Why Industry-Specific Software is Better for Your Retail Business

When small business retailers look for new management systems, they often face a choice between custom-built bespoke software and vertical market software. While a custom system might seem attractive, vertical market software is specifically designed for niche industries. This industry-specific focus provides significant long-term advantages for specialist retailers.

Built-in expertise and best practice

Vertical market software is built with an understanding of the unique requirements of specific retail channels, such as jewellery stores, garden centres, or pet shops. These systems have industry intelligence and knowledge encoded directly into the software.

For example, a jewellery-specific system will include features for managing high-value inventory and specialised labelling. A system for a garden centre will be designed to handle live stock and weatherproof tagging. By choosing a vertical solution, you are adopting a system that already follows the best practices of your specific industry.

Efficiency and reduced costs

While a business can have software custom-made, bespoke systems are much more expensive to maintain over time. Vertical software allows businesses to operate in a consistent and efficient way without the high overheads of custom development.

Because the software is designed for your industry, it works correctly from the first day. You do not need to spend time explaining your basic business needs to a developer who does not understand your trade.

Enhancing business value

A significant benefit of vertical market software is that it makes a business more marketable if you decide to sell. Bespoke software is often difficult for new owners to learn, especially if the original staff who were trained on it depart.

In contrast, a vertical system used by many retailers in your sector is easily understood by potential buyers. It demonstrates that the business is being run according to proven industry standards.

Continuous improvement through peer review

Vertical market software often evolves through a transparent process involving many retailers. When a user suggests a new feature, it is assessed to see if it benefits the industry as a whole.

This democratic approach leads to better software for every user. It prevents businesses from wasting money on unique customisations that might not actually add value to their bottom line. By using vertical software, your business stays at the forefront of industry technology.

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The right POS system or website for any retail business depends on the specific needs of the retail business. Tower offers POS software and websites made specifically for local small business retailers in a selection of retail channels. To see if we might help you…, request a free, no-obligation demo today.  

Call 1300 662 957 in Australia or 0800 444 367 in New Zealand. Or, email sales@towersystems.com.au.