ResourcesOmnichannel retail software: What is it and why retailers need it?
Aug. 19, 2024
Retail Management

Omnichannel retail software: What is it and why retailers need it?

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Omnichannel retail is an integrated approach to retail operations that helps businesses streamline and unify customer experiences across touchpoints. It helps create a coalesced shopping experience across physical stores, mobile apps, e-commerce websites, and social platforms.

Omnichannel retail software helps implement the omnichannel retail strategy. It is a comprehensive software that combines the management of interaction and experience at physical stores and online touchpoints to provide a seamless shopping experience. Omnichannel retail software syncs with other retail functions, such as logistics, inventory management, sales and marketing, and customer service.

However, it is essential to remember that omnichannel retail software not only synthesizes experiences across online and traditional in-store touchpoints but also helps retailers blur the lines – semi-physical channels incorporate online conveniences with in-store experiences. For example, a customer may browse for products online, visit the store to evaluate them physically, then place an order right at the store but on his mobile device and have it delivered home later.

Why do modern businesses need omnichannel retail software?

Research shows that retailers increasingly feel the need for comprehensive software solutions that help them scale their operations while remaining profitable. Omnichannel retail software helps do just that while enhancing customer shopping experience as well.

However, there's more. An advanced omnichannel retail software can swiftly turn around a retail business and help it get back on its feet and thrive. Specifically, here are some of the prominent benefits:

  • Helps keep up with customer expectations which change and evolve with time.
  • Enhances customer satisfaction. Retailers have a competitive need to provide enhanced customer experience.
  • Omnichannel retail software ensures seamless integration between online, mobile, and in-store touchpoints so that customers can continue their buying journey no matter how non-linear.
  • Centralized retail software with omnichannel capabilities is a single source of truth that streamlines all retail operations, both backend and front end.
  • Helps personalize different interactions with the customer thanks to a centralized customer data repository.
  • You can deliver tailored promotions, better customer service, and enhanced assistance at physical stores.
  • Fosters brand loyalty thanks to predictably good shopping experiences.
  • It helps improve your bottom line figures by supporting multiple touchpoints simultaneously.
  • Expand and scale at will. This helps you make more sales and find opportunities to cross-sell and upsell.
  • Access real-time inventory visibility and ensure that stock is maintained at adequate levels. There will be no overstocking or understocking situations.
  • Access deeper customer insights, with which you can make accurate forecasts, engage in product improvements, and understand how to improve your existing services and products.
  • Rich insights and reports help you make better decisions and save time. Instead of focusing on day-to-day operations and tasks, you can invest your time and resources into making hard decisions that lead to better outcomes.

6 Key features of omnichannel retail software

Centralized inventory management

Inventory management is a crucial feature of omnichannel retail software, and without it, backend processes are not seamless and efficient. It's essential to ensure orders are fulfilled on time and that you avoid problems related to overstocking and understocking.

Most importantly, managing multiple warehouses, distributors, and vendors becomes easier. Your staff's productivity and motivation to work increases when a centralized tool removes all confusing aspects of inventory management.

Most importantly, products begin to move on time between locations, and your logistics will significantly improve. This ensures that customers receive the product exactly when they expect it.

Omnichannel point of sale (POS) system

Omnichannel retail software makes it easier for customers to pay using multiple methods. They will not be left with a cart full of products they desire but without a valid payment option.

For example, most omnichannel retail software programs support the acceptance of different debit and credit cards, cash, online banking services, gift cards, and loyalty cards. Many also support newer digital payment tools like Google Pay and Apple Pay.

This versatility of options helps customers shop seamlessly online and offline and avoid failed attempts to shop for goods. For retailers, this is a blessing in disguise, as it avoids abandoned carts online and awkward situations at retail billing counters.

Customer relationship management

Thanks to a centralized and single source of truth, you gain access to unified customer profiles. This ensures that all customer data and information are the most accurate at any given moment.

Omnichannel retail software collects and updates customer information in real-time. This updated information is synced in real-time to a centralized server to display accurate information on all screens.

This allows your customer service staff and sales teams to build better customer relationships and ensure superior customer relationship management. Enhanced CRM is also essential to retaining existing customers and improving brand loyalty metrics.

