If you are running a wholesale or distribution business and can’t keep up with customer orders or updating information for your team it may be time for you to invest in B2B e-commerce software. Besides deciding what type of software you need, you also must decide what type of IT investment you are ready for and that is where the cloud vs. on-premise software comes in.
No doubt you've heard plenty about the cloud and how it can be the right choice when you are looking for an affordable solution. You've also likely heard about on-premise options and why some find it preferable. Your choice may come down to personal preferences. Nevertheless, you'll want to weigh both options carefully to see what the pros and cons are.
Using On-Premise Software
Having on-premise order software frequently requires upfront capital expenditure, which isn't always affordable if you're on a budget. Nevertheless, the true plus of on-premise software is that you control everything.
The liability behind this is you're completely responsible for everything when something goes wrong. It could create severe downtime in getting repairs done in the process, which is the last thing you want when time is critical.
In your B2B company, running things around the clock without interruption is top priority, and you have to consider your element of risk.
Running your own server is already a major expense when you estimate the amount of maintenance involved. The same goes for when you want to expand as your business grows. It's a challenge to expand your server when you're in a hurry. IT technicians may take weeks to bring a level of scalability you need.
In the meantime, you'll have orders coming in from your buyers, and you may not be able to keep up with demand. This could even lead to confusing communications between you and your fulfillment center.
While these are major negatives, some bigger B2B businesses prefer more control of their server. Yet, when you see how the cloud can save your business life, you'll see what the better choice may be for smaller businesses.
Cloud-Based E-commerce Software
Using cloud based order management software takes the burden off you in being responsible for maintenance. The software provider takes care of everything and prevents any problems from occurring in the first place.
If you've had concerns about cloud security, keep in mind the cloud is only as good as its monitoring. Providers carefully monitor things 24/7 to block data thieves and other cyber threats.
For your customers, employees, and fulfillment center team, they'll appreciate this sense of security. When you use a customer portal to let buyers control their accounts, they want complete assurance their private data is safe.
In the realm of communication, the cloud opens up the ability to connect on a larger scale. Customers and your sales team can access your e-commerce site via the internet from any device, and from anywhere. This instant access allows business to continually run day or night with no disruptions.
With all your data in the cloud, you're even protected if a natural disaster wipes out your B2B business. Cloud-based software is all online, so you can still access it in an alternate location with Internet connection.
To make the best choice it depends on what you need to keep your B2B business running efficiently. If you are a small business that is looking for less liability with flexibility and remote access for customers, your sales team and fulfillment center then the cloud may be your best bet.
If you are a bigger company looking for more control and have the funds to invest in an upfront purchase then on-premise software could be for you.
You can find superior cloud-based B2B e-commerce software through Now Commerce. Visit our website to find out more about features and how it can streamline the way your business operates.
