Like any project, a Trader-to-Microsoft Dynamics GP integration for your online store is bound to hit some roadblocks along the way. But if implemented properly, these systems can help you to succeed in the competitive world of e-commerce.
by Joe McLeod, M.D. Olympic Software
Most online store owners emphasize front-end related features and functionality. For example:
- What will the look and feel of the store be?
- Will my e-commerce store be user friendly from access to the shopping cart to ease of navigation?
- How long will it take to get a fully functional e-commerce store up and running?
- Will it impact my sales and existing customer base?
- What would be the best platform to setup my e-commerce operation on?
- What would be the cost of implementing this project?
Functions related to your online store like product information management, inventory information management, orders, invoices, and customer information management are vital for smooth operations. A Trader and Dynamics GP integration project must support all of these functions.
1. Seamless inventory management
Interchange of inventory information between Trader and Dynamics GP is vital for customer experience. Given that this is a back-end operation, most online stores understate its importance and hence do not give it sufficient attention.
Store owners must make sure the workflow for the inventory information is comprehensive. This ensures the system supports any and every use case the store needs
2. Building an omni-channel experience
A Trader to Dynamics GP integration must support your omni-channel strategy. Given increasing mobile penetration, it is important to build a sustainable omni-channel store. A seamless experience across devices improves user experience, and hence your customers’ brand loyalty. Various aspects of integration aid in this experience.
Your planning must include these data points in your integration framework.
3. Better allocation of your resources
Most online store owners do not understand the role that integration plays in consolidating information from across their different systems. A Trader-Dynamics GP integration helps you to properly assess and allocate resources efficiently, while the automation the system provides, helps you in freeing up your team's time, which would otherwise be spent on mundane tasks like syncing customer information, product information or invoices.
The result of allocating time properly is more empowered employees and improved operational efficiency, as well as stronger branding and sales.
4. Ensure scalability
The e-commerce market is currently fiercely competitive, which makes adding new channels such as Amazon, eBay, Walmart, Alibaba, Magento, Shopify and Etsy vital. Most e-commerce players leverage these online marketplaces to expand their horizons. However, many growing companies are indecisive when it comes to investing in one of these platforms. This creates problems, because in the absence of a platform integration Trader cannot manage information updates.
On the other hand, with the proper setup, integration between your e-commerce store and the third-party marketplaces you sell on can be automated, with all the information flowing into your ERP. This includes the inventory at hand and the orders placed, regardless of the platform.
