopify, QuickBooks, HubSpot, or any other tool that keeps your business running, Tailor connects everything into a single, streamlined system. No disruptions, no lost data — just a smarter, more connected way to operate.


## **How AI Is Changing ERP Forever**

ERPs used to be all about data entry: punching in numbers, updating spreadsheets, and manually tracking orders. Not anymore. AI-powered ERPs are changing the game, turning what used to be slow, repetitive work into an automated, self-optimizing system that actually helps businesses move faster.

Imagine knowing exactly how much inventory you’ll need next month before you even place an order. AI-driven forecasting analyzes past sales, seasonal trends, and even customer behavior to help businesses make smarter purchasing decisions. No more overstocking. No more stockouts. Just the right amount of inventory at the right time. And it doesn’t stop there — AI automates invoice processing, flags potential supply chain delays, and keeps financial reports updated in real time, so you’re not scrambling to fix errors at the last minute.

AI-powered ERP also makes fraud detection easier. Instead of manually combing through transactions looking for red flags, AI scans purchase patterns and instantly flags anything suspicious. It’s like having an extra set of eyes on your books 24/7. And when it comes to pricing, AI helps businesses stay competitive by adjusting product prices based on real-time demand, competitor trends, and historical data — no more guesswork.

Even customer service gets an upgrade. AI chatbots and automated workflows make sure customers get answers fast, whether they’re tracking an order or submitting a support ticket. And behind the scenes, AI spots inefficiencies before they become expensive problems — whether that’s an underperforming supplier, a slow-moving product, or an order fulfillment bottleneck.

This isn’t about replacing human workers. It’s about eliminating the grunt work so your team can focus on strategy, creativity, and growth. AI-powered ERP doesn’t just keep the lights on — it helps businesses think ahead, move faster, and operate smarter.


## **Your Business Is Growing — Can Your ERP Keep Up?**

Here’s the thing about growth: It doesn’t wait for your software to catch up. What worked when you were processing a handful of orders a day won’t cut it when you’re shipping hundreds. The same goes for financial tracking, inventory management, and every other moving part of your business. If your ERP can’t scale with you, it’s not just a software problem — it’s a growth problem.

A scalable ERP makes expansion seamless. Whether you’re adding new sales channels, opening a second location, or rolling out a new product line, your ERP should adjust without skipping a beat. Orders, inventory, and financial data should sync across every platform in real time, whether you’re selling in-store, online, or through a dozen different marketplaces.

And let’s talk about speed. If your ERP slows down as your data grows, that’s a red flag. The best systems are built to handle increasing volume without lagging or forcing you into costly upgrades. That’s why [cloud-based ERPs have become the go-to for businesses that need flexibility](https://www.netsuite.com.au/portal/au/resource/articles/on-premise-cloud-erp.shtml). Instead of worrying about storage limits, server capacity, or licensing headaches, cloud-based systems scale on demand — meaning you can grow without hitting a wall.

Customization matters, too. A rigid, one-size-fits-all ERP might work at first, but as your business evolves, you need the ability to add new features, tweak workflows, and integrate with emerging technologies. That’s why modular ERPs are the future. You start with what you need and build from there, no unnecessary clutter, no wasted money on features you’ll never use.

Scalability isn’t optional — it’s the difference between staying ahead or scrambling to catch up. Your ERP should support growth, not stand in the way of it. Tailor’s ERP is built for businesses that refuse to be boxed in, offering a flexible, composable system that grows with you instead of holding you back.


## **How to Pick the Ideal ERP for Your Business**

An ERP is the system that keeps your business running. The right one makes everything more efficient, scalable, and automated. The wrong one? It becomes an expensive headache that slows you down.

So how do you pick the right ERP? Start by asking the right questions:

• **Does it integrate seamlessly?** Your ERP should work with your existing tools, not force you to rip and replace everything.

• **Is it customizable?** One-size-fits-all won’t cut it. Your ERP should fit your workflows, not the other way around.

• **Will it scale?** Growth shouldn’t mean outgrowing your software. Make sure your ERP can handle increasing transactions, users, and complexity.

• **Does it automate manual tasks?** If your ERP isn’t reducing busywork, it’s not doing its job. Look for AI-driven automation that saves time and eliminates errors.

The best ERPs are built for businesses that need flexibility, automation, and seamless integration. No wasted features, no unnecessary complexity — just a system that grows with you and works the way you do.


## **The Last ERP You’ll Ever Need: Why Tailor Adapts As You Grow**

Your ERP should be a competitive advantage, not a burden. [Tailor’s headless ERP](https://www.tailor.tech) is built for businesses that need flexibility, automation, and scalability — without the complexity of traditional systems.

Through seamless integrations, AI-powered automation, and a modular design, Tailor’s ERP evolves alongside your business. Whether you’re a fast-growing e-commerce brand or an established retailer looking to streamline operations, Tailor has the solution for you.

Ready to see how Tailor can help your business run smarter, scale faster, and stay ahead of the competition? [Book a demo today](https://www.tailor.tech/demo).

thumbnail_what-is-erp-software.jpg

what-is-erp-software.jpg

ERP software helps businesses manage and integrate their core operations, allowing real-time data sharing and improving efficiency, accuracy, and collaboration.

What Is an ERP System? A Beginner's Guide to ERP

When you think of ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning), you might imagine a powerful integrated software that connects every part of your business to streamline operations. However, ERP is more than just software - it represents a philosophy of connections. The entire premise of an ERP encourages you to view your operations and functions as a conductor would an orchestra, bringing together every element to create harmony and efficiency. At its core, ERP fosters a more holistic approach to managing your business.

Businesses within the retail industry, in particular, are especially reliant on ERPs due to the complexity and interconnectedness of their operations. As a retail business owner, you need to face challenges like managing inventory, dealing with international regulations (if you’re operating globally), juggling with multiple sales channels, customizing customer experiences, and so on. ERP helps you see your business as a unified whole, not a collection of fragmented parts, enabling better management and growth.

With that said, ERP isn’t a magic solution. It won’t fix every problem, but it can highlight inefficiencies and areas for improvement. So, when is the right time to adopt an ERP? 

Let’s get into it.

## When Should You Adopt an ERP?

While we would love to tell everyone to get an ERP, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. ERP systems streamline operations, expose inefficiencies, and help you focus on growth, but timing is key. Understanding your business’s growth stage and pain points will help you decide if it’s time to level up with an ERP.

In this article, we’ll dive into three key stages of retail growth based on our experience with customers, exploring the tools commonly used at each stage, and the signs that signal it’s time to adopt an ERP (or maybe even change your current ERP). 

At Tailor, we’ve worked with many retailers who have navigated these challenges as they scale.

## Stage 1 - "The Scrappy Stage”

In the early days, your focus is on laying a strong foundation. You’re experimenting with your products, managing a small number of products and SKUs, and most likely running things solo or with a very small team. Revenue is often minimal or even in the negatives at this stage. Manual processes are the norm, and off-the-shelf tools are usually sufficient to meet your needs.

### **Tools**

**Sales, Fulfillment & Supply Chain**

At this early stage of your business, you are likely using platforms like Shopify or Etsy to manage your online sales. These platforms provide a more optimized experience for small-scale operations, offering things from product listings to payment processing and order tracking. Shopify even includes its own shipping service, while Etsy directly integrates with carriers like USPS and FedEx for simplifying fulfillment and shipment tracking. These tools are easy to use, making them ideal for businesses with low order volumes and straightforward fulfillment requirements. With no need for third-party logistics or external providers, these services help you run operations smoothly.

**Accounting & Finance**

In terms of your accounting and finances, your revenue may not yet be substantial enough to warrant [advanced accounting software](https://www.tailor.tech/blog/posts/accounting-erp-software-guide), so you’re likely relying on basic tools like spreadsheets or Airtable to track your finances. These tools are suitable for small businesses managing limited transactions and relatively simple financial data.

### **Challenges**

**Manual Operations**

In this early stage, challenges are relatively minimal, given the smaller scale of operations. Your product offerings are limited and your product variations are also usually simple, which means the complexity of managing inventory is manageable. Revenue is still growing, and much of the focus is on refining the product and building your brand. So, while manual data entry, like tracking revenue or reconciling inventory, may be part of the process, it’s a manageable trade-off because you are focused is on proving your product rather than tackling significant operational challenges.

### Is this the right time to get an ERP?

Not every retail business at this stage is ready for an ERP. If you are operating primarily as Direct-to-Consumer (D2C) with a relatively simple product offering and few complexities in product variation, pricing, or fulfillment, an ERP might be overkill at this stage.

Tools and e-commerce platforms or integrated point-of-sale systems, may be sufficient to support your needs. These platforms are often more affordable and easier to implement, making them a better fit for businesses that are just beginning to scale or are focused on a single channel of distribution.

## Stage 2 - "The Expansion Stage”

The “Expansion Stage” is where your business transitions from a one-person operation to a more structured organization with increasingly complex operations. Additionally, your revenue per month may range between $1 - $5 million, or your company might have between 10 to 50 employees and is actively scaling, experiencing significant growth in both employees, revenue and customer base. Product-wise, you could also be managing a mix of core products, seasonal items, and/or limited-edition releases, each requiring distinct stock management and fulfillment strategies.

### **Tools**

**Sales**

In terms of your sales, you are likely still using platforms like Shopify and Etsy to manage your online sales channels. These platforms offer integrated sales management features, including payment processing, order tracking, and basic customer relationship management. However, you may enter into wholesale deals, retail partnership, and other B2B opportunities as the brand gets more established. You may start to dabble into solutions for multi-channel selling, like BigCommerce, which helps you manage various sales channels from a single interface, streamlining your operations and improving scalability.

**Fulfillment & Supply Chain**

As the demand for you product increases and your SKU count and order volume grow, so does the complexity of your fulfillment and shipping processes. At this stage, basic integrated tools like Shopify’s Fulfillment Network (SFN) or Amazon’s Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) can still help optimize inventory storage and order fulfillment. However, you might begin to notice the fees associated with them as these costs impact profitability. It may actually nudge you to transition into more cost-effective and specialized third-party logistics (3PL) providers, which offer greater flexibility, scalability, and customization to meet your demands.

**Accounting & Finance**

At this stage, you’ve adopted tools for your accounting and finance processes. Solutions like QuickBooks offer essential features like expense tracking, revenue management, and cash flow analysis, all in one platform. They also integrate with sales channels, providing real-time financial data to support better decision-making. However, these tools are still limited because they are not designed for comprehensive accounting management, which can introduce new challenges as your business grows.

### **Challenges**

**Inventory Management**

As your product assortment expands and you sell through multiple channels, managing inventory is difficult. Without an integrated system, keeping track of stock across different platforms can lead to issues like stock-outs, overselling, or excessive inventory. This lack of real-time visibility into inventory can result in missed sales opportunities and customer dissatisfaction, directly affecting your bottom line.

**Operational Efficiency**

As your teams expands for sales, marketing, fulfillment, and finance, using fragmented tools can create operational friction. The lack of integration between systems leads to data silos, delays in communication, and an increase in manual data entry. Managing these workflows efficiently requires adopting systems that integrate across departments, automate processes, and provide real-time insights. Without this integration, bottlenecks can occur, reducing overall effectiveness.

### **Is this the right time to get an ERP?**

If you are finding it harder to manage inventory across multiple platforms or experiencing friction due to disconnected systems, as stated in the challenges above, an ERP could be the solution. By centralizing operations and automating key processes, an [ERP system](https://www.tailor.tech/blog/posts/what-is-an-erp-system-a-beginners-guide-to-erp) can help coordinate inventory tracking, improve cross-departmental coordination, and reduce manual work. These efficiencies are critical as you scale, ensuring that growth doesn’t come at the cost of operational smoothness.

**B2B Operations & Pricing Complexity**

If you are operating as Business-to-Business (B2B) with custom pre-orders, complex pricing structures, or unique order fulfillment needs, an ERP could be essential for streamlining operations. B2B businesses often face more intricate requirements, such as tailored pricing models for different customers, bulk orders, or managing complex inventory levels across multiple channels. In a case such as this, an ERP system can help manage these complexities more efficiently by centralizing information and automating processes, reducing the risk of errors, and providing greater visibility into operations.

> #### Example of a B2B company: A Custom Promotional Products Company
>This type of B2B company specializes in creating branded products like custom t-shirts, mugs, tote bags, pens, and other items with a company’s logo or design. Clients are typically other businesses looking for promotional items for events, conferences, or corporate giveaways.
>
>***Custom Pre-Orders:***
>Clients may need to place pre-orders for large quantities of promotional items ahead of a major event. This could include custom designs, specific color requests, or tailored packaging that requires lead time planning and coordination.
>
>***Unique Order Fulfillment Needs:***
>Some items might need specialized inventory management, like keeping stock of blank products in various colors or sizes, and others require unique packaging or shipping instructions. Additionally, managing production timelines for custom orders and ensuring delivery by specific dates adds another layer of complexity.
>
>***Complex Pricing Structures:***
>Pricing for custom orders can vary vastly based on the quantity of items, the type of product, and any additional services. The price per unit might also drop as the quantity ordered increases, but custom or unique features might increase the price significantly.

## Stage 3 - “Expanding Your Brand”

At this stage of growth, your brand has gained traction and you have established a loyal customer base. Expanding your reach and scaling your operations to meet growing demand is a primary focus and the complexity of your business operations continue to increase. You are optimizing your marketing efforts, and refining your customer experience. You may be bringing over $5 million in revenue per month, and your team may be much larger - ranging from 50 to 200 employees. Additionally, you may be exploring international markets, launching even more product lines, or working with multiple retail partners.

### Tools

The tools, integrations, and processes that served you in Stage 2 are now causing significant friction in your workflows. The added complexity impacts your efficiency, making it clear that your systems, operations, and technologies need to evolve to support the next stage of growth.

**Sales**

By now, your business likely operates across multiple sales channels, including e-commerce, brick-and-mortar retail, and possibly even international sales. With an increasing customer base, the demand for automation, real-time insights, and seamless integration across platforms becomes crucial. You may still rely on tools like Shopify or BigCommerce, but at this stage, these platforms cannot be sufficient on their own to handle the complexity of pricing, promotions, and customer segmentation.

>*One of our clients in the fashion industry, who operates in both online and physical retail spaces, found that their existing tools were struggling to keep up as they expanded. Their operations were becoming increasingly fragmented, and they found it difficult to scale their pricing and inventory management across different sales channels. They realized that their current systems lacked the necessary flexibility to support the complexity of their sales strategy.*

**Fulfillment & Supply Chain**

Your inventory is large, and your supply chain is complex to say the least. You might be working with multiple suppliers, managing larger volumes of orders, and dealing with a myriad of shipping and fulfillment requirements. You have surpassed using fulfillment partners like ShipStation and are reliant entirely on 3PL or even in-house warehouses, which requires a dedicated warehouse management solution. 

>One of our clients in the jewelry industry, which had previously relied on third-party fulfillment services, began facing challenges as their order volume grew. Their fulfillment partner was unable to handle the increased volume efficiently, causing delays and errors in order processing. To mitigate this, they explored a more centralized system that integrated inventory, order processing, and shipping across multiple channels, reducing bottlenecks and improving their customer experience.

**Accounting & Finance**

Managing finances at this stage is vital as your revenue grows, operating costs rise, and you manage relationships with more suppliers and customers. While tools like QuickBooks or Xero may have served you well earlier, they may no longer offer the financial oversight required at this level. Effective cash flow management, budgeting, forecasting, and handling multi-currency transactions, especially if you’ve expanded internationally, is essential.

### Challenges

**Operational Complexity**

Your business at this point has a number of tasks, employees, and touch-points that has grown exponentially. What worked for a small team is now a bottleneck for a larger operation. This complexity makes it difficult to maintain efficiency and accuracy without introducing more manual work, which is both time-consuming and prone to errors.

>One of our clients in the fashion sector faced similar growing pains. As their team and product catalog expanded, they found that manual data entry between sales, inventory, and accounting systems was becoming unsustainable. Their reliance on fragmented tools led to inefficiencies, errors, and a slow-moving process.

**Data Silos**

Your sales, inventory, fulfillment, and finance tools are all operating independently, which means data is completely fragmented across systems. This siloed data makes it difficult to get a comprehensive view of your operations, hindering your ability to make informed decisions. For instance, discrepancies between inventory levels and sales forecasts can lead to overstocking or stock-outs, impacting customer satisfaction and your revenue.

>A client we work with in the accessories space faced challenges with data fragmentation as they scaled. Different departments were using separate platforms, making it nearly impossible to synchronize operations effectively. This resulted in stock-outs, fulfillment delays, and errors in customer orders, which ultimately hurt their brand.

### Is this the right time to get an ERP?

Yes. The challenges at this stage are significant, especially if you have solidified your brand and have a loyal, recurring customer base. Interestingly, you may actually already be using ERP modules or lightweight solutions like ZoHo or Odoo, but if you’re still facing issues with operational complexity and data silos, it’s a sign to reassess your ERP approach.

**New Markets**

Operating on a global scale is a strong indicator that your business may need an ERP system. It comes with a unique set of challenges, including navigating new regulations, tax requirements, fulfillment complexities, and managing multiple currencies. Relying on existing tools to handle this growth is often unsustainable. Failing to comply with laws, such as tax obligations or data regulations, can lead to hefty fines, reputational damage, and customer churn. The right ERP system can prevent all of that.

>One of our clients, a global accessory brand, faced significant challenges with cross-border tax requirements, currency conversions, and managing diverse product lines across different markets. They realized they needed an ERP to help handle these complexities and ensure seamless expansion into new markets.

## Are you ready for an ERP?

Deciding when to adopt an ERP is a significant step for any retailer and hinges on your business’s stage and growth trajectory. While the complexity and cost of an ERP might not make sense in the early “scrappy” days, it becomes valuable as your operations grow more complex.

At the right time, the right ERP can streamline processes, eliminate inefficiencies, and provide insights, from inventory tracking to financial forecasting, empowering you to make data-driven decisions. 

The right ERP can be the key to your company's growth.

## Need help?

Not sure if it’s the right time for an ERP? Let’s talk -  schedule a consultation and demo with Tailor to see how our ERP platform can streamline your operations, enhance scalability, and drive efficiency at any stage of growth! https://www.tailor.tech/demo

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Understanding your business’s growth stage and pain points will help you decide if it’s time to level up with an ERP.

Retail Growth Stages and When to Adopt an ERP

# 3 Tools to Supercharge Your Coding with Automation

In the fast-paced world of software development, efficiency isn't just a goal — it's a necessity. Developers are constantly seeking ways to streamline workflows, reduce manual tasks, and accelerate deployment cycles. Automation has emerged as a key strategy in achieving these objectives, offering tools that not only save time but also enhance code quality and scalability.

In this blog, we'll highlight three standout tools — [Replexica](https://replexica.com/en), [Mergent](https://mergent.co/), and [WarpBuild](https://www.warpbuild.com/) — that are revolutionizing the development landscape through automation. By integrating these solutions into your workflow, you can supercharge your coding process and stay ahead in the ultra-competitive tech arena.

## 1. Replexica: Simplify Localization with AI Precision

![Logo featuring a stylized E icon next to the word Replexica in white font on a black background.](https://proud-diamond-9f85b9c627.media.strapiapp.com/replexica_coding_automation_2346a87659.png)

Expanding your software's reach to a global audience requires effective localization. However, traditional localization methods can be time-consuming and prone to errors. Enter [Replexica](https://replexica.com/en), an AI-driven localization platform designed to automate and streamline this process.

### Why Localization Matters

Localization is more than just translation — it's about adapting your software to resonate with users in different regions. This includes ensuring linguistic accuracy, cultural sensitivity, and compliance with local regulations. For developers aiming to tap into international markets, effective localization can be a make-or-break factor.

### Key Features:

- **AI-powered translations.** Replexica utilizes advanced AI models to deliver accurate and context-aware translations, ensuring your software resonates with users worldwide.
- **Seamless integration.** With developer-friendly CLI tools, Replexica integrates effortlessly into existing CI/CD pipelines, allowing for continuous localization without disrupting your workflow.
- **Broad language support.** Supporting dozens of languages, including English, French, Spanish, German, and Chinese, Replexica caters to a diverse user base.

