The line separating e-commerce from offline retail have blurred rapidly in recent times. Consequently, there is a need for unified software solutions to manage back-end business processes and unify front-end interfaces, regardless of where the communication occurs.
Enter headless commerce, an Omnichannel architecture where the front-end or the “head” is decoupled from the back-end commerce functionality, so it can be quickly and easily updated or edited without interfering with the front-end. Simply put, headless commerce is a single holistic and agile solution that connects all channels to one engine via a standard interface, creating seamless back-end processes for the vendor and an enhanced user experience for the customer.
An ERP-based headless retail management suite can be tailored to support your niche and address your specific business requirements. Specific functions of a headless retail management suit include:
- Run back-end operations efficiently while deftly managing a variety of front-end customer-facing processes
- Assists in brand differentiation and identity enhancement
- Improves customer experience both online and in-store thanks to multi-channel order management
- Helps implement sales and marketing campaigns, both traditional and digital
- Generates valuable demand forecasts and other reports
If that’s not enough, here are Five more reasons to consider a customized, ERP based omnichannel, commerce management system instead of traditional ERP solutions:
1. Leaner and more efficient than traditional ERP
Full-fledged ERP systems tend to be expensive and are equipped with modules that retailers may not require. For instance, manufacturing-oriented modules are irrelevant to a retail store that procures finished goods from vendors and sells them to end-users.
On the other hand, a tailored retail management solution is designed to address the custom requirements of retailers from various markets, enhancing access to a unified flow of data between stakeholders, from staff and suppliers to warehouses and end customers, in a single interface. As a result, retailers can easily manage their vendors, build better relationships with their customers, and ensure smooth delivery.
2. One system to replace them all!
ERP-based, omnichannel commerce management systems reign supreme with unified business logic, a single database, a standard open interface, flexible and hostable solution, unified control and monitoring, centralized security, and privacy protection in a single location.
The headless commerce architecture Seamlessly connects various operational commerce channels to a central database. From physical stores, pre-built e-commerce sites and e-com platform integrations (such as Magento or Shopify) to CRM providers and marketing automation solutions. The results? It makes retailers happy, in droves, by linking all customer interactions via all channels, such as customer loyalty programs, gift cards, optimization of dynamic pricing, personalized promotions, recommendations, and lots more.
3. Custom-developed for niche industries
Many businesses use multiple enterprise software solutions because no single product addresses their unique requirements. A tailored, ERP-based, headless commerce platform handles back-end processes specific to niche businesses and helps retailers efficiently manage customer-facing operations.
Features such as gift card management, unified printing server for physical invoicing, and comprehensive loyalty management tools can be tailored to suit the needs of specific industries, such as hospitality, electronics, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, food and grocery, travel, and fashion.
4. Make accurate forecasts and plan in advance
Customers often seek immediate gratification, and when their needs aren’t met, they often reach out to the competition. Using an ERP based commerce platform, retailers can easily track past trends and multiple data sources to make accurate demand forecasts and ensure that the inventory is always well-stocked and orders are processed without any hurdles. Learn more about the top retail technology trends in 2023.
5. Happier and more satisfied customers
Customers are looking for exceptional service and unbeatable prices from trustworthy retailers. A positive customer experience is a crucial factor for brand loyalty. And without loyal customers, it’s difficult for businesses to grow.
Many sellers claim technology has made it easier for businesses to compete. But many retailers aren’t integrating with digital technology as much as they should.
Retail ERP helps collect, manage, and deliver real-time information on demand. For instance, retrieve a customer’s past order while responding to their social media DM. This data also helps you plan and run tailor-made campaigns for specific segments of your customer base.
Omnichannel integration is all about meeting and engaging with shoppers on their terms. Businesses need to enhance shopping options and start selling everywhere, in stores, online, social media, and marketplaces.
An ERP based, omnichannel commerce management system is a necessity for retailers.
A tailored retail ERP is more efficient than generic ERP solutions for several reasons. It eliminates unnecessary modules and adds tools specific to your niche business. It prioritizes e-commerce-related processes such as order management, shipping, returns management, and online customer service while customizing these modules to your specific industry.
Processes need to be automated to simplify managing the business and overcome common challenges in the retail industry, such as orders, shipping, and returns management. Choosing a suitable omni channel retail EPR commerce management system can help take your brand to greater heights. Tasks can be automated, reducing overhead costs and saving time.
Retailers need to focus on streamlining internal communications. An ERP system facilitates real-time collaboration, eliminates inefficiencies and improves customer relations. By centralizing all business operations, retailers can generate comprehensive reports from each division to ensure the efficient operation of the entire business.
More importantly, retailers need to expand their options and find ways to integrate the online and offline connected journey experience seamlessly. A customized, ERP based, omnichannel commerce management system can help brands reach shoppers, anywhere, anytime, on any device.
