Web-based Software Automation and the Cellular Retailer

Helping small businesses level the playing field with large businesses

Introduction
Web-based software automation is an essential part in managing business processes in today's cellular/wireless retail environment. An effective solution must have the ability to manage all of a company's operations simultaneously with virtually no interaction by an administrator on a daily basis.

Until recently, the most advanced systems were out of reach to all but large retail organizations. With the advent of web-based software automation, small businesses now have the ability to level the playing field with larger corporations by affordably accessing cost-effective, cutting-edge features that previously were not viable due to the required costs and infrastructure.

There are many aspects regarding web-based software automation that make it an attractive, if not a necessary, alternative for small to mid-sized cellular retailers.

This document addresses the following key points that cellular retailers, wholesalers, and master agents need to know.

Upfront Costs
Web-based software automation allows businesses to implement best-of-breed applications without the associated upfront capital outlay. In lieu of one large payment for a certain version of software, web-based application customers pay predictable monthly fees. These fees usually include support and maintenance, ensuring that the software is always up and running. The money that would have otherwise been used upfront can be directed to other areas of the business.

Implementation
Until recently, to implement a company-wide software application users were required to install the application (even several applications) on each computer in each office and retail store across the company. This meant meeting hardware and software requirements and hours upon hours of downtime in order to get the system installed and up-and-running. Because of their web browser based architecture, web-based applications are almost instantly deployed. With minimal or no training, users can follow a very easy deployment process with a negligible investment of time. No matter which operating system (or systems) is being used to run the daily business, if users can access the web, they can access and use a web-based software automation application.

Accessibility
Web-based software automation applications can be accessed anytime, from anywhere in the world, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, by using any web browser. Regardless of whether they are at home, the office, or one of their retail stores, authorized users can access all of the company's data and make any necessary modifications. Also, since users are accessing business information in real-time, they can keep up with, and effectively manage, employees and associates.