Take a moment to think about what goes into the development and execution of an omnichannel supply chain. Orders may be placed in the store, online or over the phone. Meanwhile, returns and parts may still flow through each channel. Customers may want to split purchases between channels. However, all channels must communicate clearly to ensure the customer’s needs are met on time, each time and at the right cost. As a result, more companies are implementing an enterprise order management system (EOMS) to handle all these processes and activities, and you need to understand what an EOMS truly does to create a seamless, omnichannel supply chain.

1. An Enterprise Order Management System Enhances Global Inventory Management.

Unlike internal, site-based warehouse management systems, an enterprise order management system combines data from all a company’s potential vendors and buyers to ensure the right products are available in demand, reports Manhattan Associates. Furthermore, accuracy in shipping is essential to creating a successful omnichannel supply chain, so the system must also perform self-auditing and notification of potential issues to the company.

2. Effective EOMS Systems Leverage the Power of the Cloud.

Cloud-computing technology powers EOMS systems by giving all parties involved in a transaction, including store merchants, a seat at the order fulfillment table. By combining information across all locations within an enterprise, companies can allocate proper inventory to respective channels and ensure the easy transition of products between channels to create a seamless buying experience to the end user.

3. EOMS Reduces Headache in Executive-Level Decision Making.

Part of the key boosts to an enterprise from implementing EOMS systems lies in reducing stress and workload for executive-level leadership. For example, systems can balance inventory across multiple sites and provide data-based metrics to stakeholders. Therefore, the level of visibility in the company increases and the woes of assumption-based decisions can be avoided.

4. They Simplify Inventory Management.

The EOMS serves a simple purpose; it simplifies order management and helps prevent bottlenecks in the supply chain. As more companies turn to omnichannel supply chains for growth, greater control over inventory will be necessary. Also, emerging markets and new products will increase shelving space demand for retailers, in factories, warehouses, and brick-and-mortar stores. Thus, the demand for timely inventory management and control over the omnichannel supply chain will increase.

The Big Picture.

The omnichannel supply chain is going to increase in use in the coming years. With more companies growing into mature positions in the global economy, companies must create a buying experience for consumers that transcends expectations of shopping through a primary venue. Essentially, online, in-store and over the phone sales channels must develop pathways to create an ongoing loop of information and products that consumers can access. Fortunately, EOMS systems are ready to handle this demand.