Abstract

This IDC study evaluates eight vendors that sell distributed order management software. Companies today are increasingly faced with multiple challenges that we think necessitates the next iteration of order management, one that includes a distribution strategy to compete in an increasingly ecommerce world that complicates the supply chain at the eaches level. The research and analysis completed in the process of developing this document reflect how a technology buyer today would evaluate vendor capabilities, with an eye on how the company is addressing distribution complexity to satisfy customer needs. A majority of the vendors included in our analysis have invested significant R&D dollars to advance their platforms and capabilities to solve and get ahead of current and future retail order management and distribution challenges.

According to Victoria Brown, research manager, IDC Retail Insights, "Order management has evolved tremendously in the past several years. No longer is it acceptable for retailers to make due with inventory as it is placed. Order orchestration across distribution points has become a competitive necessity in today's retail landscape, particularly for small and midsized retailers where every movement weighs that much more on their bottom line."

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