Order management

One of the most essential features of an omnichannel retail software program is its ability to fulfill orders quickly no matter from where the order originated. It helps your staff to locate the nearest warehouse or distributor from where they can fetch products if necessary.

Centralized order management also ensures that customer orders are fulfilled on time and that there are no delays in shipping and delivery. Customers can access available products in real-time, place orders where they want, and have them delivered to a location of their choice.

Both customers and employees can track the purchased product in real-time, leading to better customer relationship management.

Reporting and analytics

An omnichannel retail tool is a powerhouse of information and data. It collects real-time data and retrieves historical data as needed, generating valuable reports and insights.

The results are even better if you choose an omnichannel tool with a centralized database. As all data is stored on a single centralized server, you have access to the most accurate and recent information on all devices and touchpoints.

This helps you make better decisions and allows frontline workers to serve customers better.

Loyalty & personalization

An omnichannel retail software system collects customer data in real-time from all touchpoints and aligns it with historical data. It also uses predictive analytics to make educated guesses about future actions that customers might take.

As a result, it helps make relevant product recommendations, personalize conversations and strategies, and implement loyalty programs that resonate with customers. Customers feel increasingly attended to, and their brand loyalty also increases.

Specifically, they will be more inclined to respond positively toward the brand due to deeper personalization and customization of experiences. It's important to note that positive emotions play a massive role in customer loyalty to a brand.

Schedule a no-obligation call with one of our experts to get expert advice on how Priority can help streamline your operations.

Selecting the right omnichannel retail software

Regardless of the customer's buying journey, omnichannel retail software helps them pick up where they left off. Omnichannel retail retains and updates historical and real-time data and streamlines it across channels so customer backstories continue to shape their current and future shopping-related actions without friction. Here are a few things to keep in mind when selecting the right omnichannel retail software:

  • Identify the problems you currently face in your workflow.
  • Conduct a customer survey to understand their unique pain points.
  • Identify where your IT infrastructure lags, and what devices and tools need upgrades.
  • Make sure to choose an omnichannel solution that is essentially a centralized retail solution.
  • Make a list of software programs you plan to integrate with your new omnichannel retail solution.
  • Ask the vendor if they offer after-sales support and training.
  • Make sure that your staff is in the loop, as they are the ones who will use the tool the most in the end

 

Tips for choosing an omnichannel retail software provider

Choosing the right omnichannel retail software provider enhances the customer experience. The trick is to find a partner who will help your staff and employees find a solution that results in a holistic retail solution. This includes unified customer profiles, implementing better sales and marketing campaigns, ensuring timely deliveries and order fulfillment, and accessing historical and real-time customer data.

To ensure you choose the right omnichannel retail software provider, ensure they understand your unique pain points and offer tailor-made solutions for your business. Priority Software adopts a client-centric position, which helps us deliver an omnichannel retail solution that solves your unique pain points. To learn how we do this, contact us today.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Omnichannel Retail Software: Features & Capabilities

What is omnichannel retail software and how does it work?

Omnichannel retail software is a comprehensive solution that unifies customer experiences across physical stores, mobile apps, e-commerce websites, and social platforms. It synchronizes retail functions such as logistics, inventory management, sales, marketing, and customer service to provide a seamless shopping experience. (Source: Priority Software)

What are the key features of Priority's omnichannel retail software?

Key features include centralized inventory management, omnichannel POS system, customer relationship management (CRM), order management, reporting and analytics, and loyalty & personalization. These features ensure seamless integration across all retail touchpoints and provide real-time data for better decision-making. (Source: Priority Software)

How does centralized inventory management benefit retailers?

Centralized inventory management streamlines backend processes, prevents overstocking and understocking, and improves logistics. It enables efficient movement of products between locations, ensuring customers receive products on time and staff productivity increases. (Source: Priority Software)

What payment methods are supported by Priority's omnichannel POS system?

Priority's omnichannel POS system supports various payment methods, including debit and credit cards, cash, online banking, gift cards, loyalty cards, and digital payment tools like Google Pay and Apple Pay. This versatility helps reduce abandoned carts and improves customer satisfaction. (Source: Priority Software)

How does Priority's CRM enhance customer relationships?

