It is important to review changes in inventory levels and profitability of different products. This is the best time for businesses to determine if they should stop selling low-profit items and focus more energy on selling higher profit products, or even add new products. A company might be known as a retailer of above-ground pools, spas, and chemicals, but they could consider offering patio and deck furniture, barbecues, fireplaces, gas stove inserts, and installations. Reviewing the inventory reporting options within the business software and looking for trends might justify offering new products that line up with the current offering or could smooth out the seasonality of the business. Specialty retailers have tight control of their current inventory, but they can easily consider expanding into other products and services without fear.
Re-evaluating business software
The third and perhaps most important task to undertake during the slower season is re-evaluating business software. In today’s pool and spa industry, most retailers, builders, and service professionals are using some type of software to run their business. Now is the time for managers and staff to determine whether their current software systems are providing the capabilities needed to run the most profitable, efficient business.
Implementing new software may help reduce or eliminate stressors currently inhibiting business development or the ability to handle another big summer. Prior to researching solutions, it is important for pool and spa professionals to consider what they currently have and what they are looking for in a new system. Implementing new software can improve efficiency, ensure accuracy, and save company expenses in the long run. Today, there are many programs to manage all business processes, from sales to purchasing. The ideal option can collect data in a system and provide accessibility anywhere, anytime.
When considering new software, price should not be an intimidating factor. Rather than focusing on cost, one could prepare a list of areas where they would generate more revenue if employees had 20 additional hours a week to follow up on sales leads, make additional service calls, or attend to customers in the store. Next, they could check with the software provider if their solution could help capitalize on these missed opportunities.
