The aftermarket industry has adopted several positive changes in the last decade, including introducing a mobile-based parts ordering system. Most OEMs and distributors struggle to keep up with the changing trends. Traditional methods of parts management have become obsolete and impractical in the current era of digitization.
As the supply chain is reshaping OEMs and distributors need to understand the importance of mobile-based parts ordering systems. Through this blog let us understand the benefits of mobile-based inventory management systems.
Aftermarket’s Shift Towards Digital Parts Ordering System
Traditional methods of parts ordering became inefficient with time and could not keep up with the changing market. It had major drawbacks such as a high possibility of errors, mismanagement, delays, and increased downtime. Mobile-based parts ordering systems in this context are a reliable and efficient method of making quick decisions despite geographical restrictions.
This software can easily integrate with existing CRM, IoT, and ERP systems that maintain the workflow. For technicians on the field, a mobile-based part ordering system is a convenient option to simplify the process of placing orders, automating the process and reducing downtime along with an increase in customer satisfaction.
Now that we understand the shift of parts ordering from traditional methods to digital software, let us understand the benefits of mobile-based parts ordering system.
Key Benefits of Mobile-Based Parts Ordering System
1. Enhanced Operational Agility
With the integration of mobile-based parts ordering systems, operational agility has significantly improved along with communication between suppliers, dealers, and OEMs. Traditional format of parts ordering and inventory management often led to delays and errors as information was buried deep in paperwork, and emails.
With the convenience of a mobile-based parts management system, orders can be modified or updated in real time. This gives OEMs and dealers the flexibility to make quick decisions, maintain the efficiency of the team, and manage delivery time. This flexibility allows technicians as well as OEMs to quickly address maintenance and repair.
2. Precise Demand Forecasting
Mobile-based parts ordering systems enable distributors and OEMs to have access to accurate and real-time information. These insights include customer preferences, ordering patterns, regional demands, inventory data, etc.
With real-time information access and accurate data of repeating patterns, dealerships can maintain accurate inventory without overstocking or understocking. The predictable capabilities of the parts ordering software enable proactive adjustments to avoid costly emergencies and meet every demand without delay.
3. Order Fulfillment with Automation
The automation feature of the parts ordering software has been an added advantage to OEMs and dealers as it has actively helped in reducing delays, eliminating manual intervention, and reducing human errors. Most dealers are spread far around the world and placing or manually selecting the locations as well as placing orders can be challenging and time-consuming.
Automation on the other hand has proven to be far more efficient than traditional methods allowing OEMs to channel their resources towards sectors that bring in more revenue and customer retention.
4. Effortless Integration Options
With the seamless integration options available with parts ordering software, OEMs and dealers can efficiently benefit from the predictive maintenance functions. Integration of parts ordering software with IoT and digital twin, allows the software to identify and detect any signs of wear-and-tear or possible malfunctions.
When the root cause of the problems is identified, the software automatically places an order for the same product. This proactive approach enables dealers and OEMs to avoid any last-minute orders and unplanned downtime of the equipment.
5. Centralized Information Access
Mobile-based parts ordering systems act as a centralized information center that enables OEMs and distributors to maintain up-to-date information. This enables different departments to easily collaborate and monitor or track inventory accurately. Performance outcomes can be easily measured through detailed analysis which further allows businesses to make informed decisions through data-driven improvements across operations.
Impact of Mobile-Based Ordering on Supply Chain
1. Centralized Communication System Between OEMs And Dealers
Having an efficient communication channel is a necessity to foster the right relationship between OEMs, dealers, and suppliers. This not only helps in staying transparent but also ensures that the information shared across the platform includes stock levels, order statuses, and different delivery statuses.
Unlike traditional methods, most of the communication through this channel is automated and requires little to no human intervention unless needed. This reduces the chances of errors, allows different suppliers and distributors to stay ahead of the demand patterns, and minimizes downtime effectively.
2. Data-Accessibility and Reporting
Mobile apps are not only for ordering but also make powerful tools for collecting data and analyzing, where information on ordering patterns, demand in regions, and stock turnover rates can be traced. This information can now be used to create complex reports that will allow OEMs and distributors to make informed decisions regarding what to expect in terms of demand and stock their inventories accordingly.
These insights can then be helpful for companies to anticipate trends, make proactive adjustments to their stock levels, and prevent situations of stockouts or overstocking. In this regard, data-driven insights help companies better understand their customer needs, thereby making necessary optimizations in pricing strategies, refining product offerings, and improving service quality at each step of the supply chain.
3. Data Analytics and KPIs
OEMs and distributors can work at perfecting their supply chains with data analytics-based systems, through ongoing Key Performance Indicators such as order accuracy, fulfillment rate, and delivery time. Analytics provides visibility for OEMs and distributors during inefficiencies but, at the same time, allows them to pinpoint improvements and track every single real-time impact after any adjustment.
Constant optimization, ensuring efficiency in cost savings while at the same time decreasing lead times and making parts available consistently throughout the supply chain. Data analytics has allowed predictive maintenance in operations so that OEMs would pre-order parts before any failures of the equipment. it maintains the system’s operational uptime, in addition to improving overall efficiency along the supply chain.
Browse Related Blogs:
https://aftermarketsoftware.hashnode.dev/the-hidden-costs-of-poor-warranty-management-for-oems
https://indibloghub.com/post/6-strategies-for-oems-to-reduce-warranty-costs
In Conclusion
Mobile-based parts ordering systems have become the bedrock of modern supply chain management for OEMs and distributors. They replace error-prone, old processes with streamlined, data-driven approaches that improve communication, order accuracy, and fulfillment.
Mobile platforms can integrate with CRM, ERP, and IoT technologies and offer predictive maintenance capabilities, as well as provide real-time visibility into inventory levels and demand patterns.
This digital shift empowers businesses to respond quickly to market changes, reduce operational bottlenecks, and better serve customers all while achieving greater efficiency, minimized downtime, and optimized inventory across the supply chain.
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