### Use Case

Imagine you're developing a mobile app aimed at a global market. Manually translating user interfaces and content into multiple languages can be daunting. Replexica automates this process, providing natural-sounding translations that enhance user experience across different regions. The result? Faster market entry, improved user retention, and a significant competitive advantage.

### Additional Benefits

- **More consistency.** AI-driven localization ensures a unified tone and message across languages.
- **Agility in updates.** With Replexica, you can update translations as your app evolves without delays.
- **Regulatory compliance.** Adapt your content to meet the legal requirements of specific regions.

### Getting Started

To integrate Replexica into your project, visit their [official website](https://replexica.com/en) and explore their documentation for detailed setup instructions. They offer tools and APIs tailored to both small teams and enterprise-grade deployments.

## 2. Mergent: Automate Background Tasks with Ease

![mergent coding automation. The image shows three white vertical bars set against a black background.](https://proud-diamond-9f85b9c627.media.strapiapp.com/mergent_coding_automation_bbb078e924.png)

Managing background jobs and scheduled tasks is a common challenge in software development. Traditional methods often involve complex infrastructure and manual oversight, but [Mergent](https://mergent.co/) offers a fully managed task queue solution that simplifies this aspect of development.

### Why Background Task Automation Is Crucial

From email notifications to database cleanups, background tasks keep applications running smoothly. Without proper management, these processes can become bottlenecks, leading to performance issues and frustrated users.

For instance, many e-commerce platforms rely on background tasks to send order confirmations, update inventory, and generate real-time analytics. Without an efficient system, these tasks can delay operations or result in errors.

### Key Features

- **Fully managed service.** Mergent handles the infrastructure, allowing developers to focus on building features rather than managing servers.
- **Scalability.** Capable of handling billions of tasks, Mergent scales effortlessly with your application's growth.
- **Flexible scheduling.** Supports both one-time and recurring tasks, providing flexibility in task management.

### Use Case

Suppose your application requires sending out daily email summaries to users. Setting up and maintaining cron jobs for this purpose can be cumbersome and prone to errors. Mergent automates this process, ensuring timely and reliable email dispatch without the need for manual intervention.

### Additional Benefits

- **Reduced maintenance overhead.** Mergent eliminates the need for complex server configurations.
- **Improved uptime.** A reliable background task system ensures critical operations run smoothly.
- **Analytics and monitoring.** Gain insights into task performance and address bottlenecks proactively.

### Getting Started

Explore Mergent's [documentation](https://mergent.co/) to learn how to integrate their task queue into your application seamlessly. They provide SDKs for popular programming languages and robust support for developers.

## 3. WarpBuild: Accelerate Your CI/CD Pipeline

![warpbuild coding automation. The image features the word WARPBUILD accompanied by the tagline 10x faster, 90% cheaper GitHub Actions runners. The background is dark with green streaks.](https://proud-diamond-9f85b9c627.media.strapiapp.com/warpbuild_coding_automation_7e5d999586.png)

Continuous integration and continuous deployment (CI/CD) are critical components of modern development workflows. However, slow build times and high costs can hinder productivity. [WarpBuild](https://www.warpbuild.com/) addresses these challenges by providing optimized GitHub Actions runners that enhance performance and reduce expenses.

### The Importance of Optimized CI/CD

In a competitive development environment, speed is everything. Delayed builds don't just slow down deployments — they also stall critical feedback loops. For instance, teams working on microservices need fast CI/CD processes to test and deploy updates without disrupting the overall system.

### Key Features

- **High-performance runners.** WarpBuild offers runners that are up to 10 times faster than standard options, significantly reducing build times.
- **Cost efficiency.** By optimizing resource usage, WarpBuild can lower CI/CD costs by up to 90 percent.
- **Customizable configurations.** Provides flexibility with custom runner configurations and deployment in various global regions.

### Use Case

For a development team experiencing prolonged build times during deployments, WarpBuild's high-speed runners can expedite the process, allowing for more frequent and reliable releases — so you can spend less time waiting and more time innovating.

### Additional Benefits

- **Global availability.** Choose from runners deployed in regions worldwide for low-latency builds.
- **Collaborative development.** Faster pipelines improve team collaboration and reduce friction.
- **Scalability.** Whether you're a small team or a global enterprise, WarpBuild adapts to your needs.

### Getting Started

Visit WarpBuild's [official website](https://www.warpbuild.com/) to learn more about their services and how to integrate them into your CI/CD pipeline. Their intuitive onboarding process ensures you can start seeing results immediately.

## Automation: The Heart of Your Development Workflow

Incorporating automation tools like Replexica, Mergent, and WarpBuild into your development workflow can lead to significant improvements across the board, from efficiency and scalability to code quality. With AI-driven localization, fully managed task scheduling, and optimized CI/CD processes, these tools will help your developers focus more on innovation — and less on manual tasks.

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By integrating these solutions into your workflow, you can supercharge your coding process and stay ahead in the ultra-competitive tech arena.

3 Tools to Supercharge Your Coding with Automation

# 5 Inventory Challenges Shopify Store Owners Face — and How the Best Software Solves Them

Running a Shopify store might seem like a dream come true. You’ve got your products, your audience, and the platform that makes it all work. But then, inventory management rears its ugly head.

It’s one of the trickiest parts of the job — keeping track of stock, preventing oversells, and avoiding the dreaded out-of-stock notifications that drive customers away. No one wants to see “Sold Out” on their best-sellers, right?

Thankfully, you’re not alone in this battle, and even better — there’s a solution. The right inventory management software can make these problems disappear faster than your morning cup of coffee.

In this blog, we’ll cover the five most common inventory challenges Shopify store owners face — and how the best inventory management software can fix them.

Let’s get into it.

## 1. Stockouts and Overselling: A Recipe for Disaster

![A silhouetted person with a clipboard stands between metal shelves in a well-lit, empty storage area for a Shopify store.](https://proud-diamond-9f85b9c627.media.strapiapp.com/inventory_management_shopify_stockout_overselling_ae91cb38d4.jpg)

Let’s start with the most painful inventory issue — stockouts and overselling. Picture this: A customer is ready to buy, their cart is full, and they’re about to check out. But right before they do, the item they want goes out of stock. Or worse, you oversell — i.e., you’ve got more orders than inventory, leading to cancelations, refunds, and a big customer service headache. It’s a nightmare, and it happens to the best of us.

But why? **The problem** often comes down to a lack of real-time inventory tracking. When your Shopify store inventory isn’t synced across sales channels (Shopify, Amazon, eBay, physical stores, etc.), there’s a lag between what you have on hand and what your customers think you have. One minute, you’re in the clear. The next, you’re drowning in oversells.

**The solution?** The best inventory management software for Shopify will automatically sync your inventory across all sales channels. Real-time stock updates mean no more guessing and no more “Sorry, this item is out of stock” messages at checkout. These tools also send automated low-stock alerts, giving you a heads-up when it’s time to reorder before you hit zero. Problem solved.

## 2. Overstocking and Dead Stock: Cash Tied Up in Unsellable Goods

Now, let’s swing to the other extreme: overstocking. It seems like a good idea at first. You want to make sure you’re never out of your best-sellers, so you order more than you need. But before you know it, that surplus inventory is collecting dust on your shelves, tying up your cash flow, and becoming what’s known as “dead stock.”

**The problem** here is often poor demand forecasting. When you don’t have data to tell you how much stock to order (or when to order it), you end up with excess inventory that’s either out of season or out of style. That’s money you could have spent elsewhere — on marketing, expanding your product line, or hiring more staff.

**The solution?** The best inventory management software for Shopify uses data-driven forecasting tools. It analyzes past sales trends and predicts future demand, helping you order the right amount of stock at the right time. You’ll avoid over-ordering, cut down on dead stock, and free up cash to reinvest in your business. Win-win.

## 3. Inaccurate Inventory Counts: The Silent Profit Killer

Ever sold an item online, only to realize later that it’s not actually in stock? That’s the result of inaccurate inventory counts. Maybe you’re using spreadsheets to track stock levels — or worse, tracking it all manually. Either way, human error creeps in, and before you know it, your records say one thing, but your physical inventory says another. Customers get upset. Your reputation takes a hit. And your profits? They virtually disappear.

**The problem** boils down to outdated or inefficient inventory tracking methods. If you’re still relying on manual processes or outdated software to manage stock levels, it’s only a matter of time before errors pile up.

**The solution?** The best inventory management software automates this entire process. It syncs inventory across all your Shopify sales channels in real time, ensuring your stock levels are always accurate. Forget about manually adjusting stock counts or cross-checking spreadsheets — automation is the name of the game here. And with it, you’ll never be left guessing whether or not you have enough product on hand.

## 4. Multichannel Inventory Management: Chaos Waiting to Happen

![A woman stands holding a laptop in a room with shopping bags, clothes on a rack, and a shoebox for a shopify store. The room has white walls and shelves.](https://proud-diamond-9f85b9c627.media.strapiapp.com/inventory_management_software_shopify_multichannel_9b60c98f20.jpg)

Running a Shopify store is one thing. But if you’re selling on multiple platforms — like Amazon, Etsy, or even a brick-and-mortar location — you’ve entered a whole new ballgame. Managing inventory across multiple sales channels without a centralized system is a recipe for chaos. Orders pour in from every direction, but your inventory doesn’t update fast enough. That’s when things start to break down.

**The problem** here is that Shopify, on its own, isn’t equipped to manage inventory across multiple channels. Each platform operates separately, and keeping everything in sync can feel like juggling knives.

**The solution?** The best inventory management software centralizes your multichannel inventory control. Whether you’re selling on Shopify, Amazon, or even your own storefront, this software keeps track of all your stock levels in one place. Orders, returns, and restocks are all reflected in real time, so you can confidently sell on every platform without worrying about inventory discrepancies.

## 5. Time-Consuming Manual Processes: Wasting Hours on Tedious Tasks

Before we finish, let’s talk about time. As a Shopify store owner, your time is precious. You don’t want to spend hours every day manually updating stock counts, reordering inventory, or dealing with spreadsheet nightmares. But without the right tools, that’s exactly what you end up doing.

**The problem** here is the manual nature of many inventory management processes. Even if you’re a pro at managing stock in Excel, the time it takes to update product quantities, calculate reorder points, and track orders could be better spent growing your business.

**The solution?** Automation. The best inventory management software for Shopify automates these tedious tasks, freeing up your time to focus on more important things. Whether it’s automatically updating inventory counts or sending reorder notifications when stock gets low, this software takes the guesswork and grunt work out of your day — so you can spend less time managing inventory and more time scaling your business.

## Tailor: Turning Shopify Woes into Wins

Inventory management doesn’t have to be a struggle. With the right tools, Shopify store owners can take all of those challenges — stockouts, overstocking, inaccurate counts, multichannel chaos, and time-sucking manual processes — and transform them into growth opportunities. And that’s where Tailor’s inventory management solution shines.

Tailor centralizes your entire inventory system, delivering real-time insights and automated tracking that put you back in control. Whether you’re dealing with complex multichannel sales or aiming to eliminate costly miscounts, Tailor’s software keeps your stock data accurate and effortlessly synced across all platforms. Advanced forecasting features help you stay ahead of demand, while automated stock updates and low-inventory alerts ensure you never run dry on your best-sellers or sink cash into dead stock. For Shopify store owners in need, it's the real deal.

Ready to optimize your inventory management and help your Shopify store thrive?

[Schedule your demo with Tailor today](https://www.tailor.tech/demo).

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Running a Shopify store might seem like a dream come true. But then, inventory management rears its ugly head.

5 Inventory Challenges Shopify Store Owners Face — and How the Best Software Solves Them

# How Inventory Management Software Enhances QuickBooks Online’s Accounting Power

Managing finances with QuickBooks Online? You’re not alone. It’s a popular choice for small to medium-sized businesses, known for its comprehensive suite of accounting features.

But here’s the thing: When it comes to managing inventory, [QuickBooks Online doesn’t always cut it](https://www.business.org/finance/inventory-management/quickbooks-inventory-review/). Sure, it can handle the basics, but to unlock its full potential, you need more. That’s why solutions like Tailor exist — to bridge the gap and turn QuickBooks Online into a powerhouse for both financial and inventory management.

## The Missing Piece: Why Inventory Management is Essential

Let’s break this down. QuickBooks Online is a beast at managing financials. You get powerful tools for invoicing, expense tracking, and financial reporting, but it falls short when dealing with more complex inventory scenarios.

Businesses relying on manual tracking or juggling spreadsheets know this pain all too well. Stock discrepancies, clunky reordering processes, and a lack of real-time visibility can snowball into bigger problems — like lost revenue, excess inventory, or unhappy customers.

The fix? Integrating inventory management software that enhances QuickBooks Online, turning it into a unified system that manages both your finances and your inventory with precision.

## How Inventory Management Software Enhances QuickBooks Online’s Strengths

![Two laptops on a desk, one using Quickbooks, next to charts and a clipboard with blank paper, showing data and graphs.](https://proud-diamond-9f85b9c627.media.strapiapp.com/inventory_management_quickbooks_reporting_data_6f14215fbf.jpg)

Adding the right inventory management solution doesn’t just solve logistical headaches — it can supercharge your financial management in ways you might not have considered. Let’s walk through how this integration works.

### Improved Data Syncing

Manual data entry between your inventory and accounting software increases the risk of errors. And you know what’s a recipe for disaster? Data that doesn’t match up. Imagine recording a big product return in your inventory but forgetting to update it in QuickBooks Online. Chaos.

The best inventory management software ensures real-time, bidirectional syncing. [Tailor’s inventory management solution](https://www.tailor.tech/templates/inventory-management-system), for example, offers seamless, real-time syncing with QuickBooks Online, ensuring every sale, return, or adjustment updates instantly across both systems. *So w*hen a sale is made, your inventory levels automatically update, and the financial impact is logged in QuickBooks Online. No discrepancies, no stress.

It’s the kind of automation that saves you time, minimizes human error, and keeps your financials rock-solid. And it’s especially useful for tackling inventory issues that plague so many growing e-commerce businesses.

### In-Depth Reporting

QuickBooks Online offers some solid financial reports, but when you bring inventory management software into the mix, your reporting game gets an upgrade. Tailor’s in depth reporting gives you granular insights into inventory costs, turnover rates, and profit margins. Want to know which products are bleeding money and which are flying off the shelves? Integrated reports make it easy.

And the best part? You can generate reports that blend financial and inventory data, giving you a 360-degree view of your business performance. Think of it as having a crystal ball for more intelligent decision-making.

### Better Forecasting

Inventory forecasting isn’t just about guessing what you might sell — it’s about making data-driven predictions that affect everything from budget allocations to supplier negotiations. By integrating inventory management software with QuickBooks Online, you can leverage historical sales data, seasonal trends, and lead times to forecast demand accurately.

So instead of scrambling to restock a bestseller after it sells out, you anticipate demand ahead of time and place your orders accordingly. Or better yet, you avoid overstocking items that historically sit in your warehouse collecting dust. It’s strategic, proactive inventory management that syncs seamlessly with your financial goals.

### Automated Processes

Let’s face it: Nobody has time for manual inventory updates. But Tailor takes automation to the next level, handling everything from stock updates to purchase orders — so you can focus more on growth and less on tedious processes like tracking stock levels, generating purchase orders, and managing returns. For businesses that deal with high sales volumes or multiple sales channels, this level of automation is a game-changer.

QuickBooks Online users benefit even more from this automation. For example, if your inventory software automatically logs every transaction, QuickBooks Online can focus on what it does best: managing the financial impact. Your whole operation becomes leaner, faster, and less prone to human error, while automation can keep your business scalable as it grows.

## Features to Look for in Inventory Management Software for QuickBooks Online

Not all inventory management software is created equal*,* solutions with seamless QuickBooks Online integration [provide a significant advantage for growing businesses](https://www.usnews.com/360-reviews/business/best-inventory-management-software)*.* 

To get the most out of your software investment, look for these must-have inventory management features:

1. **Seamless integration.** You want software that offers real-time, bidirectional syncing with QuickBooks Online. Data should flow effortlessly between the two systems, keeping everything up-to-date without manual input.
2. **Comprehensive inventory tracking.** Choose a solution that can handle multi-location stock management, sales channel integration, and real-time stock updates. If you operate both an e-commerce store and a brick-and-mortar location, this is crucial.
3. **Advanced analytics.** Your inventory software should provide robust analytics and reporting tools that inform smarter business decisions. Metrics like inventory turnover, gross profit per SKU, and sales performance are key to financial and operational success.
4. **Scalability.** As your business grows, your inventory management software should grow with you. Look for a solution that can scale up to handle higher sales volumes and more complex inventory needs.

## The Business Impact: Financial Strategy Meets Inventory Precision

![A person in a colorful apron uses a card reader in a pottery shop, surrounded by shelves filled with ceramics.](https://proud-diamond-9f85b9c627.media.strapiapp.com/inventory_management_quickbooks_retail_business_dead7e1add.jpg)

By now, it’s clear: Integrating inventory management software with QuickBooks Online transforms inventory control from a logistical headache into a strategic advantage. The combined power of accurate financial tracking and automated inventory management can elevate your business operations, enabling data-driven decisions that drive profitability.

Consider a small retail business selling handcrafted goods online and in a physical store. Before integrating inventory management software, they struggled with stockouts, mismanaged returns, and lost sales. Financial data and inventory records were rarely aligned, leading to frustrating end-of-month reconciliations.

After implementing an inventory management system that seamlessly integrated with QuickBooks Online, everything changed. Real-time data updates allowed them to keep stock levels optimized, automated purchase orders kept suppliers in check, and the financial reporting was more accurate than ever. The result? Higher profit margins, improved cash flow, and a business ready to scale.

Think of it this way: QuickBooks Online gives you the financial foundation, but inventory management software builds a robust, data-informed strategy on top of it. Whether you want to reduce waste, optimize stock levels, or forecast seasonal trends, this integration is the secret weapon your business needs.

## Tailor and QuickBooks: Total Financial and Inventory Control

Integrating inventory management software with QuickBooks Online won't just streamline your operations — it'll turn inventory management into a strategic business asset, amplifying your accounting system’s power and giving you unparalleled control over your financial health.

That’s where [Tailor’s inventory management solution](https://www.tailor.tech/templates/inventory-management-system) comes in. Our industry-leading inventory management solution is designed to complement QuickBooks Online seamlessly — so you can make smarter financial and inventory decisions, all in one streamlined platform.

Ready to optimize your inventory management and elevate your QuickBooks Online experience?

[Schedule your demo with Tailor today](https://www.tailor.tech/demo).

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QuickBooks Online is a popular choice for small to medium-sized businesses. But when it comes to managing inventory, the platform doesn’t always cut it.

How Inventory Management Software Enhances QuickBooks Online’s Accounting Power

# The ROI of Investing in the Best Inventory Management Software for Small Businesses

For small businesses, managing inventory isn't some routine task — it’s the backbone of their daily operations. Inventory management can make or break your profitability, customer satisfaction, and overall efficiency. Yet, for many business owners, adopting inventory management software may feel like an added expense. Here’s the truth: it’s an investment, not just a cost, and comes with measurable returns.

In this blog, we’ll explore how investing in the best inventory management software for small businesses can yield substantial ROI (return on investment). We’ll look at the key ways this software delivers value, how you can calculate your own ROI, and share real-world examples of small businesses reaping the benefits.

## Understanding ROI in inventory management software

Before unpacking the ROI potential, let’s break down the concept. **ROI** is a simple but powerful metric that measures the gain from an investment relative to its cost. In other words, it shows how much bang you’re getting for your buck. For small business owners operating with tight margins, every dollar counts, so ROI becomes critical.

While there’s an upfront cost to adopting inventory management software — whether in subscription fees, implementation, or training — the benefits you reap often far outweigh the initial expense. The right solution saves time, cuts costs, reduces errors, and ultimately helps your business run more smoothly. But the trick lies in finding the **best inventory management software** that aligns with your unique needs.

