Posted in Digital Commerce
August 25, 2023
How Configuration Tools Improve ROI For Manufacturers
Kyle Zwaagstra, Partnerships Manager at Acro Commerce, dives into configuration tools and the return on investment they can give B2B manufacturers.
Stepping into the role of Partnerships Manager at Acro, I brought with me a wealth of experience in hospitality technology, particularly in the realm of smart lighting controls and devices. Over the past three months, I've been immersing myself in the world of ecommerce, and it has been an enlightening journey, discovering an array of tools that I wish I had known about earlier.
From omnichannel feed management with Feedonomics to AI-driven search capabilities offered by Klevu and ShipperHQ's seamless checkout experience, I encounter awesome new tools every day that are designed to make merchants' lives easier and more profitable. Amidst this wealth of options, one tool has particularly stood out to me - the game-changing power of configuration tools.
Put yourself in the shoes of a manufacturer in the hospitality industry, offering custom solutions for furniture, kitchen equipment, carpets, or even cutting-edge lighting and technology. Traditionally, the process of fulfilling customer requests involved a lengthy back-and-forth of requesting quotes through sales representatives, with multiple designs and requoting. But what if there's a smarter way to handle this? Enter Configuration Tools.
Taylormade has a great example of a configuration tool for their MyStealth 2 Plus Driver.
Zarges allows B2B buyers to customize and download the specific data sheet for a Mobile Access Step with Platform.
These innovative tools employ everything from 3D modelling to visualizing entire room layouts, allowing your customers to become their own designers and architects. They can now create and customize products and layouts, finding the exact match for their unique preferences in real time. How often have you heard customers express their love for a product but yearn for a simpler "point and click" experience?
Kyle, you're rambling.
How are configuration tools going to help ROI?
Customer Empowerment
Configuration tools liberate customers from pre-defined options, granting them the freedom to personalize products. This heightened engagement creates a deeper connection between customers and your brand.
Instant Gratification
In the age of seamless shopping experiences, customers expect quick results. Configuration tools provide instant visual feedback on changes made, sparking excitement and increasing the likelihood of purchasing.
Reduced Errors and Revisions
Traditional request for quote, or RFQ, processes can be plagued with delays and errors. Modern customers prefer to skip the back-and-forth and shop online with confidence. Configuration tools give them complete control over their selections, minimizing misunderstandings and the need for revisions.
Speed and Efficiency
Strike while the iron's hot — configuration tools accelerate the quoting process, empowering customers to make informed decisions swiftly, ultimately expediting the sales cycle.
Scalable Solutions
Whether you're a small business with a dozen products or a large enterprise with thousands, configuration tools can seamlessly adapt to your catalogue, providing a scalable solution for all.
Insightful Data
Configuration tools offer valuable insights into customer preferences and popular configurations. Armed with this data, manufacturers can optimize their product offerings and tailor marketing strategies for better results.
Are configuration tools right for your company?
I would love to hear from you! Whether you've had firsthand experience with configuration tools or stumbled upon other fascinating technologies that have sparked innovation in your processes, your feedback is invaluable.
Share your thoughts in the contact form below, and let's create an open space for inspiring discussions.