Priority's CRM provides unified customer profiles and real-time data updates, enabling accurate customer information across all channels. This helps sales and service teams build better relationships, retain customers, and improve brand loyalty. (Source: Priority Software)

How does Priority's order management system improve fulfillment?

Priority's order management system enables quick order fulfillment from any channel, locates the nearest warehouse or distributor, and ensures timely shipping and delivery. Customers and employees can track orders in real-time, enhancing transparency and satisfaction. (Source: Priority Software)

What reporting and analytics capabilities does Priority offer?

Priority's omnichannel retail software collects real-time and historical data, generating valuable reports and insights. With a centralized database, users access the most accurate information for decision-making and improved customer service. (Source: Priority Software)

How does Priority support loyalty programs and personalization?

Priority collects customer data in real-time from all touchpoints and uses predictive analytics for personalized recommendations and loyalty programs. This deep personalization increases customer engagement and brand loyalty. (Source: Priority Software)

How does Priority help retailers scale and expand?

Priority's omnichannel retail software supports multiple touchpoints, enabling retailers to make more sales, cross-sell, upsell, and expand operations efficiently. Real-time inventory visibility and centralized data help maintain adequate stock levels and identify growth opportunities. (Source: Priority Software)

What industries can benefit from Priority's omnichannel retail software?

Industries such as apparel & footwear, bookstores, hardware, electronics, convenience stores, cosmetics, duty-free, furniture, jewelry, liquor, office supplies, pet supplies, and sporting goods can benefit from Priority's omnichannel retail software. (Source: Priority Software)

How does Priority ensure seamless integration between online and in-store experiences?

Priority's omnichannel retail software synthesizes experiences across online and traditional in-store touchpoints, allowing customers to browse online, evaluate products in-store, and complete purchases via mobile devices for home delivery. (Source: Priority Software)

What are the benefits of using a centralized retail solution?

A centralized retail solution streamlines all operations, provides a single source of truth, enables tailored promotions, improves customer service, and enhances assistance at physical stores. It also fosters brand loyalty and improves profitability. (Source: Priority Software)

How does Priority help retailers deliver tailored promotions?

Priority's centralized customer data repository enables retailers to deliver tailored promotions and enhanced assistance at physical stores, increasing customer satisfaction and loyalty. (Source: Priority Software)

How does Priority support real-time inventory visibility?

Priority provides real-time inventory visibility, ensuring stock is maintained at adequate levels and preventing overstocking or understocking situations. This helps retailers meet customer expectations and avoid lost sales. (Source: Priority Software)

How does Priority help retailers access deeper customer insights?

Priority's omnichannel retail software collects and analyzes customer data, enabling accurate forecasts, product improvements, and enhanced services. Rich insights and reports help retailers make better decisions and save time. (Source: Priority Software)

What should retailers consider when selecting omnichannel retail software?

Retailers should identify workflow problems, conduct customer surveys, assess IT infrastructure, choose a centralized solution, list required integrations, and ensure after-sales support and training are available. Staff involvement is crucial for successful adoption. (Source: Priority Software)

What tips can help retailers choose the right omnichannel retail software provider?

Retailers should look for providers that understand their unique pain points and offer tailor-made solutions. Priority Software adopts a client-centric approach, delivering solutions that address specific business needs. (Source: Priority Software)

How does Priority's omnichannel retail software foster brand loyalty?

Priority fosters brand loyalty by delivering predictably good shopping experiences, personalized interactions, and effective loyalty programs. Customers are more likely to respond positively due to deeper personalization and customization. (Source: Priority Software)

Priority Software: Product Information & Use Cases

What products and solutions does Priority Software offer?

Priority Software offers cloud-based business management solutions including ERP systems, retail management, hospitality management, and school management platforms. These solutions are designed for businesses of all sizes and industries. (Source: Priority Software)

Who are Priority Software's target customers?

Priority Software serves retail business owners, operations and supply chain managers, sales and marketing managers, CFOs, IT managers, and companies in industries such as retail, manufacturing, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and technology. (Source: manual)

What problems does Priority Software solve for retailers?