## How inventory management software delivers ROI

### 1. Reducing wasted inventory costs

One of the clearest paths to ROI is reducing wasted inventory. Overstocking means your capital is tied up in products that are just sitting on the shelves, while understocking leads to missed sales and disappointed customers. The best inventory management software provides real-time visibility into stock levels, helping you keep inventory in balance.

Take [Tailor’s automated replenishment feature](https://www.tailor.tech/templates/inventory-management-system), for example. With real-time tracking and demand forecasting, you’ll know exactly when to restock, reducing wasted stock and improving cash flow. This precision cuts down on wasted stock and improves cash flow, putting more money back into your business.

According to [the 2023 National Retail Security Survey](https://cdn.nrf.com/sites/default/files/2023-09/NRF_National_Retail_Security_Survey_2023.pdf), retailers faced significant challenges related to shrink (losses due to factors like theft, fraud, and errors), accounting for an average loss of 1.6% of sales in 2022. Imagine the savings your small business could see by minimizing these issues with the right software.

### 2. Improving sales and customer satisfaction

![A man sitting on a bed, holding a plaid shirt. Nearby, there are paper shopping bags, with a laptop and wallet also on the bed.](https://proud-diamond-9f85b9c627.media.strapiapp.com/inventory_management_happy_customer_1a1bfbb156.jpg)

Happy customers equal repeat business, and that directly impacts your bottom line. Inventory management software plays a pivotal role in ensuring customers get what they want when they want it. By keeping your stock levels in check, you’re better equipped to meet demand, leading to fewer backorders, faster fulfillment, and happier customers.

When your inventory is accurate, you can offer more reliable delivery times and product availability, which is crucial in today’s world of instant gratification. This typically leads to increased customer loyalty and, ultimately, higher sales.

Incorporating a solution with [multi-channel integration](https://www.tradegecko.com/blog/ecommerce/multi-channel-ecommerce-inventory-management) also ensures you never oversell an item, helping you maintain your reputation for reliability across every sales platform you use.

### 3. Streamlining operations and saving time

Small business owners and their teams wear many hats. When you’re responsible for everything from sales to accounting, there’s little room for time-consuming manual processes like updating inventory spreadsheets or tracking stock across different sales channels. Inventory management software automates these tasks, saving you time and reducing the risk of costly human error.

Imagine logging into a single dashboard where you can see stock levels across your brick-and-mortar store, your online shop, and even your Amazon or eBay store — all in real time. Automation doesn’t just free up hours of labor; it also ensures that your staff can focus on growth-oriented tasks like marketing and customer service.

**Pro tip**: When evaluating software, look for solutions that offer robust automation features. The more processes you can automate — whether it’s reordering, generating purchase orders, or syncing inventory across channels — the more time you save.

### 4. Data-driven decision making

Data is power, especially when it comes to managing inventory. With manual processes, business owners often rely on guesswork, which can lead to costly mistakes. But with [inventory analytics](https://www.tailor.tech/templates/inventory-management-system), data becomes your ally.

The best inventory management software provides valuable insights into inventory turnover rates, best-selling products, seasonal trends, and supplier performance. Armed with this data, you can make more informed decisions about what to stock, when to reorder, and which suppliers are the most cost-effective.

This ability to forecast demand with precision ensures that your shelves are stocked with the right products at the right time, reducing deadstock and keeping your cash flow healthy.

## Examples of ROI with specific inventory management features

![A person using a tablet to scan a colorful ceramic piece in a shop, surrounded by shelves filled with decorative dishes.](https://proud-diamond-9f85b9c627.media.strapiapp.com/inventory_management_small_business_mobile_c8e07004ec.jpg)

### Multi-channel integration

If you’re selling through multiple channels — whether it’s an online store, physical location, or third-party platforms — keeping track of inventory can quickly become overwhelming. [Tailor’s multi-channel integration](https://www.tailor.tech/templates/inventory-mgmt-hub) syncs inventory across every platform, keeping your stock levels accurate no matter where your sales come from.

This reduces the risk of overselling or underselling and eliminates the need for manual updates. The result? A significant reduction in lost sales, fewer returns due to errors, and streamlined operations, all of which contribute to a higher ROI.

### Mobile access

For small business owners constantly on the go, mobile access to inventory data is a game-changer. Many cloud-based inventory management systems offer [mobile apps](https://www.getapp.com/operations-management-software/inventory-management/f/mobile-integration/) that let you check stock levels, process orders, and manage deliveries from your smartphone.

This level of flexibility enables you to react quickly to changes in demand or supply, which can help prevent stockouts and lost sales. Being able to manage inventory remotely means your business runs smoothly, even when you’re not physically there, increasing overall efficiency and ROI.

### Scalability

The best inventory management software is scalable, meaning it can grow with your business. As your operations expand, you won’t need to overhaul your entire system or invest in a new solution. This [scalability](https://yourlogisticscorp.com/the-importance-of-e-commerce-scalability-for-business-growth/) ensures that your software continues delivering ROI as your business evolves.

## How to Calculate ROI for Your Business

Calculating ROI from inventory management software is pretty straightforward. You’ll need to compare the gains (e.g., increased sales, cost savings) against the costs (e.g., software fees, training, setup).

Here’s a simple formula:

**ROI = (Net Gain from Investment - Cost of Investment) / Cost of Investment x 100**

To calculate your own ROI, start by tracking key metrics like:

- Inventory turnover ratio.
- Carrying costs.
- Stockout frequency.
- Time spent on manual inventory tasks.

By comparing these metrics before and after implementing inventory software, you’ll be able to quantify its impact on your bottom line. For example, if your software saves you $5,000 annually in reduced carrying costs and costs $2,000 to implement, your ROI is 150%.

## Tailor: A modern solution to inventory management

For small businesses, the right inventory management software isn’t just a tool — it’s a lifeline. And Tailor’s inventory management solution was built with one goal in mind: to make running your business smoother, smarter, and more profitable.

With Tailor, managing your stock is no longer a guessing game. Imagine a system that tracks your inventory across every channel, alerts you when it’s time to reorder, and even lets you manage everything from your phone. Tailor keeps your stock accurate and in check, so you’re always ready to meet demand — no overstock, no stockouts, just seamless, balanced inventory.

Our one-of-a-kind solution is also designed to grow alongside you. As your business expands, Tailor’s scalable, [cloud-based system](https://www.tailor.tech/blog/posts/guide-to-cloud-erp-software) adapts, meaning you won’t need to upgrade or overhaul when you start seeing more orders roll in. It’s inventory management made to keep up with your ambition.

**Ready to boost your ROI and streamline your inventory management?**

[Schedule a demo with Tailor today](https://www.tailor.tech/demo).

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Here's how the best inventory management software for small businesses can yield substantial ROI.

The ROI of Investing in the Best Inventory Management Software for Small Businesses

# How to Choose the Best Inventory Management Software for QuickBooks Integration

Managing inventory isn’t easy. It’s time-consuming, detail-oriented, and can get messy quickly, especially if you're relying solely on QuickBooks for the job.

Sure, QuickBooks excels at accounting. But when it comes to managing complex inventory systems? It falls short. That's where an integrated solution can change the game.

By combining the right [inventory management software](https://www.capterra.com/inventory-management-software/) with QuickBooks, you streamline your workflow. No more duplicate data entries. No more manual tracking. No more headaches.

But how can you find the best inventory management software that integrates seamlessly with QuickBooks? Let’s break it down.

## Why QuickBooks integration is essential

QuickBooks is a widely used [accounting software](https://www.tailor.tech/blog/posts/accounting-erp-software-guide), beloved for its intuitive interface, comprehensive financial tracking, and ability to handle everything from payroll to tax preparation. For small to mid-sized businesses, it’s often the go-to choice.

However, while QuickBooks excels in financial management, its inventory management features are somewhat basic. If you’re dealing with complex inventory processes — like multi-channel sales, [supply chain management](https://www.tailor.tech/blog/posts/erp-key-role-supply-chain-management), or product variations — those limitations can quickly become a problem.

Inventory management software fills these gaps. The best solutions integrate seamlessly with QuickBooks, allowing you to automate data transfer between systems, reduce the risk of errors, and gather real-time insights into your stock levels and financial health. Integration also means you can avoid the frustration of manually inputting data twice — inventory changes in one system are reflected in the other instantly.

In short, integrating inventory management software with QuickBooks isn’t just a nice-to-have — it’s essential for businesses looking to grow efficiently and maintain accurate records.

## Key features to look for in inventory management software with QuickBooks integration

![A person seated on a couch holding a credit card while using a silver laptop.](https://proud-diamond-9f85b9c627.media.strapiapp.com/inventory_management_software_quickbooks_features_e402c2e4ab.jpg)

When it comes to choosing inventory management software that works with QuickBooks, you’ll need to ensure the solution offers the right features to meet your specific needs.

Here are the top features to prioritize:

### 1. Seamless data syncing

One of the biggest advantages of using integrated inventory management software is the ability to sync data between systems automatically. Look for software that provides real-time syncing so that when a sale is made, your inventory levels update in both the inventory system and QuickBooks simultaneously.

This seamless connection prevents discrepancies between your inventory and financial records. Instead of manually updating QuickBooks with stock changes, sales, or reorders, the integration handles it for you. This cuts down on human error and gives you peace of mind, knowing that your books and your inventory are always aligned.

### 2. Ease of use

An inventory management system is only as good as its usability, and the software should be intuitive enough for your team to pick up quickly without extensive training. Complicated systems can lead to inefficiencies and slow down your operations, which defeats the purpose of streamlining your workflow in the first place.

Look for inventory software with a simple, user-friendly interface that allows users to navigate between functions easily. Dashboards should provide a clear overview of stock levels, orders, and other key metrics at a glance. The integration process with QuickBooks should also be straightforward, with step-by-step instructions to ensure a smooth setup.

### 3. Scalability

As your business grows, so do your inventory needs. Choosing inventory management software that integrates with QuickBooks should solve your immediate challenges *and* accommodate future growth. Look for software that can handle increasing inventory volumes, expanding product lines, and the addition of new sales channels without losing efficiency or data accuracy.

For instance, if you plan to expand to multiple warehouses or locations, ensure that the software can manage multi-location tracking seamlessly while still syncing with QuickBooks. This will save you from having to switch systems later on, which can be costly and disruptive.

### 4. Customization and flexibility

Every business operates differently, which is why customization is critical when choosing inventory management software. The best software offers flexible features that allow you to tailor it to your specific needs. Whether it’s adjusting reporting formats, integrating with additional business tools, or automating specific workflows, the right system will allow you to adapt it to your operations.

For example, some businesses may need custom reporting to track specific KPIs or inventory trends. Having software that can generate custom reports in line with QuickBooks data can offer a comprehensive view of both financial and operational performance, helping you make better, more informed business decisions.

### 5. Advanced reporting and analytics

In today's competitive business landscape, data is king. To make the best strategic decisions, you need to have clear insights into both your financials and your inventory. The right inventory management software should offer advanced reporting features that align with your QuickBooks data, providing a unified view of your entire business.

Integrated reporting tools should allow you to track key metrics like sales trends, stock turnover rates, and profit margins — all in real time. Being able to pull reports that combine financial data from QuickBooks with inventory insights can help you spot inefficiencies, forecast demand more accurately, and ultimately boost your profitability.

## Consider your business’s specific needs

![A person sitting at a desk, packing a cardboard box with a laptop, tape, and a document nearby.](https://proud-diamond-9f85b9c627.media.strapiapp.com/inventory_management_software_quickbooks_business_needs_ec3290801d.jpg)

Before you decide on a platform, take a step back and consider your business’s unique needs. Inventory management software isn't one-size-fits-all, so understanding your own requirements will help you choose the right solution.

Here are some key questions to ask yourself before you commit to a solution:

- **What is the scale of my inventory?** Are you managing hundreds of products across multiple locations or just a small set of SKUs in a single warehouse?
- **Do I sell across multiple channels?** If you’re managing inventory for both a brick-and-mortar store and an online shop, you’ll need software that integrates with QuickBooks and your sales platforms.
- **How complex is my supply chain?** If you’re working with multiple suppliers, warehouses, or fulfillment methods, your inventory software should offer advanced tracking and management features.

Matching the right software to your operational demands is critical for long-term success. The more closely the software fits your needs, the smoother the integration and the more efficient your processes will become.

## Tailor your solution: Unlocking the power of QuickBooks

The right inventory management software can be a game-changer — especially when it syncs effortlessly with QuickBooks. The ultimate goal? A smooth, seamless operation where your inventory, orders, and accounting align perfectly.

For a solution that’s reliable, customizable, and built to scale, look no further than [Tailor’s Inventory Management Hub](https://www.tailor.tech/templates/inventory-mgmt-hub). Our innovative inventory management tools are designed with flexibility in mind, allowing you to organize products, manage multiple locations, and track stock in real-time—all from one intuitive dashboard. At Tailor, we go far beyond the basics, offering powerful automation for replenishment and order management — so your team can spend less time on tedious tasks and more time building the business.

And with Tailor’s QuickBooks integration, every sale, return, and restock is instantly reflected in your books. No more manual data entry, no more syncing issues — just a clear, up-to-the-minute view of your inventory and finances in one place.

Ready to see the difference Tailor can make? 

[Schedule your demo with Tailor today](https://www.tailor.tech/demo).

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Sure, QuickBooks excels at accounting. But when it comes to managing complex inventory systems? It falls short. That's where an integrated solution can change the game.

How to Choose the Best Inventory Management Software for QuickBooks Integration

# 7 Common Shopify Issues — and How the Best Inventory Management Software Can Solve Them

Running a Shopify store is no small feat.

With the rise of e-commerce, Shopify has become a go-to platform for businesses looking to sell online. It's a favorite among e-commerce merchants, with a sleek interface, scalable processes, and a robust set of integrations.

But when it comes to inventory management, some Shopify users face their share of challenges — mismanaged inventory that leads to stockouts, overstocks, and other costly issues that can impact your business's bottom line.

To help you navigate these challenges, we’ll explain seven of the most common Shopify inventory issues — and how the right inventory management features can help you solve them. So whether you're a small business just starting or an established company, you'll be better equipped to streamline operations, reduce inventory expenses, and keep your customers happy.

Let's get to it.

## 1. Stockouts and overstocking
Stockouts and overstocking are two sides of the same coin, and each one can harm your business in different ways.

Stockouts happen when inventory levels fall to zero before you have a chance to restock, leading to lost sales and unhappy customers. Overstocking, on the other hand, ties up capital in unsold goods, increases warehousing costs, and can result in dead stock if items go out of season.

For Shopify users, these issues are often exacerbated by a lack of real-time visibility into stock levels. Without accurate, up-to-the-minute inventory tracking, it’s nearly impossible to know exactly how much stock you have on hand or when to reorder.

### How inventory management software helps:
The key to avoiding stockouts and overstocking lies in real-time inventory tracking and automated stock replenishment. Real-time tracking allows you to monitor your inventory as it changes, giving you complete visibility into stock levels across all sales channels. This ensures you always know when to reorder and reduces the chances of overselling or running out of stock.

Some Shopify inventory management apps, like Stocky or QuickBooks Commerce , offer automated stock replenishment features. These apps can be configured to automatically reorder items when inventory falls below a certain threshold — so you always have enough stock on hand without over-ordering.

## 2. Manual inventory updates leading to errors
Manually updating inventory isn't just time-consuming — it's also prone to human mistakes. Mistyping quantities, forgetting to update stock after a sale, or accidentally entering incorrect information can all lead to inventory discrepancies. These mistakes might not seem like a big deal at first, but they can accumulate quickly, leading to miscounts, stockouts, and over-ordering. And for Shopify merchants managing multiple SKUs or products with variations, these errors become even more frequent and challenging to track.

![A person is seated at a table with their head resting on their folded arms. They are holding a phone above a laptop, and there is a notebook beside them.](https://proud-diamond-9f85b9c627.media.strapiapp.com/shopify_inventory_management_error_b6b84b4ec5.jpg)

### How inventory management software helps:
To eliminate manual errors, it’s important to implement automated inventory syncing across all your sales channels. Automated syncing ensures that inventory levels are updated in real time whenever a sale is made, whether on Shopify, Amazon, eBay, or another platform. This automation drastically reduces the likelihood of human error and ensures that your stock levels are always accurate.

Shopify offers built-in tools and third-party integrations that allow for seamless inventory syncing. Shopify’s multi-channel capabilities, along with more robust applications like [Tailor](https://inventorycloud.tailor.tech), can automatically update your stock levels across all platforms — without the need for human intervention.

## 3. Lack of centralized multi-channel inventory management
Many Shopify merchants sell products across multiple channels — from Amazon to eBay and even physical retail stores. But managing inventory across these channels can be a logistical nightmare. Without centralized management, you risk overselling on one platform while understocking on another — a lack of synchronization that can lead to unsatisfied customers, increased returns, and a tarnished reputation.

### How inventory management software helps:
The solution to this issue is centralized multi-channel inventory syncing. With a centralized system, your inventory levels across all channels are updated in real time for even greater consistency and accuracy. This allows you to sell confidently across multiple platforms without worrying about stock discrepancies.

Apps like [Linnworks](https://www.linnworks.com/) and [Sellbrite](https://www.sellbrite.com/) integrate well with Shopify and other platforms, giving you a centralized dashboard where you can manage all your sales channels in one place. By streamlining this process, you can ensure your stock levels stay consistent no matter where a sale occurs.

## 4. Slow order fulfillment due to inefficient inventory processes
Customers expect fast shipping — especially in the age of same-day and overnight delivery. But if your inventory system is unorganized, it can slow down the order fulfillment process, which can lead to delayed shipments and, worse, unhappy customers.

Slow order fulfillment doesn't just frustrate buyers — it increases the likelihood of negative reviews, which can hurt your business's reputation in the long term. For Shopify merchants with big product catalogs or lots of sales volume, fulfilling orders quickly and accurately is a major factor in customer satisfaction.

### How inventory management software helps:
One of the best ways to speed up order fulfillment is by using barcoding and SKU management. Barcoding allows you to scan products quickly and accurately during the picking, packing, and shipping processes, reducing the likelihood of human mishaps and speeding up fulfillment times.

![A man wearing a beanie and vest scans an item in a warehouse with a handheld device while holding a tablet in his other hand.](https://proud-diamond-9f85b9c627.media.strapiapp.com/shopify_inventory_management_barcode_scan_cc9a5be700.jpg)

A SKU management system can also help organize your inventory, making it easier to locate products in your warehouse or storage space. Shopify integrates with several barcode and SKU management tools, including [Shopify POS](https://www.shopify.com/pos) as well as [Tailor's barcode scanning capabilities](https://inventorycloud.tailor.tech), both of which can streamline your fulfillment process and reduce shipping times.

## 5. Limited reporting and forecasting capabilities
Inventory reporting is crucial for making informed business decisions, but many Shopify merchants struggle with limited reporting features. Without detailed reports on sales trends, top-selling products, and inventory movement, it's harder to forecast demand or make strategic purchasing decisions. It can also lead to over-ordering, under-ordering, and wasted resources — all of which are major no-nos.

### How inventory management software helps:
Shopify users should invest in inventory management tools with powerful reporting and analytics features. These will give you deeper insights into sales performance, product trends, and inventory movement — so you can accurately forecast demand and make data-driven decisions.

Apps like [Inventory Planner](https://inventory-planner.com/) and [Stock Sync](https://www.stocksync.io/) offer advanced reporting and forecasting capabilities that integrate well with Shopify. They can also help you generate detailed reports on your inventory, sales trends, and customer behavior, giving you the insights you need to optimize stock levels and, ultimately, make your business more profitable.

## 6. Inconsistent inventory between physical and online stores
For businesses that sell their products both online and in physical retail stores, keeping inventory consistent across channels can be a challenge. A customer might buy an item in-store, but without real-time syncing, your online store might still show that item as available. This, unfortunately, can lead to overselling, stockouts, and unhappy customers.

### How inventory management software helps:
The best way to solve this problem is by using Shopify’s point-of-sale (POS) system or an integrated inventory management tool that syncs stock levels between your physical and online stores. This will ensure that your inventory is updated in real time, regardless of where a sale is made, helping you avoid overselling and stock discrepancies.

