"How much does a system cost?" is a fair question, and a difficult one to answer without knowing the business. Two companies can both ask for inventory software and need very different things. These are the factors that usually make the difference.
Number of branches and locations
More locations mean more stock to track, more transfers between sites, and more reports to bring together. It is often one of the biggest factors in the scope.
Which functions you need
Sales and stock are one level of work. Adding payroll, bookings, loyalty or accounting adds more screens, rules and testing.
How unusual your rules are
Standard steps are straightforward. Your own approval chains, commission formulas or pricing per customer take more care to build and test.
Connections to other tools
Linking a system to payment providers, marketplaces, SMS or accounting software takes extra setup, and some of those providers charge their own fees.
Moving your existing records
Clean records are quick to import. Years of inconsistent spreadsheets need sorting first, and that work is easy to forget when budgeting.
Training and support
A system only helps if your team uses it. Check whether a walkthrough at launch and ongoing support are included, or charged separately.
How to compare quotes
- Is the scope written down, feature by feature?
- What is included after launch?
- Are third-party fees listed separately?
- How long is the minimum commitment?
- What happens to your data if you leave?
Be careful with any price given before someone understands your process. A quote is only useful when it is based on what you actually need, which is why it's worth having that conversation first.