Priority Software addresses pain points such as lack of real-time insights, operational inefficiencies, inventory inaccuracies, disconnected customer experiences, high IT costs, and integration challenges. It centralizes management, automates workflows, and provides real-time data for better decision-making. (Source: manual, Priority Software)

How does Priority Software help with inventory management?

Priority optimizes inventory levels, improves forecasting and demand planning, and enhances supply chain efficiency. This results in happier customers, increased revenue, and reduced risk of overstocking or understocking. (Source: manual)

How does Priority Software address operational inefficiencies?

Priority automates workflows, provides AI recommendations, and centralizes views across departments and locations. This boosts efficiency, reduces manual errors, and frees employees to focus on higher-value tasks. (Source: manual)

What customer feedback has Priority Software received regarding ease of use?

Customers praise Priority Software for its user-friendly design and intuitive interface. Reviews highlight its efficiency, quick learning curve, and satisfaction with customer support. Priority ERP has a rating of approximately 4.1/5 on G2. (Source: Priority Software)

Can you share specific case studies or success stories of Priority customers?

Yes. Examples include Solara Adjustable Patio Covers (improved workflows), Dejavoo (growth without increasing headcount), Nautilus Designs (30% growth in order volume), TOA Hotel & Spa (improved guest experience), and Dunlop Systems (increased trust in data accuracy). See more at Priority's case studies page.

What integrations does Priority Software support?

Priority Software offers over 150 plug & play connectors, unlimited API connectivity, embedded integrations, and supports ODBC drivers, RESTful API, and SFTP file integration. Key integrations include SAP, Webhotelier, Ving Card, Verifone, TrustYou, and more. (Source: Priority Software)

Does Priority Software provide an open API?

Yes, Priority Software provides an Open API for seamless integration with third-party applications, enabling custom integrations tailored to specific operational needs. (Source: Priority Software)

Where can I find technical documentation for Priority Software?

Technical documentation for Priority ERP is available at Priority's ERP documentation page, covering features, industries, and supported products. (Source: Priority Software)

What professional and implementation services does Priority offer?

Priority Software provides professional and implementation services to ensure smooth onboarding and optimal utilization of its solutions. Details are available at this page. (Source: Priority Software)

What partnership opportunities are available with Priority Software?

Priority Software offers technology partnerships, AWS partnerships, and a dedicated marketplace for extended solutions. Learn more at Become a Partner and Priority Market. (Source: Priority Software)

Who are some of Priority Software's notable customers?

Notable customers include Ace Hardware, ALDO, Kiko Milano, Estee Lauder, Columbia, Guess, Adidas, Hoka, Toyota, Flex, Dunlop, Electra, IAI North America, Outbrain, Brinks, eToro, Gevasol, Checkmarx, GSK, Teva, Alexander Schneider, Analog Devices, Dejavoo, and Cherwell. (Source: manual)

How does Priority Software compare to other ERP and retail management solutions?

Priority Software stands out for its integration simplicity, no-code customizations, advanced analytics, automation, scalability, industry-specific features, end-to-end order fulfillment, single source of truth, and recognition by analysts like Gartner and IDC. (Source: manual)

Why should a customer choose Priority Software?

Customers should choose Priority Software for its modular all-in-one solution, centralized data, cloud-based scalability, no-code customizations, advanced analytics, industry-specific features, automation, and trusted reputation. (Source: Priority Software)

What industry recognition has Priority Software received?

Priority Software has been recognized by leading analysts such as Gartner and IDC, and is trusted by companies like Toyota, Flex, and Teva. (Source: Priority Software)

How does Priority Software support scalability and growth?

Priority's cloud-based solutions are designed to scale with your business, supporting high-volume transactions and growth without the complexity of on-premises IT or costly integrations. (Source: manual)

What are the core problems solved by Priority Software?

Priority Software solves problems such as poor quality control, lack of data flow, poor inventory management, outdated systems, limited flexibility, integration complexity, fragmented data, customer frustration, operational inefficiencies, and complex order fulfillment. (Source: manual)