Tools like [Shopify POS](https://www.shopify.com/pos) and Tailor's multi-channel functionality integrate directly with Shopify, allowing you to manage inventory across both your online and physical stores from one centralized system.

## 7. Difficulty managing inventory for bundles or kits
Shopify's default system doesn’t handle bundled products well, which can lead to a variety of stock mishaps. If one component of a bundle goes out of stock, the system might still show the entire bundle as available, leading to overselling and backorders.

### **How inventory management software helps:**
To effectively manage your bundles and kits, you’ll need an inventory management tool capable of handling bundled product tracking. This should give you peace of mind with stock levels that are accurately updated for all bundle components.

Apps like [Bundle Builder](https://www.bundlebuilder.app/) and [SkuVault](https://www.skuvault.com/) are designed to manage bundles and kits, ensuring that your inventory is accurately tracked for each individual product within a bundle.

## Tailor: The best Shopify inventory management solution
Inventory management is a major component of running a successful Shopify store, but it comes with its challenges. From stockouts and overstocking to slow order fulfillment and manual errors, these issues can impact the profitability of your business and the happiness of your customers. 

The good news? [Tailor’s inventory management solution](https://inventorycloud.tailor.tech/) equips you with all the tools and technology you need to overcome these challenges. 

With real-time tracking, automated stock replenishment, multi-channel syncing, and a deep well of reporting features, Tailor helps Shopify merchants stay on top of their inventory. So whether you're managing a single Shopify store or selling across multiple channels, our comprehensive, easy-to-use ERP solution will help your business grow without all those costly inventory mistakes.

Ready to take your Shopify store to the next level? 

[Schedule your demo with Tailor today](https://www.tailor.tech/demo).

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Solve common Shopify inventory problems quickly. Learn to prevent stockouts, reduce errors, and manage multi-channel selling effectively.

Shopify Inventory Management: 7 Key Issues Fixed | Tailor

7 Common Shopify Issues — and How the Best Inventory Management Software Can Solve Them

# How the Best Cloud-Based Inventory Management Software Can Improve Your Supply Chain

A well-managed supply chain has never been more essential.

As supply chains become more complex and globalized, today's businesses face a daunting task: striking the right balance between efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and responsiveness to stay competitive. From managing suppliers to ensuring accurate inventory levels, a poorly managed supply chain can lead to delays, lost revenue, and dissatisfied customers.

That's where cloud-based inventory management software comes in, equipping businesses with real-time insights, automated processes, and better collaboration across the supply chain.

In this blog, we'll explain how the best cloud-based inventory management software can improve your supply chain and help you gain a competitive edge in a rapidly evolving market.

Let's get started.

## Real-time data and visibility
Cloud-based inventory management software provides real-time data and visibility into inventory levels across the entire supply chain. While traditional, on-premise systems typically rely on manual updates or periodic data uploads, resulting in delays or inaccuracies, cloud-based solutions constantly sync inventory data, offering live updates on stock levels, shipments, and demand.

Real-time data enables businesses to make more informed decisions about inventory management. For example, if a surge in demand is detected, businesses can quickly adjust their orders to avoid stockouts. Conversely, if inventory levels are too high, they can cut back on orders to prevent overstocking, reducing the risk of obsolescence and wasted capital.

The ability to track and respond to real-time changes in the supply chain is particularly important for demand forecasting. [Cloud-based systems](https://www.tailor.tech/blog/posts/guide-to-cloud-erp-software) provide a continuous data flow, helping businesses predict demand more accurately based on historical trends, seasonal fluctuations, and current market conditions. This level of insight means businesses can maintain optimal stock levels while making better pricing, marketing, and purchasing decisions.

Imagine a mid-sized electronics retailer struggling with frequent stockouts and overstock situations, leading to lost sales and wasted resources. After implementing a cloud-based inventory management system, the company gained real-time visibility into its supply chain. They could track inventory across multiple locations and forecast demand more accurately, leading to more accurate orders and satisfied customers. With real-time data, they could meet consumer demand more consistently, directly impacting their bottom line.

## Better collaboration across the supply chain
[Supply chain management](https://www.tailor.tech/blog/posts/erp-key-role-supply-chain-management) often involves collaboration between multiple stakeholders, including suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, and retailers. Miscommunication or delays in sharing information can lead to costly errors and slow down the entire supply chain. This is where cloud-based inventory management software shines.

Cloud systems centralize inventory data in a single location, allowing all stakeholders to access the same information in real time. Whether it’s a supplier checking stock levels before shipping goods or a retailer verifying available products before placing an order, the cloud facilitates seamless communication and reduces the chance of misaligned expectations.

Centralized access to inventory data also helps coordinate supply chain activities, from planning production schedules to adjusting shipment dates based on current stock levels. This means businesses can respond faster to unexpected changes, reducing lead times and minimizing disruptions in the supply chain.

![An individual in a dark shirt and cap examines mangoes on a tree, holding a tablet and a pen.](https://proud-diamond-9f85b9c627.media.strapiapp.com/food_supplier_inventory_management_5712b6284f.jpg)

For example, a food and beverage manufacturer that works with multiple suppliers to source raw materials might find that delays in sharing stock information led to production halts. But, by implementing a cloud-based inventory management solution, the company could allow its suppliers and production teams to access real-time stock data. This would lead to better planning and reduced delays, helping the manufacturer meet customer demand consistently without disruptions.

## More flexibility and scalability
In a world where markets and consumer demand can change in an instant, an adaptable supply chain is imperative. Cloud-based inventory management systems offer the flexibility and scalability necessary to respond to these changes without requiring significant capital investments or long lead times.

Unlike traditional systems that require costly hardware installations and manual updates, cloud-based inventory platforms are hosted online and can be scaled up or down based on business needs. Whether you're dealing with seasonal fluctuations, unexpected surges in demand, or expanding into new markets, a cloud solution can handle the increased complexity with ease.

This flexibility is especially beneficial for businesses with multiple locations or global supply chains. Cloud-based systems allow companies to manage their inventory from any location, facilitating growth without needing local servers or IT infrastructure. Moreover, cloud solutions often integrate with other business applications like accounting and CRM systems, streamlining operations and improving overall efficiency.

Picture a growing fashion retailer that started with a small brick-and-mortar shop before quickly expanding into e-commerce and multiple retail locations. As their business grew, so did the complexity of managing inventory across different locations. By adopting a cloud-based inventory management system, they could scale their operations seamlessly. The cloud platform provided the flexibility to add new locations and sales channels while maintaining accurate, real-time visibility into inventory levels across their supply chain.

## Automated inventory replenishment
Replenishment is one of the most time-consuming and error-prone aspects of inventory management. Ensuring that stock levels are optimized without overstocking or running out of products is a delicate balancing act. Cloud-based inventory management software simplifies this process by automating inventory replenishment.

Automated replenishment systems use pre-set thresholds to trigger orders when stock falls below a specified level — a level of automation that reduces the need for manual inventory checks and minimizes the risk of human error. This means businesses can ensure that their shelves are always stocked with the right products, improving efficiency and reducing the risk of stockouts or excess inventory.

Automated replenishment systems can also optimize the timing and size of orders, helping businesses reduce lead times and improve relationships with suppliers. By streamlining the replenishment process, your organization can avoid costly delays and ensure it has the inventory you need to meet customer demand.

![A man in a beige suit is working on a laptop at a glass counter. Behind him, shelves display various electronic items and boxes.](https://proud-diamond-9f85b9c627.media.strapiapp.com/best_cloud_inventory_electronics_retailer_18c8e364d9.jpg)

If a midsized electronics retailer experienced frequent stockouts, it would likely lead to lost sales and frustrated customers. But by implementing cloud-based automated inventory replenishment, the company could significantly reduce stockouts. The system could automatically place orders with suppliers when inventory levels dipped below a set threshold, ensuring that the retailer always had the right products in stock. Customer satisfaction would improve as a result, and the company would strengthen its relationships with key suppliers.

## More efficiency, less risk
Cloud-based inventory management systems offer significant cost savings compared to traditional, on-premise systems. By eliminating the need for expensive hardware, server maintenance, and IT support, your business can reduce its upfront and ongoing operational costs. Cloud-based solutions typically operate on a subscription model, allowing companies to pay only for the features they need and quickly scale up as their business grows.

Another key benefit of cloud-based inventory management is risk reduction. By automating many aspects of inventory control — such as stock tracking, order processing, and demand forecasting — cloud systems help mitigate the risks of human error, stock discrepancies, and poor planning. The result is a more accurate, efficient, and resilient supply chain.

Take, for instance, a global distributor of consumer goods that implemented a cloud-based inventory management system to streamline its operations. By reducing manual data entry and automating inventory processes, the company could drastically cut warehousing costs and decrease stock discrepancies. Reducing errors and more accurate inventory control would help the business manage its supply chain risks — all while improving its profitability.

## Tailor: Your ticket to a better supply chain
In today's highly competitive business environment, optimizing your supply chain is essential for success.

Cloud-based inventory management software offers numerous benefits that could improve your business's efficiency, visibility, and collaboration across the entire supply chain. By providing real-time data, automating critical processes, and offering the flexibility to scale as needed, cloud solutions are revolutionizing the way businesses manage their inventory.

[Tailor's headless ERP](https://www.tailor.tech/blog/posts/best-cloud-based-inventory-management-software) solution can help your business unlock the full potential of cloud-based inventory management. With a powerful, flexible platform that integrates seamlessly with your supply chain, our cloud-based inventory solution ensures your business always operates at peak efficiency. 

Ready to see how Tailor can transform your supply chain and drive your business forward?

[Schedule your demo today](https://www.tailor.tech/demo).
## Quick Answers and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

### What are the different types of inventory management?
Some of the most common inventory management methods are days sales of inventory (DSI), economic order quantity (EOQ), just-in-time management (JIT) and materials requirement planning (MRP). Other types include: 
- ABC Analysis
- First-In, First-Out (FIFO)
- Last-in, first-out (LIFO)
- Safety Stock
- Weighted Average
- Specific Identification
- Perpetual Inventory System
- Periodic Inventory System
- Vendor-Managed Inventory (VMI)
- Consignment Inventory

Composable business systems and headless ERPs, like Tailor, empower businesses to dynamically adapt their inventory management strategy. By integrating modular components and real-time data, Tailor ensures seamless coordination across supply chains, reducing waste and optimizing stock levels. This flexibility allows businesses to implement the right inventory control method for their unique needs without being constrained by rigid ERP systems.
### How can automation reduce inventory management errors?
Automated systems reduce human errors in data entry and order processing through smart reordering and demand forecasting, ensuring businesses maintain the right inventory levels. 

With [composable ERP systems](https://www.tailor.tech/blog/posts/composable-erp-how-modular-systems-solve-ERP-flexibility-problem), businesses can seamlessly integrate barcode scanning, RFID, and IoT sensors while leveraging smart automation to maintain optimal inventory levels.

Tailor's headless ERP allows businesses to adapt their inventory management strategy and blend these technologies with its flexible architecture — boosting efficiency, reducing errors, and enabling more scalable operations.
### What is the role of scalability in inventory systems?
Scalability in inventory systems is crucial for businesses. It helps them grow and adapt to market changes while staying efficient. 

Tailor's composable ERP solutions offer flexibility and easy integration — helping companies manage more work, expand operations, and maintain high service levels. At the same time, these solutions ensure cost-effectiveness and prepare businesses for the future. Using real-time data and AI-driven analytics, Tailor supports smarter inventory management and multi-channel integration, allowing businesses to scale easily and sustainably.


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Cloud-based inventory management software enhances supply chains with real-time data, automation, collaboration, flexibility, and reduced risks.

Cloud-Based Inventory Management Software: Benefits & Insights | Tailor

How the Best Cloud-Based Inventory Management Software Can Improve Your Supply Chain

# The Best Inventory Management Strategies for Small Businesses

What's the difference between profit and loss? For small businesses, it's often inventory management.

With limited resources at their disposal, small business owners constantly walk a tightrope between overstocks, which tie up capital, and stockouts, which result in missed sales, costly storage, and unsatisfied customers. Not to mention, they typically have to work within tighter margins, and the slightest inventory hiccup can quickly eat into profits.

That's why small businesses, especially those in e-commerce and retail, need to strike a delicate balance: having enough stock to meet demand while avoiding excess inventory that drains resources. 

Here are some of the best inventory management strategies to help you achieve that balance.

## Implement just-in-time (JIT) inventory
With the [just-in-time inventory strategy](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/business/just-in-time-inventory/), stock is replenished only as it’s needed. This helps small businesses reduce the amount of capital tied up in unsold goods and minimizes the cost of storing excess inventory. It also helps them align inventory levels with actual demand, ensuring they never hold too much or too little stock.

Essentially, you order products much closer to the time they're needed, which is ideal for businesses with limited storage space. On the flip side, JIT requires reliable suppliers who can deliver stock on short notice. It’s a delicate balance, but if managed well, JIT can free up cash flow and prevent waste from over-ordering.

### Benefits of JIT for small businesses:
- Reduced carrying costs.
- Less capital tied up in unsold goods.
- Streamlined operations with fewer stockouts.

## Utilize inventory management software
In today's increasingly digital business environment, manually tracking inventory using spreadsheets isn't just outdated — it’s risky. Small businesses can save time and money by investing in inventory management software, which helps to automate stock tracking, order management, and reporting while offering a clear view of your inventory at any given time.

Look for software that's affordable, easy to use, and tailored to the specific needs of your business. Prioritize features like real-time tracking, automatic stock alerts, and integration with e-commerce platforms or point-of-sale (POS) systems. Most software options these days also give you detailed analytics data — so you can make smarter restocking decisions and understand which products are selling the fastest.

### Top features of inventory management software:
- Real-time tracking and notifications.
- Integration with e-commerce and accounting tools.
- Automated stock replenishment based on historical trends.
- Customizable reporting for better decision-making.

## Audit your inventory regularly
![A person in a white shirt stands beside stacked cardboard boxes, holding a clipboard.](https://proud-diamond-9f85b9c627.media.strapiapp.com/inventory_management_audit_a4057203f0.jpg)
Routine inventory audits ensure that your records align with the actual stock you have on hand. Though discrepancies can arise due to various factors such as theft, damage, or administrative errors, conducting frequent cycle counts or full physical inventory audits will help you identify issues before they spiral out of control.

For small businesses especially, frequent audits can prevent inventory discrepancies that could otherwise lead to lost sales or excess stock. Cycle counting — aka counting a small portion of your inventory regularly — is a more manageable alternative to a full audit and can be done without disrupting day-to-day operations.

### Benefits of regular audits:
- Reduces shrinkage and theft.
- Improves accuracy in stock levels.
- Helps identify slow-moving products.

## ABC inventory analysis
Not all inventory is created equal. [ABC inventory analysis](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/what-is-abc-inventory) helps small businesses prioritize their focus by categorizing inventory based on its value.

Essentially, the ABC method divides products into three categories:  
- **A** items are high-value but low-quantity.  
- **B** items are moderate-value.
- **C** items are low-value but high-quantity.

Classifying your products this way means you can concentrate your efforts on managing the most valuable items (A), ensuring you never run out of high-demand, high-value goods. By strategically focusing on the most important products, your small business can drastically improve its inventory control without overwhelming your operations.

### How ABC analysis improves inventory management:
- Focuses on high-value items that contribute the most to revenue.
- Helps determine which products need more frequent ordering and attention.
- Simplifies decision-making for inventory replenishment.

## Optimize supplier relationships
Reliable suppliers can mean the difference between consistent stock levels and disruptive stockouts. Establishing [strong relationships with your suppliers](https://hbr.org/2004/12/building-deep-supplier-relationships) can help you negotiate better terms, from smaller minimum order quantities and faster restocking to flexible payment options.

When choosing your suppliers, consider their delivery time, reliability, and how they handle issues like damaged goods or incorrect orders. Long-term relationships can also lead to better pricing, which is especially important for small businesses operating on thin margins.

### Tips for supplier management:
- Communicate regularly with your suppliers to ensure timely restocking.
- Build flexibility into your agreements to handle sudden demand changes.
- Foster long-term partnerships for better pricing and support.

## Forecast demand with data
![A person pointing at a financial chart on a laptop, while another person holds a tablet displaying stock data.](https://proud-diamond-9f85b9c627.media.strapiapp.com/inventory_management_forecast_demand_e5bce24bb7.jpg)
Accurate demand forecasting is a critical aspect of inventory management for small businesses. By analyzing historical sales data, market trends, and seasonal patterns, you can better predict which products will sell and when. This reduces the risk of overstocking or understocking.

Be sure to invest in software that offers demand forecasting capabilities or, at the very least, analyze your own data regularly. This will ensure you have enough stock during peak seasons while avoiding excess inventory during slower periods.

### Benefits of demand forecasting:
- Avoids unnecessary overstocking.
- Ensures stock availability during peak demand.
- Reduces the risk of stockouts and lost sales.

## Use safety stock wisely
Safety stock is the buffer of inventory you maintain to guard against unpredictable fluctuations in demand or supply chain disruptions. Essentially, it’s a small business’s safety net, ensuring that you can meet customer demand even if your suppliers experience delays or a sudden surge in orders occurs.

However, it’s hugely important to strike the right balance. Too much safety stock ties up capital and increases storage costs, while too little leaves you vulnerable to stockouts. Be sure to use data from your demand forecasting to calculate appropriate safety stock levels.

### How to calculate safety stock:
- Consider lead time for restocking.
- Analyze historical data on demand fluctuations.
- Adjust safety stock for peak seasons or sudden demand spikes.

## Invest in staff training
Your staff plays an integral role in ensuring your inventory management processes run smoothly. Employees should be trained in all aspects of inventory control, from receiving shipments to organizing stockrooms and managing returns. Proper training ensures fewer mistakes, leading to better stock accuracy.

It's also critical that the training be ongoing, especially if your business adopts new technology or inventory management software. Well-trained employees are more efficient and less likely to make costly mistakes, which are especially consequential for small businesses with limited resources.

### Key areas for staff training:
- Stock receiving and storage best practices.
- Proper handling of inventory management software.
- Processes for reporting and rectifying discrepancies.

## Tailor: Bolstering Inventory and E-commerce with ERP
While these strategies can significantly improve your inventory management, integrating these processes with an enterprise resource planning (ERP) platform can take it to the next level.

[Tailor's headless ERP solution](https://www.tailor.tech/) brings together various aspects of your business — inventory management, e-commerce, sales, accounting, and more — into one cohesive platform. With automated processes and real-time stock visibility across all channels, Tailor's innovative, industry-leading ERP technology will help your small business stay ahead of the curve.

Tailor helps retail organizations manage inventory with precision, offering best-in-class features like demand forecasting, automated reordering, and real-time stock updates. For small businesses, these things can help reduce manual workload and improve operational efficiency, freeing up valuable time to focus on growth and customer satisfaction.

Ready to take control of your inventory and transform your e-commerce operations?

**[Schedule your demo with Tailor today.](https://www.tailor.tech/demo)**

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Utilize inventory management software for real-time tracking and automate reordering to reduce costs and improve cash flow.

Inventory Management Strategies for Small Businesses | Tailor

The Best Inventory Management Strategies for Small Businesses

What if one controversial decision could catapult a company from the shadows of outdated technology into the limelight of innovation? That's exactly what IMA ([Ichimura Sangyo](https://www.ichimura.co.jp/en/profile/index.html))—a global heavyweight in textiles and chemicals and a [proud subsidiary of Toray Industries](https://www.toray.com/global/)—has done.

After over a decade chained to SAP's legacy systems, IMA found itself hamstrung by technology that couldn't keep pace with today's lightning-fast business environment. So, they made a daring move: they bid farewell to SAP and embraced Tailor, a cutting-edge, [headless ERP system](https://www.tailor.tech/) that's turning industry norms on their head.

But why Tailor? How did IMA's exhaustive search through over 100 vendors culminate in this game-changing choice?

This isn't just a tale about swapping software. 
It's a gripping story of shattering conventions, choosing innovation over tradition, and how IMA is not just keeping up with the future—but fearlessly forging it.

