Businesses can use catalog management software to keep track of both the items they manufacture and the parts used to make their products. This type of software replaces manual paper logbooks and handwritten ledgers. Keeping track of your inventory simplifies bookkeeping because you can more accurately track your assets and credits. You can also find catalog management software that tracks products that sell the most so you can target your marketing efforts. Additionally, you need to stay on top of inventory control, how fast you use particular parts, how often you need to replenish parts and when to reorder. You can find catalog management software information for both types of applications. The key to such catalog management programs involves designing an internal numbering scheme to identify products sold and parts used. Once you design an intelligent numbering system, everything tracks in the electronic catalog by its number. Common fields allow sorting so the software can generate reports to help managers make intelligent business decisions.

Before purchasing catalog management software:

1. Determine how you will use catalog management software.

2. Define required features of catalog management software.

3. Compare catalog management software programs for the best option.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Decide what functions your catalog management software should perform

Compare catalog management software programs since some function only as inventory control, while others provide more extensive parts management. Once you explore the availability of catalog management software, you may decide to automate more of your supply chain functions besides just inventory.

I recommend: Apsiva tracks product lines but also includes a module that allows customized cataloging. This catalog management software provider offers real-time updating so your online catalogs remain current, a critical need in today's Internet-based businesses. CORESense sells a product that catalogs not only basic product lines but also customized products and products built from kits. This type of software also handles batch updating of catalogs contained in multiple platforms such as spreadsheets and web pages. PrimaSoft PC Software's Catalog Organizer Deluxe tracks both products and parts lists. The software also tracks construction or work projects and organizes scientific information.

Analyze catalog management software features available to you

Some catalog management software programs contain many features, while others have specific applications. Some programs have report writers and Internet interfaces. Others have a collection of tools, including catalog printing, project management, barcoding, data backup and password protection.

I recommend: Catapult software tracks your product line with unique identification and ability to accept image and sound files to describe products. Cameleon Spare Parts keeps track of your spare parts. This software links parts to products and tracks replacement schedules and pricing information.

Choose a catalog management software package most appropriate for your business

Your type of business, the size of your parts list or product line, and the size of your market helps determine which software program works best for you. Look beyond software features to additional benefits, such as free downloads, trial periods, customer service and automatic upgrades. Choose the program that is right for your business.

I recommend: CoLinear Systems provides catalog management software that handles your shipping tasks too, such as interfacing with UPS tracking. ESavvy Marketing offers catalog management software that directly interfaces with your online ecommerce shopping cart. National Mail Order Association provides software geared toward managing inventory and orders of mail order businesses. MultiChannel Merchant provides a catalog management software list that compares some of the top companies in this field.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Automating your catalog reduces labor costs. You save time because you can ship products faster, update your online catalog more quickly, and respond faster to demand by tracking which products are most popular. Take advantage of the time you save with catalog management software to streamline other areas of your business to create more profits.