What Do Shoes and Software Have in Common?

When I was in college, buying shoes was a pretty simple process. I always bought a size 7 shoe – in heels, flats, or sandals. Even if the fit was a little snug or a little loose, I stuck with my size 7s. Today, I can wear any size shoe from size 6 to 7 ½, depending on the brand and style. Maybe I’m just pickier than I used to be, or maybe sizing isn’t as standardized as it was when I was in college. Regardless, I realize that one size does not fit all.

The same can be said about software. There are many solutions that promise to solve all of our business issues, but a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work for companies with industry-specific needs and challenges. In the trading industry, for example, companies must manage multiple geographies, business units, ledgers, and currencies; offer value-added services, and comply with constantly changing requirements if they want to increase profits and keep customers happy. Software that doesn’t address these challenges isn’t going to be a good fit for trading companies, no matter how hard they try.

Finding the right software to fit trading industry needs

According to an information sheet from SAP, solutions designed specifically for the trading industry can help companies improve trading, inventory, and financial processes, so they can reduce costs, enhance customer service, and improve compliance. By choosing software that truly addresses their needs, trading companies can:

• Serve customers better by enabling business users to access accurate, up-to-the-minute customer data and analytics
• Gain a unified view of the business by integrating financial, supply chain, and inventory management
• Minimize billing disputes, costs, and errors by gaining real-time visibility into transactional data
• Improve compliance and operational efficiency by automating procurement and financial processes

Realizing a fast ROI with rapid-deployment solutions

By combining preconfigured software and implementation services, rapid-deployment solutions, like the SAP ERP for Trading rapid-deployment solution powered by SAP HANA, can save companies valuable time and money. Further, by working with a proven implementation partner, like SAP Consulting, companies can reduce implementation risks with hardware, hosting, and financing options aligned with their on-premise or cloud deployment.

Looking for a rapid-deployment solution for your trading company?

For more insights on the value of selecting an industry-specific solution for trading companies that can be implemented quickly and affordably, read “Optimize and Streamline Trading, Inventory, and Financial Activities.”