![Two people in suits having a conversation and holding documents inside a modern building.](https://proud-diamond-9f85b9c627.media.strapiapp.com/795136c1_47bb_4a57_a3f8_440f58c18f3c_35c3a30457.jpg)

## The Challenges with SAP: Inflexibility and High Costs

SAP has long been the go-to solution for many businesses, but for IMA, the system was no longer delivering. Two key issues stood in the way:

1. **Lack of Flexibility**: As the world changed, so too did the needs of businesses. SAP’s inability to evolve with the times, particularly during moments of crisis like the pandemic, became a critical concern. Even with add-ons, upgrading SAP was expensive and time-consuming. Internal debates about the cost of these upgrades often delayed improvements until it was simply too late. Tailor’s promise of a “non-obsolescent” system, designed to stay up-to-date with minimal cost, felt like a breath of fresh air. The company needed a system that could keep pace with the business environment, and Tailor’s flexibility checked that box.
    
2. **One-Size-Fits-All Approach**: When IMA first implemented SAP, their textile division dominated profits. The system was tailored to fit that business, leaving the company’s growing chemical products division underserved. SAP’s inability to support the unique needs of both divisions created operational silos and drove up costs.
    
    With Tailor’s headless design, IMA could unify their backend while customizing the frontend for each business segment. This was exactly the kind of tailored solution they were looking for—a system that could serve both divisions without creating unnecessary friction.
    

## The Search for a Future-Proof ERP: Why Tailor Stood Out
When IMA’s CEO challenged the team to envision the next generation of their [ERP system](https://www.tailor.tech/blog/posts/what-is-an-erp-system-a-beginners-guide-to-erp), they embarked on a six-month journey, researching over 100 products and vendors. The findings were stark: Japanese ERP vendors had stagnated, while foreign solutions had become prohibitively expensive for all but the largest enterprises.

In the final selection round, IMA considered several major players, including SAP, Microsoft Dynamics, Netsuite, and low-code platforms like GeneXus and OutSystems. Ultimately, Tailor emerged as the clear winner for two key reasons:

1. **Real-Time 2-Way Data Integration**: For IMA, the future lies in real-time data integration. While many vendors still rely on outdated methods like CSV integration, Tailor was built with APIs at its core, ensuring seamless and future-proof data connectivity. This capability was non-negotiable for IMA, especially as they look to scale their operations.

2. **Trust and Expertise**: Successful ERP implementations are not just about the technology; they’re about the people behind the system. IMA’s experience with systems integrators taught them that the success or failure of a project often comes down to the skill of the team involved. When they met with Yo from Tailor, it became clear that the Tailor team had both the technical expertise and the enthusiasm necessary for a successful partnership. This trust, combined with Tailor’s proven skill set, made them stand out from the competition.

![Tailor ERP Logo](https://proud-diamond-9f85b9c627.media.strapiapp.com/tailor_copy_cc1b9ecbaf.png)

## Early Wins and the Road Ahead

While the project is still in progress, IMA is already seeing significant benefits. Long-standing issues that SAP couldn’t solve are finally being addressed. Thanks to Tailor’s support, IMA's internal teams have been able to break down these problems, identify the root causes, and prioritize solutions.

The trust and collaboration between IMA and Tailor’s team have fostered a positive atmosphere within the company. Employees who were once bogged down by system inefficiencies are now energized by the progress being made, and there’s a real sense of optimism about what’s to come.
![Two people are sitting at a table in an office, smiling as they look over documents. Both are holding yellow folders.](https://proud-diamond-9f85b9c627.media.strapiapp.com/b31f45c4_b66e_4aaa_be2a_1d9a571a81de_23913504ed.jpg)

## Looking Ahead: A True Digital Transformation

At the core of this project is IMA’s vision for true digital transformation (DX). Too often, companies mistake IT upgrades for transformation, focusing on operational efficiency without addressing broader business goals. IMA is determined not to make this mistake.

Their goal with Tailor is to create a system that not only improves internal processes but also contributes directly to business expansion. One key area they plan to address is expanding their sales channels. While IMA currently operates as a B2B company, they see enormous potential in linking their system to platforms like MonotaRO to tap into the growing DIY trend and the D2C (direct-to-consumer) model. By expanding their reach to individual contractors and end-users, IMA hopes to create new revenue streams and future-proof their business.

Additionally, as the market becomes increasingly competitive, IMA knows they can no longer rely solely on product differentiation. Instead, they are focusing on improving the overall quality, cost, and delivery (QCD) for their partners. By leveraging Tailor to gather and analyze vast amounts of data, they aim to turn insights into action, delivering valuable information to their partners and improving their services.

![fab8a190-1bfc-4006-8dda-3848bd8d48bf.jpg](https://proud-diamond-9f85b9c627.media.strapiapp.com/fab8a190_1bfc_4006_8dda_3848bd8d48bf_44c89437cb.jpg)

## A System Built for the Future

IMA’s decision to move from SAP to Tailor is more than just a system upgrade; it’s a bold step toward true digital transformation. With Tailor’s flexible, future-proof design, IMA is poised to not only streamline their operations but also expand their business in new and exciting ways.

As the project moves forward, IMA is confident that Tailor will help them stay ahead of the curve, enabling them to respond to market demands, improve internal processes, and drive business growth. For IMA, this isn’t just about IT—it’s about building a system that supports their vision for the future.

By focusing on long-term goals, trusting in their team, and embracing a system designed to evolve, IMA is setting the stage for success in a fast-changing world. And as more businesses look to modernize their operations, IMA’s journey with Tailor offers valuable insights into what’s possible with the right ERP solution.

Ready to revolutionize your own business? Explore how Tailor can transform your operations, too. Visit [Tailor.Tech](https://www.tailor.tech/) and book a demo today to see how our future-proof ERP system can drive your business forward.

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Global giant IMA ditches SAP after a decade—embraces Tailor's cutting-edge ERP to shatter conventions and shape the future.

Goodbye SAP, Hello Tailor: How IMA Chose Innovation Over Tradition

# The Future of E-Commerce: How the Best ERPs for E-Commerce Adapt to Emerging Trends

E-commerce is transforming at breakneck speed. Consumer behaviors are shifting, technological advancements are disrupting the industry, and businesses are under constant pressure to innovate. When the pace is this fast, your company needs an innovative e-commerce solution to remain ahead of the curve — and enterprise resource planning, aka ERP software, can give you exactly that.

ERP systems are the backbone of e-commerce businesses, managing everything from inventory and order processing to customer data and financials. As new trends emerge in the e-commerce landscape, ERP systems offer the flexibility, scalability, and advanced features businesses need to thrive. 

So, what are the key trends shaping the future of e-commerce? And how are the best ERP systems evolving to meet the demands of this dynamic market?

Let's take a closer look.

## The rise of omnichannel retail
Today's consumers expect a seamless shopping experience across all channels, whether they’re browsing online, shopping in-store, or using mobile apps. This is where omnichannel retail comes into play, integrating multiple touchpoints into a unified experience. The shift to omnichannel is one of the most significant trends in e-commerce, and businesses that fail to adapt risk losing customers.

Modern ERP solutions allow businesses to synchronize data across all of their sales channels — and do it in real time. Inventory levels, customer orders, and pricing need to be accurate and consistent, whether a sale is happening on a company’s website, through a social media platform, or in a brick-and-mortar store. For example, if a customer buys a product online and picks it up in-store, an omnichannel ERP ensures that the item is deducted from the correct location’s inventory and updates the available stock on all other platforms.

**Key ERP features for omnichannel retail:**
- Real-time inventory management across all channels.
- Centralized customer data to ensure personalized experiences.
- Seamless integration with e-commerce platforms and POS (point of sale) systems.

With the rise of omnichannel retail, e-commerce businesses need an ERP that can manage the complexity of multiple sales channels without creating operational silos.

## AI and automation in e-commerce
Artificial intelligence and automation are no longer hypothetical concepts of the future — they're driving forces behind many of today's e-commerce innovations. AI is powering everything from personalized product recommendations to dynamic pricing, while automation is streamlining back-end operations like order fulfillment and customer service. As these technologies become more sophisticated, businesses that harness their power can significantly improve their efficiency — and, as a result, customer satisfaction.

![Two monitors showing a dark-themed text editor with JavaScript code, featuring functions, variables, and colorful syntax highlighting.](https://proud-diamond-9f85b9c627.media.strapiapp.com/ai_automation_ecommerce_52458b1679.jpg)

The best ERP systems for e-commerce are already integrating AI and automation to support these needs. AI-driven analytics can provide e-commerce companies with deeper insights into their data, like predicting demand for specific products or identifying customer purchasing patterns. Automation, on the other hand, can take over repetitive tasks like order processing, freeing up employees to focus on higher-level strategies and customer engagement.

**Examples of AI and automation in ERP systems:**
- Automated workflows for inventory restocking, order management, and shipment tracking.
- AI-powered analytics for demand forecasting, helping businesses plan for seasonal spikes.
- Chatbots and automated customer service integrations within the [ERP system](https://www.tailor.tech/blog/posts/what-is-an-erp-system-a-beginners-guide-to-erp) to enhance customer experiences.

Through the power of AI and automation, ERP systems can significantly improve both the operational and customer-facing aspects of your e-commerce business.

## Sustainability and ethical sourcing
More than ever, today’s consumers are mindful of where their products come from and how they're made. Sustainability and ethical sourcing are no longer optional — they're requirements to stay competitive in the market. [Studies](https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/consumer-packaged-goods/our-insights/consumers-care-about-sustainability-and-back-it-up-with-their-wallets) [have](https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211014005090/en/Recent-Study-Reveals-More-Than-a-Third-of-Global-Consumers-Are-Willing-to-Pay-More-for-Sustainability-as-Demand-Grows-for-Environmentally-Friendly-Alternatives) [shown](https://newsroom.ibm.com/2022-04-13-IBM-Global-Consumer-Study-Sustainability-Actions-Can-Speak-Louder-Than-Intent) that a growing number of customers are willing to pay more for products from brands that are socially and environmentally responsible.

ERPs play a pivotal role in helping e-commerce businesses manage sustainability initiatives. With advanced tracking and reporting features, the best ERP solutions help companies monitor their supply chains, ensuring their products are sourced ethically and comply with environmental standards. They also help businesses reduce waste by optimizing inventory levels, preventing overproduction, and managing returns in an eco-friendly way.

**ERP features supporting sustainability:**
- Supply chain transparency and tracking to ensure ethical sourcing.
- Reporting tools for sustainability metrics, such as carbon footprint and waste management.
- Optimized inventory management to minimize waste and prevent overstocking.

As sustainability continues to influence consumer behavior, having an ERP that supports these values is imperative for success — today and in the future.

## Data security and compliance
With e-commerce comes an increasing amount of customer data — data that must be protected at all costs. Data breaches and cybersecurity threats are significant concerns for businesses, and governments are stepping in with stringent regulations like [GDPR](https://gdpr-info.eu) and [CCPA](https://oag.ca.gov/privacy/ccpa) to protect consumers. Today's e-commerce businesses need to ensure that their ERP systems comply with these regulations — or face costly fines and damage to their reputation.

The best ERP systems for e-commerce are equipped with robust data security features to safeguard sensitive information, keeping customer data secure through encryption, secure payment gateways, and multi-factor authentication. Moreover, a compliant ERP system can ensure that businesses adhere to regional data privacy laws by managing data collection, storage, and deletion practices.

**Key ERP security features:**
- Data encryption to protect sensitive information.
- Role-based access controls to limit data exposure.
- Compliance management tools for regulations like GDPR and CCPA.

With data breaches on the rise, e-commerce businesses need an ERP that prioritizes security and compliance, ensuring that both customer information and the company’s reputation are protected.

## Scalability for rapid growth
One of the most exciting aspects of e-commerce is its potential for rapid growth. However, as a business scales, its operational needs become more complex. Too often, an ERP system that can’t scale alongside a growing business becomes a bottleneck, causing operational inefficiencies and limiting growth potential. Whether it’s handling higher transaction volumes, adding new product lines, or expanding into international markets, scalability is a critical feature of any modern ERP.

![A laptop sits on a wooden desk next to two documents: one displays a colorful bar and line graph, and the other is a resume with blue headings.](https://proud-diamond-9f85b9c627.media.strapiapp.com/scalability_growth_best_erp_ecommerce_b1b7feb09a.jpg)

Cloud-based ERP solutions are particularly well-suited for scalability, as they can handle fluctuating demand without requiring expensive infrastructure upgrades. With a scalable ERP system, e-commerce businesses can seamlessly grow their operations, from increasing product catalogs to expanding to new markets, without worrying about system limitations.

**Benefits of scalable ERP systems:**
- Cloud infrastructure that allows for quick, cost-effective scaling.
- Support for multiple currencies and international compliance.
- Real-time data processing to handle high volumes of transactions.

Nowadays, the ability to scale without disruption isn't just a luxury — it's essential for growing e-commerce businesses.

## Tailor: Giving e-commerce businesses a competitive edge
As e-commerce continues to evolve, the best ERP systems must be agile, future-proof, and able to adapt to [emerging trends](https://www.tailor.tech/blog/posts/the-future-of-erp-systems:-enterprise-resource-planning-(erp)-trends-for-2024). From omnichannel retail to AI-driven analytics, sustainability, data security, and scalability, it’s clear that businesses need ERPs that do more than manage day-to-day operations — they need a solution that positions them for long-term growth and success.

Tailor’s headless ERP solution is designed to do just that. With its modular architecture, Tailor enables businesses to customize and scale their operations effortlessly while staying ahead of industry trends. Whether you’re looking to integrate AI for more intelligent decision-making, ensure compliance with the latest regulations, or expand into new markets, Tailor’s industry-leading ERP can provide the flexibility and power your business needs to stay competitive.

Ready to future-proof your e-commerce operations?  

[Schedule your demo with Tailor today.](https://www.tailor.tech/demo)
## Quick Answers and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
### How does AI enhance ERP systems for e-commerce?
AI-powered ERP systems optimize e-commerce operations through smart inventory forecasting, custom shopping experiences, and automated price adjustments.

Tailor's AI platform integrates with your current tools to streamline operations and maximize resources. It automates e-commerce workflows while providing actionable insights to help your business run more efficiently and stay competitive.
### Why is data security crucial in ERP systems?
Data security is vital for ERP systems. It protects important business information, like financial records and customer data, from unauthorized access. 

Tailor's robust security features include encryption and compliance tools that ensure adherence to GDPR, CCPA, and other regulations. This comprehensive protection safeguards customer data and company reputation, allowing businesses to focus on growth while maintaining data security in an evolving cyber threat landscape.


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Leading e-commerce ERPs offer AI integration, sustainability tracking, and enhanced security. They provide scalable solutions for growing businesses.

How the Best ERPs for E-Commerce Adapt to Emerging Trends | Tailor

The Future of E-Commerce: How the Best ERPs for E-Commerce Adapt to Emerging Trends

# How to Choose the Best E-commerce Inventory Management Software for Your Business

In today's fast-paced, ultra-competitive e-commerce environment, effective inventory management isn't just important — it's everything.

Whether you’re running a small online boutique or a multi-channel retail empire, managing your stock effectively can significantly affect your bottom line. That's why it's so important to select the right e-commerce inventory management software for your retail operation — one that streamlines your processes, improves order accuracy, and ultimately grows your business.

But with so many options on the market, how do you know which one is the best fit?

In this blog, we’ll guide you through all the critical factors to consider when choosing the best e-commerce inventory management software for your unique needs. We’ll also explain why transitioning to an [ERP system](https://www.tailor.tech/blog/posts/what-is-an-erp-system-a-beginners-guide-to-erp) can provide even greater value in the long run.

Ready? Cool. Let's dig in.

## 1. Identify your business needs

Before you can select your ideal inventory management platform, you've got to understand your business's unique requirements. Think about it — the solution that works for a small online retailer probably won't work for a high-volume business operating across multiple sales channels.

Start by asking yourself a few essential questions about your business:

- How many products do you manage?
- How complex is your supply chain?
- Do you sell through multiple channels (e.g., your website, Amazon, eBay)?
- Do you need real-time inventory updates?
- Are there specific industry regulations or requirements your business has to follow?

By identifying your business's specific challenges and demands, you can narrow down the software options that best fit your needs. For example, if you're a small e-commerce business with a limited product catalog, you'd probably want to prioritize simplicity and ease of use. But if you're a large retailer with a broader catalog and higher order volume, you'll definitely need advanced automation features and multi-channel support.

Another thing: Be sure to consider your future growth plans. A modern inventory management solution should be able to handle your business's demands as it grows, ensuring you won’t need to switch systems every few years.

## 2. Evaluate your desired scalability and flexibility

As your business expands, your inventory will likely grow in complexity, whether you're adding new product lines, experiencing seasonal fluctuations, or even expanding into new markets. Your business needs software that scales seamlessly, stifling costly bottlenecks and inefficiencies.

Some inventory management platforms offer tiered pricing based on the number of SKUs (stock-keeping units) or orders processed. Make sure the software you choose can handle an increase in SKUs or order volume without requiring a major upgrade or additional fees. You'll also need to ensure that the software gives you flexibility in how you manage inventory — allowing for multiple warehouses, stock locations, or suppliers, for instance.

And of course, you'll want to evaluate how the system handles peak times, such as Black Friday or holiday sales. Does it give you the infrastructure you need to manage high order volumes without crashing or slowing down? Scalability isn’t just about growing with you — it’s about keeping up when business is at its busiest.

## 3. Look for integration capabilities

Your e-commerce inventory management software should work seamlessly with the other tools in your tech stack. Be sure to choose a system that integrates with any existing e-commerce platforms (e.g., Shopify, WooCommerce, Magento), payment processors, shipping carriers, and [accounting software](https://www.tailor.tech/blog/posts/accounting-erp-software-guide).

The more integrated your inventory management system is with your other operations, the more streamlined and efficient your business will become. Integration reduces the need for manual data entry, saving time and minimizing the risk of human error. For example, when an order is placed on your website, the inventory should automatically update across all channels to prevent overselling or underselling.

Multi-channel retailers should prioritize software that allows for real-time synchronization between sales channels and warehouses. A robust integration framework means you can manage stock levels and orders in a unified, centralized system, which leads to faster order processing and, ultimately, better customer satisfaction.

## 4. Prioritize user-friendliness and support

User-friendliness is an often-overlooked factor when choosing inventory management software, but it can significantly affect how quickly your team adopts the system. A complex, unintuitive interface can lead to frustration, mistakes, and wasted time, so be sure to look for software with a clean, user-friendly interface that all your team members can easily navigate.

You'll want to consider how easy it is to set up the system, import your existing data, and start managing your inventory. Some platforms, like Tailor, offer a personalized front-end UI designed to fit your business's unique needs. Ultimately, the more intuitive your software is, the less time you’ll spend training employees and troubleshooting issues.

When problems arise — and they will — you'll need quick, reliable assistance. Look for providers that offer 24/7 customer support through multiple channels, whether it's via phone, email, or live chat. And of course, check to see if the company provides comprehensive resources — things like video tutorials, FAQs, and a knowledge base to help you troubleshoot issues independently.

## 5. Check for advanced features

The best e-commerce inventory management software will offer a range of features that help optimize your stock levels, streamline operations, and improve customer satisfaction.

Some of the most valuable features to look for include:

- **Automation.** Automating routine tasks like order processing, stock updates, and reordering can save you time and reduce errors. For instance, the software can automatically trigger reorders when stock levels fall below a certain threshold.
- **Demand forecasting.** Advanced inventory management systems can use historical sales data and trends to predict future demand. This helps you avoid stockouts and overstocking, resulting in better cash flow and more accurate inventory planning.
- **Real-time tracking.** Having real-time visibility into your inventory allows you to make informed decisions, manage stock levels efficiently, and fulfill orders more quickly. This is especially important for businesses that operate in multiple locations or use third-party logistics providers.
- **Reporting and analytics.** A comprehensive reporting system will equip you with deeper insights into your inventory performance, including which products are selling the fastest, where bottlenecks occur, and which channels are the most profitable. Customizable reports can help you analyze trends and make data-driven decisions.

