How can merging an ERP system with e-commerce platforms enhance the efficiency of salespeople? We delve into several possibilities by exploring the integration of Business Central with one of the most popular sales platforms in Poland - Allegro.
Methods of Integrating Business Central with Allegro
There are various integration methods available for connecting the systems. One of them involves leveraging an Application Programming Interface (API). Allegro provides its API, granting developers the opportunity to create a suitable integration with Business Central. Another option is utilizing third-party systems that allow the connection of different tools. One prominent solution of this type is BaseLinker. The choice between these methods for your company depends on several factors. It's worthwhile to consult specialists who can select the best solution - our consultants are ready to assist!
Benefits Arising from Integrating Business Central and Allegro
Let's now examine the reasons why conducting such integration is valuable. Here are some possibilities that the merger of Allegro and the ERP system offers:
- Product Management: Through the synchronization of products between Business Central and the sales platform, users can decide which items will be presented for sale. Two-way synchronization enables the creation of inventories both on the sales platform and within the ERP system. Managing inventories within the ERP system offers the advantage of utilizing a range of mechanisms to aid in adding new products (the system suggests measurement units, attributes based on templates, etc.). Proper inventory management is crucial, and AI-based inventory forecasting mechanisms (Forecast), which are part of Business Central, make it easier to ensure a consistent supply of products for Allegro customers.
- Customer Verification: Every potential customer wishing to buy items from our e-store can be verified within the ERP system. For wholesale transactions, the purchaser from the order header can be verified on government websites (active VAT taxpayer, V.I.E.S, or their White Lists). Before sending goods, the system will check the buyer's credit limits, overdue payments, or additional information affecting order fulfillment. For new customers added on the Allegro platform, who are also created in Microsoft Business Central, customer templates will prove useful (due to varying sales conditions for domestic, EU, or export customers) as well as the GUS (Central Statistical Office) search. Based on the Tax Identification Number (NIP), the system can automatically populate basic customer data.
- Price Management: Managing prices for hundreds of products on a sales platform can be challenging. With the pricing mechanism in Business Central, the system suggests the selling price needed to achieve the desired margin. Importantly, when the purchase price changes, the system updates the selling price using embedded algorithms that aid in achieving the desired margin.
- Order and Return Handling: All orders from the sales platform are transferred to the ERP system. Among the advantages of order management are:
- Utilizing order fulfillment planning: Aggregating warehouse releases enables efficient warehouse management.
- Leveraging warehouse management tools: Business Central is equipped for both straightforward (issue and receipt) and intricate warehouse management using locations, zones, and mobile terminals.
- Facilitating quick payments: Information about fast payments can be transferred to the ERP system, ensuring real-time updates of customer account balances.
- Potential integration with logistic operator platforms: Business Central's flexibility enables real-time shipment tracking, ordering transportation, and printing logistic labels.
- Real-time order fulfillment updates can be conveyed to the Allegro platform.
In conclusion, integrating Business Central with Allegro brings forth substantial advantages that streamline various aspects of sales and business operations.
