Inventory Management Software vs Warehouse Management Software – What’s Right for my Company
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Most warehouse and third-party logistics operators are familiar with inventory management software when it comes to supply chain management best practices. However, many don’t realize that there is a difference between inventory management software and warehouse management software whether you are using it for distribution, manufacturing, or retail businesses.
While both types of systems serve similar purposes, they have different functions and features. In this blog post, we’ll explore the differences between warehouse management and inventory management system software to help you decide which system is right for your business.
How Warehouse Management and Inventory Management Systems Differ
warehouse inventory management guide systems help warehouses, manufacturers, and 3PLs count and track inventory levels on finished goods or raw materials, ensuring that items are properly chosen and removed from stock, rotated accordingly, and located in proper storage areas.
Warehouse management systems coordinate workflows for the entire warehouse relating to inventory, order fill, labor, and operational processes – in effect pulling inventory management features under its wing for managing stock.
The Distinction Between Warehouse Management and Inventory Management Software
Inventory Management Software
The primary purpose of inventory management system (IMS) software is to keep track of what products you have in stock. This type of software is designed to provide accurate real-time data on the inventory levels in your warehouse, their location, and when they need to be reordered. It also allows you to quickly locate items in your warehouse when customers make an order.
When purchasing for your warehouse inventory management software, look for the following features:
Once again, warehouse inventory management software is a good starting point for small businesses, midsize businesses, or larger businesses that do not currently use a software system for inventory control in their warehouse processes.
On the other hand, warehouse management system (WMS) software can help 3PLs, distributors, and similar companies manage their day-to-day operations with more robust features than those found in inventory management software.
Warehouse management software is flexible and can be used by businesses of any size for their inventory management and warehouse management supply chain needs. It often is a much-needed upgrade from inventory management software that growing companies need for their inventory, logistics, and warehouse processes.
The best WMS software for inventory management and warehouse management provides the following features and more!
Warehouse management system applications make day-to-day business easier by streamlining warehouse processes, better inventory management, and meeting shipping demands.
Inventory Management vs Warehouse Management: How Do I Choose Between the Two?
The decision to choose between inventory management and warehouse management software should be based on the size of your business and the scale of your operations.
If you operate a small business warehouse with limited resources, inventory management software is a great option. It’s more affordable than warehouse management software and will provide the features you need for managing stock, generating reports, and optimizing processes within your warehouse.
Businesses that benefit the most from instituting an inventory management system are those that had no system, an outdated system, ineffective processes, or manage a low number of SKUs with a high turnover rate, whether large or small.
Meanwhile, companies that operate multiple warehouses or require highly advanced features such as supplier and customer management, multi-warehouse inventory tracking, shipment tracking, RF technology support, and more should opt for warehouse management software. This will provide them with the robust tools they need to optimize their operations and streamline their supply chain.
Companies that are growing and/or require more inventory control and operational features than simple inventory management systems can provide benefit the most from the expanded processes that warehouse management systems provide.
Ultimately, the decision between inventory management and warehouse management software should be made based on the size of your business and the complexity of your operations. Once you’ve determined which type of software is best for your warehouse, you can start researching specific products and features to find the best solution for your unique needs.
With the right inventory management or warehouse management software, you can improve efficiency and accuracy in your warehouse operations. Don’t just make your decision based on price. By choosing the right solution for your business, you can save time and money while improving customer satisfaction.
The Cadre Cadence WMS Software Difference
As an industry leader and award winner in supply chain warehouse management technology, Cadre Technologies takes warehouse management system application development and improvement seriously. Our customer industries include food and beverage, consumer goods, and automotive, just to name a few.
Our team of experts is here to help you choose the best plan for your 3PL, distribution center, manufacturing plant, retail business, or eCommerce operation. We take you from start to finish with professional consulting, pain-free implementation, training, and support with the best inventory management software on the market today.
To learn more about Cadre Technologies, Cadence WMS, or how we can take your business to the next level, contact us today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I upgrade from inventory management software to warehouse management software later?
Yes, you can upgrade from inventory management software to warehouse management software as your business grows. Many companies start with basic inventory management systems and transition to more robust WMS solutions when they need advanced features like multi-warehouse tracking, RF technology support, or complex workflow coordination. The upgrade process typically involves data migration and staff training.
How much does warehouse management software typically cost compared to inventory management software?
Warehouse management software generally costs significantly more than inventory management software due to its advanced features and capabilities. While inventory management systems are budget-friendly for small businesses, WMS solutions require larger investments but provide greater ROI through improved efficiency, reduced errors, and streamlined operations across multiple warehouses and complex supply chains.
What happens if I choose the wrong type of software for my business?
Choosing the wrong software can lead to wasted resources, operational inefficiencies, and frustrated staff. If you select overly complex WMS for simple operations, you’ll pay for unused features. Conversely, choosing basic inventory management for complex operations can create bottlenecks and limit growth. However, most software can be changed or upgraded as business needs evolve.
Do I need technical expertise to implement inventory or warehouse management software?
Basic inventory management software typically requires minimal technical expertise and can often be implemented with vendor support and staff training. Warehouse management systems usually require more technical knowledge and professional implementation services due to their complexity, integration requirements, and customization needs. Many vendors provide consulting, training, and ongoing support throughout the process.
How long does it take to see results after implementing these software systems?
Results vary depending on system complexity and business size. Inventory management software typically shows improvements within weeks through better stock visibility and reduced manual errors. Warehouse management systems may take several months to fully optimize due to workflow changes and staff adaptation, but often deliver significant efficiency gains and cost savings once properly implemented and adopted.