While these features can improve your inventory management processes, they also contribute to long-term business growth. Automation and forecasting, in particular, can improve customer satisfaction by ensuring products are always in stock and orders are fulfilled promptly.

## Tailor's headless ERP software: a more comprehensive e-commerce solution

Choosing the right e-commerce inventory management software is critical. Still, many businesses find that a more comprehensive enterprise resource planning (ERP) solution is even more beneficial, as they integrate inventory management with other vital business functions like accounting, customer relationship management (CRM), and [supply chain management](https://www.tailor.tech/blog/posts/erp-key-role-supply-chain-management/).

By adopting an ERP system like **Tailor**, you can centralize all of your business operations into a single unified platform — so you can manage your inventory alongside other crucial aspects of your business. Tailor's headless ERP solution will give you the scalability and flexibility your e-commerce business needs to thrive in today's ultra-competitive, technology-dependent market. Our easy integrations and highly customizable dashboards will empower you to take a holistic approach to your e-commerce efforts — one that will ultimately increase efficiency, reduce costs, and improve decision-making across your business.

Ready to take your e-commerce inventory management to the next level?

[Schedule your demo with Tailor today](https://www.tailor.tech/demo).

## Quick Answers and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
### How do you manage inventory in ecommerce?
To manage inventory, use a strong inventory management system to track stock levels, orders, and sales across channels. Apply advanced demand forecasting to predict future needs. Set up automated reordering to maintain optimal levels.

[Tailor's headless ERP solution](https://www.tailor.tech/) can unify these tasks with seamless integration, scalability, and automation to improve your inventory management and support growth.

### Which tool is frequently used to manage inventory in ecommerce?
Many tools offer strong inventory management for ecommerce. Shopify, Ordoro, and QuickBooks Commerce (formerly TradeGecko) stand out for their features and integrations. Shopify is popular for its built-in tools. Ordoro excels in advanced inventory and order management across platforms. QuickBooks Commerce has solid features for multi-channel selling and inventory control. For businesses needing a scalable and integrated solution, 

Tailor's headless ERP offers a unified platform that manages inventory and connects with other key business functions, ensuring smooth growth and adaptability.

### What are the different types of inventory management?
Some of the most common inventory management methods are days sales of inventory (DSI), economic order quantity (EOQ), just-in-time management (JIT) and materials requirement planning (MRP). Other types include: 
- ABC Analysis
- First-In, First-Out (FIFO)
- Last-in, first-out (LIFO)
- Safety Stock
- Weighted Average
- Specific Identification
- Perpetual Inventory System
- Periodic Inventory System
- Vendor-Managed Inventory (VMI)
- Consignment Inventory

Composable business systems and headless ERPs, like Tailor, empower businesses to dynamically adapt their inventory management strategy. By integrating modular components and real-time data, Tailor ensures seamless coordination across supply chains, reducing waste and optimizing stock levels. This flexibility allows businesses to implement the right inventory control method for their unique needs without being constrained by rigid ERP systems.

FS_EA-Blog-CriticalInventoryManagement.avif

Streamline operations, improve accuracy, and boost growth with the right e-commerce inventory management software. 

Ecommerce Inventory Management Software: 5 Key Selection Factors | Tailor

How to Choose the Best E-commerce Inventory Management Software for Your Business

# Top 5 Inventory Management Best Practices for Retailers in 2025

Inventory management can make or break your retail business.

Poor inventory control means stockouts, overstocks, and increased carrying costs — issues that can severely impact profitability and customer satisfaction. And as we move into the final quarter of 2024, effective inventory management has never been more crucial.

Not to mention, the retail landscape is evolving — new technologies are emerging, consumer behaviors are shifting, and those pesky supply chain challenges are persisting. That’s why it's so important to implement the right inventory management strategies and keep your competitive edge.

Here are the top five inventory management best practices that every retailer should adopt in 2024 to optimize operations and boost their bottom line.

## 1. Conduct regular inventory audits

An inventory audit is a foundational practice for maintaining accurate inventory levels, allowing retailers to verify that the physical stock matches what’s recorded in their inventory management system. Discrepancies — often caused by theft, administrative errors, or product damage — can lead to incorrect inventory data. Without routine checks, these inaccuracies can snowball, impacting ordering decisions and customer satisfaction (and not in a good way).

Full inventory audits mean counting every item in stock. While thorough, this method is time-consuming and usually performed annually. Cycle counting, on the other hand, breaks inventory checks into smaller, more manageable segments instead of auditing all products at once. Depending on your needs, this can be done daily, weekly, or monthly.

By incorporating regular inventory audits into your management process, you’ll have more visibility and control over your stock levels — and reduce expensive errors.

### Best Practice Tips

- **Use technology.** Barcode scanners, RFID technology, and inventory management software (more on that in a second) can speed up the process and minimize human error.
- **Plan ahead.** Schedule audits during slow business hours or off-peak seasons to minimize disruption to operations.
- **Train staff.** Make sure your employees understand the importance of accurate inventory counts and how to execute an audit properly.

## 2. Leverage inventory management software

In today's tech-driven world, manually tracking inventory isn't a reasonable option — not for retailers who want to stay competitive. Investing in an inventory management solution is one of the best decisions your retail business can make, equipping you with real-time visibility into stock levels, automating reordering, and streamlining the order fulfillment processes.

Retailers who use inventory management software have a significant competitive edge in efficiency, accuracy, and overall control, giving them more time to focus on growth and less on manual processes. Find a provider that offers powerful features like demand forecasting, automatic replenishment, and even integration with point-of-sale (POS) systems that align your inventory with actual sales data.

### Best practice tips

- **Choose software that scales.** As your business grows, your software should grow alongside it. Look for a provider that can handle increasing volumes of inventory and transactions.
- **Integration capabilities.** The best inventory management platforms integrate seamlessly with your other systems — like enterprise resource planning (ERP), accounting, and POS — to offer a holistic view of your operations.
- **Mobile accessibility.** Ensure the software you choose is mobile-friendly — so you can track and manage your inventory from anywhere.

## 3. Optimize reorder points

A reorder point is the inventory level at which new orders should be placed to avoid stockouts, which is pivotal in maintaining the balance between having too much or too little stock. If it's set too low, you risk running out of products and disappointing customers. If it's set too high, you’re tying up capital in excess inventory, which increases storage costs and reduces cash flow.

Optimizing reorder points means you can meet customer demand without overstocking or tying up too much capital in inventory. And to calculate it accurately, you need an understanding of your sales patterns, supplier lead times, and demand fluctuations.

### Best practice tips

- **Monitor lead times.** Regularly review your suppliers’ lead times to ensure your reorder points align with the time it takes to receive new stock.
- **Seasonal adjustments.** During peak seasons or promotional periods, adjust your reorder points to account for increased demand.
- **Safety stock.** Maintain a buffer of safety stock to protect against sudden surges in demand or supplier delays.

## 4. Forecast demand effectively

Accurate demand forecasting is one of the most critical aspects of inventory management, allowing you to align your inventory levels with expected sales and prevent overstocking or stockouts. Demand forecasting isn’t just about looking at historical sales data — it's about analyzing market trends, seasonality, and even economic conditions.

Retailers who master demand forecasting can respond more quickly to changes in consumer behavior and market conditions. And by integrating demand forecasting into your inventory management process, you can ensure you’re always prepared to meet customer needs without overcommitting to excess stock.

### Best practice tips

- **Utilize historical data.** Analyze past sales trends to predict future demand, paying attention to any patterns related to holidays, weather, or economic shifts.
- **Leverage new tech.** Many inventory management software systems offer built-in demand forecasting tools that use machine learning and predictive analytics to generate more accurate forecasts.
- **Account for external factors.** When forecasting demand, consider broader market trends like emerging consumer preferences or shifts in the competitive landscape.

## 5. Build strong supplier relationships

Your suppliers are an integral component of your inventory management process. Building healthy, reliable supplier relationships can help your retail business ensure timely deliveries, better pricing, and more flexible terms. In this fast-paced retail environment, a supplier who can respond quickly to changing demands can be a competitive advantage.

A solid supplier relationship also opens the door to negotiating better terms, from bulk discounts and faster lead times to more favorable payment terms. By maintaining strong supplier relationships, you’ll have more flexibility and reliability in managing your inventory, which can be a key differentiator in today’s ultra-competitive retail market.

### Best practice tips

- **Communicate regularly.** Maintain an open line of communication with your suppliers to stay informed about potential delays, shortages, or changes in pricing.
- **Evaluate performance.** Periodically review your suppliers' delivery times, product quality, and customer service.
- **Diversify suppliers.** Relying on a single supplier for essential products can be risky; diversify your supplier base to protect yourself from disruptions.

![Tailor ERP Logo](https://proud-diamond-9f85b9c627.media.strapiapp.com/test3_3595d5e605.png)

## Tailor ERP: A more robust inventory management solution

While these five best practices can significantly improve your inventory management process, taking it to the next level often requires more advanced tools. That’s where ERP software comes in.

[Tailor's headless ERP](https://www.tailor.tech/) solution offers comprehensive inventory management features that go beyond basic tracking and reordering. With Tailor, you can integrate your inventory data with all the other parts of your business — including finance, sales, and supply chain — arming your retail business with a unified platform for managing every aspect of your operations.

Tailor automates essential inventory management tasks like demand forecasting, order fulfillment, and stock replenishment — so you can make informed decisions based on real-time data. And with our advanced analytics and reporting capabilities, you'll have deeper insights into your inventory performance and opportunities for improvement.

So whether you’re struggling with stockouts, excess inventory, or inefficient processes, Tailor can help you take control of your inventory and drive better business outcomes.

Ready to see how Tailor can transform your inventory management?

[Schedule a demo today](https://form.typeform.com/to/QONhVIuj?typeform-source=www.tailor.tech).
## Quick Answers and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
### What are the main steps in inventory management?
Effective inventory management consists of four key steps: 

1. Demand forecasting: Predict future needs using historical data and market trends 
2. Real-time tracking: Monitor stock levels through barcoding and RFID technology 
3. Reorder automation: Place new orders when inventory reaches preset thresholds 
4. Performance analysis: Review data to optimize inventory decisions 

Tailor's ERP solutions integrate these steps with real-time data and analytics to streamline inventory management and drive growth.
### What is the golden rule for inventory?
The key to inventory management is maintaining visibility and control over stock levels. This involves regular audits, using inventory management software, optimizing reorder points, forecasting demand, and building strong supplier relationships. By leveraging real-time data and automation, businesses can minimize stockouts, reduce excess inventory, and improve cash flow.
### How does inventory management software benefit retailers?
Inventory management software helps retailers automate stock control, reduce errors, and make data-driven decisions. This ensures optimal inventory levels and product availability, ultimately improving customer satisfaction.
### How can demand forecasting improve inventory management?
Accurate demand forecasting helps businesses maintain optimal inventory levels by predicting customer needs, preventing stockouts and excess inventory. This leads to improved operations, happier customers, and higher profits.

Tailor's ERP solution empowers businesses with advanced forecasting tools to anticipate market trends and efficiently manage inventory, ensuring they're prepared to meet customer needs without unnecessary overstock.
### Why are strong supplier relationships crucial for inventory?
Strong supplier relationships improve inventory management by enabling accurate forecasting, lowering costs, and maintaining quality standards. These partnerships help businesses quickly adjust to market changes and prevent supply disruptions.

[Tailor's ERP system](https://www.tailor.tech/) streamlines supplier partnerships through real-time data sharing and automated procurement, improving inventory management and efficiency.


A person stands in a storage area, surrounded by wooden boards and shelves, gazing to the side.

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Regular audits, software adoption, optimized reorder points, forecasting, and strong supplier relationships form the core of effective inventory management.

5 Inventory Management Best Practices for 2025 Retail Success | Tailor

Top 5 Inventory Management Best Practices for Retailers in 2025

# How ERP Software Is Revolutionizing Inventory Management for Retail Stores

Retailers don't have it easy these days. For starters, they have the unenviable task of constantly striking the right balance between stock availability and demand, ensuring that popular items are always in supply while avoiding overstocking less desirable products, which is crucial for a positive retail experience. Traditional methods of inventory management, which often rely on manual tracking and disconnected systems, lack the key features necessary in today’s fast-paced, data-driven retail operations environment.

This is where enterprise resource planning (ERP) software comes into play — offering retail stores a comprehensive solution to revolutionize their warehouse management and inventory management processes through data-driven decisions.

## Understanding ERP and its role in retail

[ERP systems](https://www.tailor.tech/blog/posts/what-is-an-erp-system-a-beginners-guide-to-erp) are integrated software platforms that manage a company’s core business processes—from HR and financial management to supply chain and inventory management—all within a single system. For retailers, an ERP system is particularly valuable as it connects various aspects of the business, from sales and customer service to procurement and logistics. By centralizing these functions, ERP systems provide a real-time view of business operations, which can lead to better decision-making and increased efficiency.

In retail, inventory management is one of the most critical areas where ERP systems can make a significant impact. An effective ERP tracks inventory levels and automates various processes, such as reordering, supplier management, and sales forecasting. This level of integration and automation empowers retailers to maintain optimal inventory levels, reduce costs, and ultimately improve customer satisfaction.

## Streamlining inventory tracking

One of the most significant advantages of using an ERP system in retail is the ability to track inventory in real time across all sales channels, whether in-store or online. This is especially important in today’s omnichannel retail environment, where customers expect seamless shopping experiences regardless of where they choose to make a purchase.

With an ERP, retailers have visibility into their inventory levels at any moment across all locations, enhancing their overall supply chain management capabilities. This real-time tracking eliminates the guesswork associated with manual inventory management, where stock discrepancies are common due to human error or delayed data entry. By providing accurate, up-to-date information on stock levels, ERPs help retailers make informed decisions about reordering, promotions, and stock transfers between locations.

For example, if a popular item runs low at one store, the ERP can automatically trigger a transfer from another location where the item is in surplus. This ensures that customers always find what they need, reducing the likelihood of lost sales due to stockouts.

## Minimizing stockouts and overstocks

![erp retail inventory management stockout](https://proud-diamond-9f85b9c627.media.strapiapp.com/erp_retail_inventory_management_stockout_07ed99c5bd.jpg)

Stockouts and overstocks are two of retailers' most common inventory management challenges. Stockouts occur when an item is out of stock, leading to missed sales opportunities and a negative customer experience. Overstocks, on the other hand, tie up capital in unsold inventory, increasing storage costs and the risk of obsolescence.

ERPs help retailers maintain the proper balance by providing tools for automated reorder points and demand forecasting. These features allow retailers to set minimum stock levels for each product, automatically triggering a reorder when inventory falls below a certain threshold. This prevents stockouts by ensuring that popular items are always available for purchase.

Demand forecasting, another powerful feature of ERP systems, uses historical sales data and market trends to predict a product's future demand. By analyzing this data, retailers can make more accurate purchasing decisions and avoid the risk of overstocking. For example, an ERP might identify that a particular product sells better during certain seasons or in specific regions, allowing the retailer to adjust their inventory levels accordingly.

## Enhancing supplier relationships and replenishment

Effective inventory management for retail businesses isn’t just about what happens within the store; it also involves managing relationships with suppliers to ensure timely and cost-effective stock replenishment. ERP software excels in this area by automating and streamlining supplier management processes.

With an ERP, retailers can automate purchase orders based on real-time inventory levels and sales data, speeding up the ordering process and reducing the risk of human error. Retailers can also use the system to track supplier performance, including delivery times and order accuracy, which makes it easier to identify and address any issues that could impact their inventory levels.

ERPs also have tools for managing supplier contracts and pricing agreements, allowing retailers to negotiate better deals and optimize their procurement processes. For instance, a retailer might use their ERP to identify opportunities for bulk purchasing or to consolidate orders from multiple locations, reducing shipping costs and improving overall supply chain efficiency.

## Real-time data and analytics for smarter decision-making

In today's retail environment, data is king. Accessing and analyzing real-time data is crucial for making informed decisions that drive business success. ERP platforms provide powerful analytics tools that give retailers deep insights into their inventory, sales, and operations.

With an ERP, retailers can generate detailed reports on inventory turnover, slow-moving items, and sales trends. This is invaluable information for making strategic decisions about which products to promote, which to discount, and which to discontinue. If, for example, a retailer notices that a particular product is consistently underperforming, they might decide to stop stocking it and replace it with a more popular item.

ERPs also enable retailers to forecast demand more accurately, reducing the likelihood of stockouts and overstocks. By analyzing historical sales data and market trends, retailers can anticipate changes in customer demand and adjust their inventory levels accordingly. This helps maximize sales and reduces the risk of holding excess inventory that could become obsolete.

## The role of ERP in managing multi-location inventory

![A warehouse interior featuring tall shelves filled with boxes, containers, and assorted items. A central aisle runs through the space, ending at a closed door in the background.](https://proud-diamond-9f85b9c627.media.strapiapp.com/erp_retail_inventory_management_warehouse_b13e95c32e.jpg)

For retailers with multiple store locations, managing inventory can be particularly challenging. Without a centralized system, tracking stock levels across different locations can be difficult, leading to inefficiencies and lost sales opportunities. ERP software solves this problem by providing a unified, single source platform for managing inventory across all stores.

With an ERP, retailers can quickly transfer inventory between locations to meet demand. So, if one store runs low on a particular item, the system can automatically initiate a transfer from another location where the item is in surplus. This ensures that all stores are adequately stocked, reducing the risk of stockouts and improving customer satisfaction.

ERPs also provide real-time visibility into inventory levels at each location, allowing retailers to make informed decisions about where to allocate stock. This is particularly important for retailers with regional or seasonal variations in demand, as it enables them to optimize their inventory levels based on local market conditions.

## Reducing manual errors and labor costs

Manual inventory management processes are prone to errors — bad things like miscounting items, entering incorrect data, or failing to update records in a timely manner. These errors can have serious consequences, leading to stock discrepancies, lost sales, and increased labor costs.

ERP software eliminates many of these manual tasks by automating inventory management processes. For example, instead of manually counting stock levels and entering the data into a spreadsheet, staff can use barcode scanners or RFID technology to update inventory records in real time. This reduces the risk of errors and frees up staff to focus on more value-added activities, like assisting customers or merchandising the store.

ERPs can also help retailers reduce labor costs by automating routine tasks. For instance, automated reordering and supplier management processes mean that staff no longer need to manually create purchase orders or follow up with suppliers. Instead, the ERP can handle these tasks automatically, allowing staff to focus on more strategic activities that contribute to the store’s success.

## Tailor: A better way to manage your inventory

Put simply, effective inventory management is critical to success, especially in today’s ultra-competitive retail environment. ERP software offers retailers a powerful solution for streamlining inventory management processes, reducing costs, and improving operational efficiency. By providing real-time visibility into inventory levels, automating routine tasks, and offering advanced analytics capabilities, ERP systems enable retailers to make smarter decisions and stay ahead of the competition.

For retailers looking to revolutionize their inventory management processes, [Tailor's headless ERP](https://www.tailor.tech/) offers an innovative, state-of-the-art solution. Whether you’re a small shop looking to scale your operations or a large chain seeking to optimize your supply chain, our ERP technology can provide the tools and insights you need to succeed in today’s fast-paced, data-driven retail environment.

Ready to take your inventory management to the next level?

[Schedule your demo today](https://form.typeform.com/to/QONhVIuj?typeform-source=www.tailor.tech).

A person wearing a beanie and vest uses a tablet and barcode scanner in a warehouse with shelves filled with large containers.

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Frustrated with inventory chaos? ERP for retail stores offers real-time tracking, automated reordering, and demand forecasting.

ERP for Retail Stores: Transform Your Inventory Management | Tailor

How ERP Software Is Revolutionizing Inventory Management for Retail Stores

# What Makes the Best ERP for Retail? A Guide to Customization and Flexibility

In the fast-paced retail world, the ability to adapt quickly to changing consumer preferences, market conditions, and business growth is enormous.

Today's retailers face increasing pressure to manage more than traditional in-store operations, from e-commerce platforms and omnichannel strategies to complex supply chain issues. To meet these demands, businesses need technology that's powerful, flexible, and customizable. This is where finding the best ERP for retail comes into play.

A one-size-fits-all ERP solution might be good for some industries, but retail isn't one of them — a more tailored approach is typically the way to go. Flexibility and customization can make a massive difference, allowing retailers to shape their [ERP systems](https://www.tailor.tech/blog/posts/what-is-an-erp-system-a-beginners-guide-to-erp) according to their needs.

In this blog, we'll explain why these features are critical for retailers — and how you can evaluate ERP systems to find the best fit for your business.

## Why flexibility is critical — especially in retail

The retail industry is anything but static; trends shift, consumer behavior changes, and what worked last year might not work tomorrow. With all of this variability, the ability to adapt is paramount.

Retail is a diverse industry that includes everything from small boutiques to large multinational chains, with smaller subcategories like fashion, electronics, and groceries. The operational needs of a small luxury brand, for example, are vastly different from those of a discount department store. An ERP system that forces businesses into rigid workflows or preset configurations may limit their ability to grow or pivot when needed.

In recent years, retailers have had to adapt to the rise of e-commerce, the growth of direct-to-consumer brands, and the expansion of omnichannel strategies that integrate both online and offline operations. These trends require ERP systems that can handle complex inventory management, support multiple sales channels, and integrate with third-party tools like customer relationship management (CRM) and marketing automation software.

Growth is another significant challenge for retailers. As businesses scale — adding new stores, expanding into new markets, or launching new product lines — their operational needs become more complex. A flexible ERP system can grow alongside the business, allowing retailers to add or modify functionalities without overhauling their entire system. This level of adaptability makes ERP flexibility a critical factor for long-term business success.

## 4 customization features to look for in a retail ERP



When it comes to customization, not all ERP systems are created equal. To make sure your business gets the most out of its ERP investment, look for these features that improve customization and flexibility.

1. **Modular design.** This is one of the most valuable aspects of owning a flexible ERP system. Modular systems allow retailers to pick and choose their desired features, adding modules like inventory management, CRM, financials, or point-of-sale (POS) integration as their business requires. This means you only pay for what you use, and you can expand or refine your system over time.
2. **Configurable dashboards.** Retailers need access to real-time insights, and configurable dashboards make it easier to monitor the metrics that matter most to your business. Whether you want to track sales performance, inventory levels, or customer behavior, a customizable dashboard allows each department or user to view the most relevant data to their role.
3. **Custom workflows.** Every retailer has unique operational processes, and an ERP system that supports custom workflows can significantly increase efficiency. Custom workflows allow businesses to set up automated processes for tasks like order fulfillment, restocking, or customer service management. And by aligning these workflows with your specific needs, you can reduce errors, speed up operations, and improve overall productivity.
4. **Third-party integrations.** Retailers rely on a wide range of software tools, from e-commerce platforms like Shopify to marketing automation tools like HubSpot. To create a unified system that works across all parts of your business, your ERP system needs to integrate seamlessly with these third-party tools. A flexible ERP will offer robust integration capabilities, ensuring all your systems communicate effectively and share critical data.

## Benefits of a highly customizable retail ERP

[Choosing an ERP system](https://www.tailor.tech/blog/posts/erp-for-retail-stores) with solid customization capabilities can bring numerous benefits to retailers:

- **Enhanced efficiency.** Customization allows retailers to fine-tune their operations, eliminating unnecessary steps and reducing manual intervention. This can lead to more efficient processes across inventory management, order processing, and customer service. For instance, a retailer that sets up custom workflows for restocking based on real-time sales data can avoid stockouts and ensure that high-demand products are always available.
- **Scalability.** As your business grows, so will your operational needs. A [customizable ERP system](https://www.tailor.tech/) allows you to scale your operations without needing to switch to a new platform. Whether you’re opening new stores, expanding into new product categories, or launching new sales channels, a flexible ERP will grow alongside your business, allowing you to add new modules or capabilities as needed.
- **Improved decision-making.** With a customizable ERP system, you can generate reports and insights tailored to your business goals. Whether you're tracking sales performance, customer loyalty, or supply chain efficiency, having access to the right data at the right time will help you make informed decisions that drive profitability and growth.

## Challenges of customizing ERP for retail

While customization offers many benefits, it also comes with challenges that retailers need to consider.

- **Cost implications.** Customizing an ERP system often comes with higher upfront costs. Configuring the system to your specific needs, integrating it with other software, and training your team on its use can be more expensive than opting for an out-of-the-box solution. Be sure to weigh the long-term benefits of customization against these initial costs to ensure the investment pays off.
- **Complexity.** Too much customization can backfire on occasion. Over-customizing an ERP system can create unnecessary complexity, making it harder to manage and maintain. This could lead to inefficiencies and potentially reduce the benefits of automation. That's why it's essential to strike a balance between tailoring the system to your needs and keeping it user-friendly.
- **Vendor lock-in.** Heavy customization can sometimes create a dependency on specific vendors. If the vendor’s system is deeply integrated into your business, switching to a new ERP provider could become costly and disruptive. Carefully evaluate a vendor's customization options to ensure you maintain enough flexibility to switch vendors if needed.

## Real-world examples of customizable retail ERP systems

![A row of colorful shirts on wooden hangers in a store, featuring different patterns and designs.](https://proud-diamond-9f85b9c627.media.strapiapp.com/pexels_willoworld_3768005_7f82d13fc7.jpg)

Let’s take a look at a couple of real-world examples of retailers using highly customizable ERP systems to their advantage.

### Case Study 1: Omnichannel success with a modular ERP system

A mid-sized fashion retailer struggled to manage inventory across both online and physical stores. However, by implementing a [modular ERP system](https://www.tailor.tech/blog/posts/modular-erp-system-advantages-and-disadvantages) with built-in omnichannel capabilities, they were able to synchronize their inventory in real time, ensuring that products were always available to customers regardless of the channel they shopped through. Custom workflows also helped streamline fulfillment, cutting order processing times in half.

### Case Study 2: Scalable growth in a global market

A small electronics retailer expanded into international markets and needed an ERP system that could handle complex logistics, multiple currencies, and different tax regulations. Using a customizable ERP, they configured the system to meet the specific legal and financial requirements of each country they operated in. The flexibility of the ERP allowed them to expand smoothly without needing to overhaul their entire operation.

## How to assess an ERP's customization capabilities

When evaluating ERP platforms for customization, it's important to know what to look for and how to assess the system’s flexibility.

- **Vendor conversations.** During vendor demos, ask specific questions about customization options. Request examples of how the ERP has been customized for other retail businesses similar to yours and find out what the customization process looks like.
- **Trial periods.** Take advantage of free trials or demo environments offered by vendors. Use this time to explore customization options, test out modules, and experiment with creating custom reports and workflows. This hands-on experience will give you a better sense of the system’s flexibility and whether it meets your needs.
- **Industry fit.** Some ERP systems are better suited to specific retail segments than others. For example, certain systems may be optimized for fashion retail, while others are better for grocery stores. Make sure the ERP system you choose has a proven track record in your specific niche.

## Tailor: Taking retail ERP into a more flexible future

As businesses grow and the retail landscape continues to evolve, having an ERP solution that can adapt to your unique needs will position your business for long-term success. In other words, customization and flexibility are no longer just added perks — they're essential components of a successful ERP system for retail.

That's why [Tailor's headless ERP](https://www.tailor.tech/) technology allows you to build and integrate the exact features your business requires — without being locked into a rigid system. With a uniquely modular design, custom workflows, and real-time data insights, Tailor will equip your business with the tools it needs to succeed today and into the future.

Ready to see how Tailor's one-of-a-kind, highly customizable design can help your retail business thrive?

[Book your demo today](https://form.typeform.com/to/QONhVIuj?typeform-source=www.tailor.tech).

## Quick Answers and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
### What are the 3 common types of ERP?
[ERP systems have three main forms](https://www.tailor.tech/blog/posts/erp-systems-types), each with unique benefits: 

- On-premise ERP is installed on a company's hardware, providing control but needing in-house management. 

- Cloud-based ERP is hosted on the vendor's servers, offering remote access and lower hardware maintenance. 

- Hybrid ERP combines on-premise and cloud features, allowing businesses to use both private and public cloud services.

Tailor's ERP solutions help businesses with flexible, scalable, and customized setups that integrate smoothly with existing systems, boosting efficiency and growth.

### Is QuickBooks an ERP system?
QuickBooks is mainly an accounting tool, but it can work as a basic ERP option for small to medium businesses when it connects with third-party apps. Still, it lacks the full features of a true ERP system, which usually covers supply chain management and human resources. 

For a stronger solution, Tailor offers a customizable ERP system that integrates with existing tools, helping businesses scale and improve operations.

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Learn how customizable ERP for retail enhances efficiency, enables scalability, and improves decision-making for your business.

ERP for Retail: 4 Key Customization Features for Success | Tailor

What Makes the Best ERP for Retail? A Guide to Customization and Flexibility

To be competitive, you have to stay ahead of the curve. This is true in all aspects of life, but it's *especially* true in today's rapidly evolving technological landscape. For this reason, ERP software has become essential for retailers of all sizes, helping them streamline operations, manage inventory, enhance customer experiences, and provide a data-driven foundation for growth.

In 2024, ERP systems are advancing more rapidly than ever, helping retail businesses of all shapes and sizes meet the industry's changing demands. From harnessing the power of artificial intelligence to supporting sustainability initiatives, ERPs are moving beyond basic inventory and accounting functions to offer more sophisticated tools for retail businesses.

In this blog, we’ll explore the top five [ERP trends](https://www.tailor.tech/blog/posts/the-future-of-erp-systems:-enterprise-resource-planning-(erp)-trends-for-2024) for the retail industry in 2024, equipping you and your business with insights on how these trends can transform your operations and boost your competitive edge.

Let's start trending.

## **Trend 1: AI and machine learning integration**

![Close-up of a computer screen showing lines of code with various colors for syntax highlighting.](https://proud-diamond-9f85b9c627.media.strapiapp.com/pexels_markusspiske_2061168_784bb11af5.jpg)

AI and machine learning ML have been buzzwords in the tech world for years, but in 2024, these technologies have become more accessible and powerful than ever within ERP systems. AI and ML enable retailers to unlock the full potential of their data, provide predictive insights, and automate critical processes that would otherwise require human intervention.

One of the most significant impacts of AI-driven ERP systems is predictive analytics. By analyzing historical data, AI-powered ERP systems can forecast demand more accurately, enabling retailers to optimize inventory management, prevent stockouts, and reduce excess inventory. This is especially important in industries such as fashion and electronics, where consumer preferences can change quickly.

Another area where AI is making waves is personalized customer experiences. By analyzing customer behavior, AI-driven ERP systems can help retailers tailor marketing campaigns, product recommendations, and even pricing strategies to individual customers. This level of personalization not only enhances the shopping experience but also drives higher customer retention and loyalty.

Take, for instance, the case of a large apparel retailer that implemented an [AI-powered ERP system](https://www.tailor.tech/blog/posts/what-is-an-erp-system-a-beginners-guide-to-erp) to manage its inventory. Using machine learning algorithms to predict demand, the retailer reduced excess inventory by 20% while increasing the availability of top-selling items. The system also provided real-time insights into customer preferences, allowing the retailer to adjust its product offerings and marketing strategies in near real-time, leading to a 15% increase in sales.

## **Trend 2: Real-time data and analytics**

![A tablet showing an analytics dashboard with a pie chart, line graph, and data summary on a wooden table; a blurred cup and smartphone are in the background.](https://proud-diamond-9f85b9c627.media.strapiapp.com/pexels_wdnet_106344_9784d708c2.jpg)

In an era where agility is critical, access to real-time data has become a game-changer for retailers. ERP systems in 2024 are emphasizing real-time data and analytics, allowing retailers to make informed decisions faster than ever.

Real-time data empowers retailers to respond quickly to changes in the market, customer behavior, and supply chain disruptions. For instance, if a particular product is selling faster than expected, a real-time ERP system can alert the retailer to replenish stock before it runs out, ensuring that customers aren't disappointed when they try to make a purchase.

Beyond inventory management, real-time analytics provide actionable insights across all areas of retail operations, from sales and marketing to financial performance. Retailers can track KPIs, monitor customer behavior, and identify trends as they happen, allowing them to adjust strategies on the fly and maintain a competitive edge.

Imagine, for example, a leading electronics retailer utilizing a real-time ERP system to monitor sales and inventory across its multiple locations. If a sudden spike in demand for a new product occurred, the retailer could instantly allocate additional stock to the stores that needed it most, ensuring that customers could find what they were looking for. The ability to make these rapid decisions in real time could result in a significant revenue increase for that product line.

## **Trend 3: Omnichannel capabilities**

![A person sitting with a laptop on their lap, holding a credit card in one hand.](https://proud-diamond-9f85b9c627.media.strapiapp.com/pexels_karolina_grabowska_4968391_670a53aa0e.jpg)

Consumers today expect seamless shopping experiences, whether they're browsing online, shopping in-store, or using mobile apps. This shift toward omnichannel retailing has put pressure on retailers to integrate their operations across all channels — and ERP systems are playing a central role in making that happen.

Modern ERP systems are designed with omnichannel capabilities that allow retailers to centralize data from various touchpoints, providing a unified view of inventory, sales, and customer interactions. This integration means customers have consistent experiences — no matter how or where they shop.

Additionally, omnichannel ERP systems provide customers with accurate information about product availability across different locations, enable smooth returns regardless of where the purchase was made, and offer personalized promotions that reflect both online and in-store behavior. All of these things help retailers improve customer satisfaction, optimize inventory management, and reduce costs.

Take, for instance, a mid-sized retail chain that implemented an omnichannel ERP system to unify its online and offline operations. By integrating inventory data across all locations, the retailer could offer customers the option to buy online, pick up in-store, and return items at any location, regardless of where the purchase was made. This, in turn, would significantly increase online sales and reduce return processing times.

## **Trend 4: Cloud-based ERP solutions**

![A person sitting with a laptop on their lap, holding a credit card in one hand.](https://proud-diamond-9f85b9c627.media.strapiapp.com/pexels_kindelmedia_7651803_83b9a688bd.jpg)

The shift to cloud-based ERP solutions isn't new. But in 2024, the benefits of cloud ERP have become even more pronounced, as retailers increasingly turn to cloud-based systems for their scalability, flexibility, and cost efficiency.

[Cloud-based ERP solutions](https://www.tailor.tech/blog/posts/guide-to-cloud-erp-software) allow retailers to scale their operations quickly without a significant upfront investment in IT infrastructure. This is especially valuable for small and medium-sized retailers that need to adapt to fluctuations in demand, whether they want to expand their operations or deal with seasonal spikes in sales.

Cloud ERP systems also offer more flexibility, empowering retailers to access their systems from anywhere, at any time. This is particularly beneficial in the era of remote work, where employees need to collaborate and access critical information regardless of their location. Additionally, most cloud-based ERP systems offer automatic updates and maintenance, ensuring that retailers can always access the latest features and security measures without the hassle of manual upgrades.

To illustrate these points, imagine a growing online retailer that migrated to a cloud-based ERP system to support its expansion into new markets. The cloud's flexibility allows the retailer to easily add new users, integrate third-party applications, and scale its operations without any downtime. It also gives users real-time insights into sales and inventory — so they can stay agile and responsive to changing customer demands. Not to mention, the switch would significantly reduce IT costs and increase operational efficiency.

## **Trend 5: Sustainability and ethical sourcing features**

![Solar panels on a sunny day with some clouds in the blue sky.](https://proud-diamond-9f85b9c627.media.strapiapp.com/pexels_pixabay_356036_d9ab514195.jpg)

Sustainability is no longer a niche concern in the retail industry — it's a business imperative. As consumers become more environmentally conscious, retailers are under pressure to meet sustainability goals and ensure that their supply chains are ethical and transparent. In 2024, ERP systems are stepping up to help retailers achieve these goals.

ERP systems are increasingly incorporating features that allow retailers to track and manage their sustainability efforts, from reducing carbon emissions to ensuring ethical sourcing. Many modern ERP systems can even track the environmental impact of each stage of the supply chain, allowing retailers to make informed decisions about suppliers and logistics partners.

What's more, ERPs are helping retailers minimize waste by optimizing inventory management and reducing overproduction. With a better understanding of supply chains and their environmental impact, retailers can reduce costs and improve their brand reputation by demonstrating a commitment to sustainability.

A large grocery retailer, for instance, could use an ERP's sustainability features to track its carbon footprint across the supply chain. By identifying areas where emissions were highest, the retailer could switch to more eco-friendly transportation options and work with suppliers that meet its sustainability standards. As a result, the retailer could reduce its carbon emissions while improving its relationships with environmentally conscious consumers.

## **Trend 6: Headless ERP**

![A person in a cap and glasses looks intently at computer screens showing code in a dimly lit room.](https://proud-diamond-9f85b9c627.media.strapiapp.com/pexels_mikhail_nilov_6963098_5cc0fa190b.jpg)

[Headless ERPs](https://www.tailor.tech/) separate backend functionalities from the frontend interface, allowing businesses to, ahem, *tailor* their front end to meet their unique needs while keeping their back end intact. With this flexibility, retailers can create highly customized customer experiences and business operations — without being confined by the limitations of standard ERP user interfaces.

Instead, retailers can develop their own frontend applications or integrate third-party applications to interact with their ERP's back end, creating seamless workflows across multiple departments and touchpoints. This is particularly important for businesses with complex operations or highly personalized customer experiences.

With Tailor’s headless ERP, retailers can bolster their omnichannel strategies by connecting multiple customer-facing platforms — whether it's a website, mobile app, or point-of-sale system — directly to the ERP's back end. This ensures consistency in data and processes across all channels, leading to more efficient operations and a better customer experience.

For example, a global retail brand might implement our headless ERP software to support multiple channels, including e-commerce, physical stores, and a mobile app. Tailor’s headless architecture would allow them to build a customized mobile app that offers a unique user experience, while the backend handles inventory management, order processing, and customer data. This allow’s them to provide a better customer experience with real-time order status updates and personalized recommendations, boosting mobile app usage — and overall sales.

## **Tailor: Taking ERP software into the future**

The retail industry is at a crossroads, and staying competitive means embracing innovation. In 2024, the trends shaping ERP systems give retailers the tools they need to thrive in a challenging and fast-moving market.

Tailor's cutting-edge ERP platform empowers retailers to innovate and adapt quickly — so they can respond to the evolving demands of the modern retail landscape. Our industry-leading headless technology helps retailers create unique customer experiences and optimize their operations — all while maintaining the stability and reliability of their ERP systems. Whether you're looking to upgrade your current system or simply exploring your options, Tailor's headless ERP platform can help your retail business thrive — in 2024 and beyond.

Ready to see how Tailor can help you level up your business?

[Schedule your demo today](https://form.typeform.com/to/QONhVIuj?typeform-source=www.tailor.tech).
## Quick Answers and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
### What are the benefits of AI in ERP systems?
AI in ERP systems transforms traditional software into a proactive, data-driven powerhouse. It predicts trends, automates repetitive tasks, and optimizes decision-making — reducing manual work and improving operational efficiency. With predictive analytics, AI helps businesses stay ahead by forecasting demand, preventing stockouts, and adjusting strategies in real-time and without manual intervention. AI also enhances personalization, providing tailored and timely insights that inform business decisions.

Tailor’s AI-powered ERP system leverages machine learning and intelligent automation to streamline processes, optimize inventory, and enable growth while minimizing inefficiencies.
### What advantages do cloud-based ERPs offer?
Cloud ERP systems enable business growth by providing scalable operations without heavy IT investments, allowing companies to adapt quickly to market demands.

Tailor's cloud ERP streamlines operations by connecting systems and providing real-time data access. Teams can collaborate better and make quick, data-driven decisions. Automatic updates and maintenance reduce IT workload.
### How do ERPs support sustainability in retail?
ERP systems enhance retail sustainability by streamlining operations, optimizing inventory management, and creating transparent supply chains. This reduces waste, ensures ethical sourcing, and minimizes environmental impact through efficient logistics.

With Tailor's customizable ERP solutions, retailers can seamlessly integrate sustainability into their operations, meeting eco-conscious consumer demands, enhancing brand reputation, and boosting efficiency.


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AI, real-time analytics, and omnichannel capabilities lead 2025's ERP retail trends. Cloud solutions and sustainability features also drive transformation.

6 ERP Retail Trends Reshaping Industry in 2025 | Tailor

6 ERP Trends Transforming the Retail Industry in 2025

Imagine you’re a mid-sized clothing retailer with both physical stores and an online presence. [You’ve faced your share of challenges](https://solink.com/resources/industry-insights/threats-to-the-retail-industry/): managing inventory, providing personalized customer experiences, streamlining operations across multiple sales channels. Wouldn’t it be nice if there was a modern, innovative tool designed specifically to help you overcome these obstacles? 

Fortunately, there is: enterprise resource planning software, otherwise known as an ERP.

So what, exactly, is ERP software? Why is it so important to retailers? And how can you find the right one for your retail business?

In this guide, we'll explain all the key features and benefits of a retail ERP, from managing your inventory to increasing your flexibility in a rapidly evolving market. 
So whether you're a small boutique or a large retail chain, you'll have the guidance you need to choose your ideal platform.

Ready? Good. Let’s dig in.

## What is ERP software anyway? And how does it help retailers?
[Retail ERP software](https://www.tailor.tech/blog/posts/erp-for-retail-stores) is a flexible, wide-ranging technology designed [to help retailers integrate and manage all their core processes](https://www.tailor.tech/integrations) in a single unified system. The best part? It can be tailored to meet the unique challenges of managing a modern retail operation, with a variety of features that simplify and optimize every aspect of the business.

By integrating all these customizable processes into one platform, retail ERP software makes running a complex operation more efficient, while also providing data-based insights that drive better business decisions. In today’s dynamic business landscape, it's an indispensable tool for modern retailers.

## What are the must-have ERP features for retailers?
![A person holds a tablet in a warehouse, showing augmented reality data with order pick times for items on the shelves.](https://proud-diamond-9f85b9c627.media.strapiapp.com/retail_software_plainconcepts_e8c8bf2ce4.jpg)

With ERP software, retailers have access to a variety of powerful, innovative features, each one meticulously designed to improve sales and grow business. Here are some of the most important features to look for in a solution.

- **Inventory Management:** Retail ERP software provides real-time tracking of inventory levels across multiple locations. This helps retailers avoid stockouts and overstock situations, ensuring that customer favorites are always available while reducing excess inventory costs. 

- **Point of Sale (POS) Integration:** POS integration automatically updates sales data from physical and online stores in the ERP system. With this seamless flow of information, retailers can benefit from more accurate sales tracking, improved inventory management, and a holistic view of sales performance.

- **Customer Relationship Management (CRM):** ERP software's CRM features help retailers effectively manage their customer data and interactions. By analyzing purchasing behaviors and preferences, retail businesses can personalize their marketing efforts and improve customer satisfaction, which can lead to a more loyal customer base.

- **Supply Chain Management:** Efficient [supply chain management tools within the ERP platform](https://www.tailor.tech/blog/posts/erp-key-role-supply-chain-management) help retailers manage the flow of goods from suppliers to customers. This includes things like order processing, inventory replenishment, and vendor management, all of which help ensure timely delivery and minimal disruptions.

- **Financial Management:** Retail ERP software also integrates financial processes like accounts payable, accounts receivable, and general ledger management, providing a clear and accurate picture of the retailer’s economic health and encouraging more effective financial planning.

- **Employee Management:** Managing staff schedules, payroll, and performance becomes more efficient with ERP software. This feature helps retailers optimize labor costs and improve staff productivity while also ensuring compliance with labor laws and regulations.

- **Data Analytics and Reporting:** ERP software's AI-powered analytics and reporting tools help retailers gain valuable insights from their data. This allows for more informed decision-making based on real-time reports on sales trends, inventory levels, and even customer behavior.

- **Multi-Channel Retailing Support:** ERP software also supports multi-channel retailing, which allows businesses to manage both brick-and-mortar and online stores from a single platform. This helps ensure consistent inventory levels, pricing, and promotions across every sales channel.

These features work together to provide retailers with an array of benefits, helping them remain competitive in an increasingly tech-driven industry. 

## How will ERP Software Benefit my Retail Business?
ERP software offers a variety of advantages for retail businesses — almost too many to count. For the sake of brevity, here are some of the most significant.

- **Better Inventory Control:** ERP’s real-time inventory tracking means retailers can maintain optimal stock levels, avoiding the pitfalls of stockouts and overstock situations. This helps make sure that popular items are always available, which can lead to more satisfied customers and, as a result, more revenue for your business.

- **Improved Customer Experience:** With robust CRM functionality, retail ERP software helps businesses craft more personalized customer interactions. A  better understanding of customer preferences and purchasing behavior means retailers can tailor their marketing efforts and offer personalized promotions, providing top-tier service to an increasingly loyal customer base.

- **Streamlined Operations and Increased Efficiency:** By integrating a variety of business processes into a single system, retail ERP software reduces manual tasks and minimizes human errors. This simplified approach results in faster order processing, more efficient supply chain management, and more productive employees.

- **Better Financial Management and Reporting:** ERP software's financial management tools are robust, equipping retailers with accurate and up-to-date financial data. This helps them better manage their finances, create precise budgets, and generate detailed financial reports that aid in strategic planning and decision-making.

- **Data-Driven Decision Making:** Retail ERP software also provides game-changing analytics and reporting capabilities, which allow retailers to gather more actionable insights from their data. By analyzing sales trends, customer behaviors, and inventory levels, retailers can make informed decisions that drive profitability and growth.

- **Scalability and Flexibility:** ERP solutions are designed to grow alongside the businesses that use them. So whether a retailer expands its product lines or opens new stores, the [ERP system](https://www.tailor.tech/blog/posts/what-is-an-erp-system-a-beginners-guide-to-erp) can scale accordingly, offering the flexibility required to adapt to changing business needs.

With advantages like these, it's easy to see how retail ERP software can transform a retailer's operations — leading to significant efficiency gains, higher customer satisfaction, and steadily consistent business growth. 

## How can I Find my Ideal Retail ERP Solution?
Finding the right ERP for your retail operation starts with a thorough assessment of your individual business needs. Every retailer is unique, so it’s important to identify the specific features and capabilities that will best support your business goals. How big is your organization? How complex is your supply chain? What kind of customer service do you strive to provide? These are the questions you should be asking before you start your search.

Equally important: the types of integration and customization options an ERP offers. A robust retail ERP solution should seamlessly integrate with your existing systems, whether it's your POS, e-commerce platform, or other third-party applications. The more customizable the ERP, the more you can tailor the software to fit your specific workflows and operational requirements.

There's a name for these highly customizable alternatives: [Headless ERP](https://medium.com/@tailor.tech/why-headless-breaking-down-the-benefits-of-tailors-headless-erp-solution-13def92e58fd)


>Headless architecture not only provides better customization, scalability, performance, and security but, more importantly, it allows for flexible integration with other systems via APIs. -- Yo Shibata, Tailor 

Just as basketball teams are assembled with players who have complementary skills working together to improve the team, headless ERP software allows disparate systems and applications to work together cohesively. Essentially, a headless ERP decouples the front-end presentation layer from all of the back-end processes, providing unprecedented flexibility and adaptability. Retailers can choose best-of-breed platforms for each function and seamlessly integrate them into a unified system, much like selecting complementary basketball players who excel in their respective roles.

[Tailor's headless ERP software](https://www.tailor.tech/) is a textbook example of this innovative new strategy. With Tailor's solution, you can integrate the best tools for your specific needs, creating a customized and efficient system that drives your business forward. 

Don’t settle for a one-size-fits-all approach — choose a solution that adapts to your unique requirements.
[Schedule your demo today.
](https://form.typeform.com/to/QONhVIuj?typeform-source=www.tailor.tech)






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Retail ERP streamlines inventory, sales, and customer management. Discover its benefits and how to choose the best solution for your business.

Retail ERP: What It Is & How to Choose the Right Solution | Tailor

Retail ERP: What It Is, Why It’s Important, and How to Choose the Right Solution

Welcome to a pivotal moment for users of [Tailor](https://www.tailor.tech/), the headless ERP platform that's been transforming business infrastructure one line of code at a time. Today, we're excited to unveil a suite of upgrades and new features designed to streamline your operations and enhance your [Tailor Platform experience](https://www.tailor.tech/platform). Dive into our latest release, which includes everything from a complete system re-architecture to innovative user interface enhancements.

## Manifest v2: A Foundation for the Future
The journey to Manifest v2 has been a transformative one. Over the last six months, our team has completely reengineered Tailor's infrastructure, aiming to deliver an ERP solution that is robust, scalable, and future-proof. Today, we are proud to present Manifest v2 to the world—a testament to our dedication and a cornerstone for the next generation of enterprise management. Esteemed organizations have already embraced this new release, leveraging its superior capabilities to drive efficiency and innovation. Key upgrades include:

![Animated Gif of Enhanced Tailor Command Line Tool (Tailor CTL):](https://proud-diamond-9f85b9c627.media.strapiapp.com/render1714443790091_31f0c66aa9.gif)

**Enhanced Tailor Command Line Tool ([Tailor CTL](https://docs.tailor.tech/tailorctl)):**

- We’ve reimagined the Tailor CTL to remove previous complexities such as the alpha subcommands. Now, everything you need is available in the public release with added interactive mode support, making the CLI more intuitive and accessible for all users.

Manifest v2 represents a monumental leap in ERP technology, providing a more stable, scalable, and user-friendly experience. With leading organizations already reaping the benefits, this update sets a new standard in the ERP landscape, ensuring businesses can operate more efficiently than ever. Additionally, [all documentation and templates](https://docs.tailor.tech/) within the Tailor platform have been updated to reflect the advancements in Manifest v2, ensuring that users have the most current tools and resources at their disposal.

## Expanding Global Footprint with Google Cloud
![A world map illustrating Google Cloud regions with marked cities, including Frankfurt and Sydney, as well as a future region in Taito. The Google Cloud logo is located in the bottom left corner.](https://proud-diamond-9f85b9c627.media.strapiapp.com/Frame_33871_b77f88af12.png)

Recognizing the need for localized services, we’ve expanded our regional offerings through Google Cloud Platform (GCP). Our platform’s new US Region, including specific zones in Japan and US West, is aimed at providing optimized services by allowing users to:

- **[<u>Choice of Deployment Locations</u>](https://cloud.google.com/about/locations):**
    - Users setting up a new workspace can now choose their desired deployment region on GCP, enabling them to store data locally. This capability is essential for adhering to regional and company-specific regulations, such as GDPR, thereby reducing latency and aligning with data governance standards.
- **Enhanced Regional Accessibility:**
    - Our strategic expansion addresses the global demand for Tailor services, ensuring users experience fast, reliable, and compliant ERP solutions hosted on a world-class infrastructure. By selecting their deployment region, users can benefit from lower latency, enhanced connection quality, and a superior user experience.

Our new regional platforms, powered by Google Cloud, mark a significant advancement in Tailor’s commitment to global accessibility and performance optimization. Leveraging GCP’s robust network ensures better compliance, lower latency, and services more tailored to meet the specific business needs of each region.

## Advanced Authentication Services 
Our latest enhancements to the Tailor Platform authentication services are designed to provide streamlined access control and improved user attribute management. These features are crucial for organizations managing diverse user bases and complex access levels.

### [<u>**SSO**</u>](https://docs.tailor.tech/guides/auth#authentication)

Our authentication service now supports Single Sign-On (SSO), providing a seamless and secure user experience. We offer support for widely-used protocols such as OpenID Connect (OIDC) and Security Assertion Markup Language (SAML), enhancing the robustness and versatility of our platform.

### [<u>**Secure and Flexible Logins with OpenID Connect (OIDC)**</u>](https://docs.tailor.tech/guides/auth#openidconnectoidcconfiguration)

OIDC extends the capabilities of SSO by adding identity verification and information transmission between the identity provider and the service provider. This protocol offers several benefits:

- **Enhanced Security:** OIDC uses JSON Web Tokens which provide a secure way to authenticate users and convey information.
- **Flexibility:** It supports both mobile and web applications, making it highly adaptable to different tech environments.
- **Identity Assurance:** Provides reliable information about the user, which is critical for applications that require a high degree of user trust.

### [<u>**Enterprise-Grade Security with Security Assertion Markup Language (SAML)**</u>](https://docs.tailor.tech/guides/auth#securityassertionmarkuplanguagesamlconfiguration)

SAML is often used in enterprise environments where integration with corporate directories is crucial. Key advantages include:

- **Improved Data Integrity and Security:** SAML exchanges data securely using digital signatures and encryption.
- **Interoperability:** Works well across different domains and platforms, facilitating integration with a variety of service providers.
- **Efficiency in Management:** Reduces the need for multiple user databases and simplifies the management of user permissions and roles across various systems.

### [<u>**Automate Processes with Powerful Machine Users**</u>](https://docs.tailor.tech/guides/auth#machineuser)

Machine Users are non-human users that automate processes and manage data, providing significant operational benefits:

- **Automation:** Automate repetitive tasks such as user provisioning, data entry, and system maintenance, reducing the need for manual intervention.
- **Consistency and Accuracy:** Minimize human error in data management and system operations.
- **Enhanced Security:** Operate under strict role-based access controls, ensuring that automated processes adhere to security protocols without compromising sensitive data.

These enhancements to our authentication services not only streamline operations but also bolster security and improve the overall user experience. By integrating SSO, OIDC, SAML, and machine user capabilities, the Tailor Platform ensures that your digital environment is both efficient and secure.

## Executor Service: Powering Automation (Private Preview)
Service, currently in private preview, is set to revolutionize how our platform interacts with external and internal systems. Highlights include:

- **Dynamic Event Handling:**
    - This service is engineered to manage diverse inputs, including events from within our platform application, scheduled tasks, and direct third-party API calls like webhooks. It serves as a flexible gateway to efficiently process and direct these inputs.
- **Flexible Output Capabilities:**
    - Whether it’s making an API request, triggering another pipeline within our platform, or performing direct queries to our Tailor DB via GraphQL, the Executor Service offers a powerful tool for enhancing interoperability and responsiveness within the enterprise ecosystem.

The Executor Service is set to become a cornerstone of the Tailor ecosystem, enhancing connectivity and automation across platforms. This under-construction feature highlights our commitment to creating seamless, integrated experiences for our users, facilitating better and faster decision-making processes.

## V2 Console Revolution: Streamlined and Secure
We're ecstatic to unveil the [latest iteration of the Tailor Console](https://console.tailor.tech/login). The V2 Console brings transformative enhancements that streamline workflows, bolster security, and enhance visibility across the platform, marking a significant leap from its predecessor. Our development team has worked meticulously to ensure these updates not only meet but exceed the modern demands of enterprise resource planning. Let’s dive into the specifics of what’s new and how these changes can significantly upgrade your ERP experience.

### **[<u>Simplified and Secure Login with Auth0</u>](https://docs.tailor.tech/tutorials/setup-auth/setup-identity-provider#tutorialsteps)**
![The screen shows a cursor hovering over a Sign in button on a Tailor login page. The cursor then clicks the button, causing a dropdown menu to appear. The cursor selects Accept invitation, moving to another screen.](https://proud-diamond-9f85b9c627.media.strapiapp.com/Clean_Shot_2024_04_26_at_16_46_27_866365e791.gif)
Gone are the days of cumbersome logins. With V2, Tailor introduces a new authentication system using Auth0, streamlining the login process. Users now enjoy a seamless sign-in experience without the repetitive need for email and password entries each time. Registration and authentication are more straightforward, enhancing both security and user accessibility.

### **[<u>Revamped Welcome Screen and Workspace Navigation</u>](https://cloud.google.com/about/locations)**
The initial interaction with the Tailor console sets the tone for user experience. In V2, we have redesigned the Welcome Screen to better organize and display information:
![The image shows a dark-themed dashboard interface with tabs labeled Applications, Services, and Settings. The Services tab is active, showing details for a project named star-wars.](https://proud-diamond-9f85b9c627.media.strapiapp.com/Clean_Shot_2024_04_26_at_16_49_56_5896c6c80e.gif)

**Workspaces and Applications Overview:** 

- Users are greeted with a dual-pane layout. The left pane lists all the workspaces, while the right pane displays applications, services, and settings linked to the selected workspace.

**Enhanced Service and Settings Management:** 

- It is now easier to manage attached users and secrets directly from the main dashboard, improving administration and oversight without the need to navigate away from the main screen.

### **[<u>Intuitive Application Interaction</u>](https://cloud.google.com/about/locations)**
![Dark-themed software interface displaying options for adding an episode, featuring sections labeled arguments and returns. Toggle menus show preScriptOp and postScriptOp as not defined.](https://proud-diamond-9f85b9c627.media.strapiapp.com/Clean_Shot_2024_04_26_at_16_52_02_11a2bb9d13.gif)

Interacting with specific applications in Tailor Console V2 has never been more intuitive:

**Improved UI and Usability:** 

- The interface retains a familiar look but introduces enhanced readability and parsing, making it easier to manage complex information.

**Direct Access to Nested Data and Schema Pagination:** 

- Users can now access nested data fields directly within applications, and with the new schema pagination, managing large datasets becomes less daunting.


### **Advanced Pipeline Code Management**
![A dark-themed user interface showing a hierarchical character data structure with fields for name, email, and species. It includes navigational options like overview and pipeline.](https://proud-diamond-9f85b9c627.media.strapiapp.com/Clean_Shot_2024_04_26_at_17_03_46_b00466d824.gif)

Tailor V2 brings significant improvements to how users interact with and manage code:

**Syntax Highlighting and Code Definition:** 

- Users can view deployed pipeline codes with syntax highlighting starting today.
- Syntax highlighting enhances code readability by color-coding elements like keywords and variables, which simplifies navigation and error detection. This clarity not only reduces debugging time but also boosts productivity by allowing programmers to quickly understand and modify code, streamlining the development process.

### **Upcoming Features and Developer Tools**
Looking ahead, Tailor is committed to achieving feature parity with tailorctl directly from Tailor Console, including full CRUD capabilities for workspaces and user management. Most notably, the upcoming Pipeline Resolver Debugger is poised to revolutionize how developers troubleshoot and optimize their applications:

**Interactive Debugging Tool:** 

- Pipeline Resolver Debugger will allow developers to execute pipeline resolvers and immediately view the outputs, dramatically reducing the iteration cycle during development.

The V2 Console update is more than just an upgrade—it’s a transformation tailored to empower developers and administrators with tools that foster efficiency, security, and clarity. Tailor  continues to innovate, ensuring that every feature we introduce moves us closer to a more connected and streamlined enterprise resource planning system.

## Tailor-Made for Your Success: A Look Ahead
We stand at a pivotal juncture in enterprise resource planning, where Tailor's latest enhancements set a new standard in the industry. With the launch of Manifest V2, the expansion of our global infrastructure, and the revolutionary updates to our V2 Console, we are not just keeping pace with technological advancements—we are leading the charge.

Our dedication to delivering a seamless and efficient ERP experience is evident in every update we've shared today. These advancements are more than just features; they are your new tools for success, meticulously crafted to ensure that your business remains resilient, agile, and ahead of the curve.

We encourage you to experience the full potential of these innovations by seeing them in action. Book a meeting with us to [explore the new features at Tailor firsthand](https://www.tailor.tech/). Discover how our customized solutions can transform your business operations, making them smoother, more intuitive, and exceptionally productive.

Step into [the future of ERP](https://www.tailor.tech/blog/posts/the-future-of-erp-systems:-enterprise-resource-planning-(erp)-trends-for-2024) with Tailor—because when it comes to your business needs, one size does not fit all. [Take a test drive](https://form.typeform.com/to/QONhVIuj?typeform-source=www.tailor.tech) of our new features and start your journey to smarter, faster, and more reliable enterprise resource management.


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Discover Tailor's latest ERP upgrades with Manifest V2, including advanced authentication services, regional Google Cloud deployment, and streamlined V2 Console features. Experience enhanced security, scalability, and efficiency. Explore how our headless ERP platform can transform your business infrastructure today. Visit Tailor to learn more and book a demo.

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