Sunday, 2 August 2015

Ways to Track Customer Orders

Tracking and making sure customer orders arrive on time and in good condition are critical business goals. Internal tracking helps you separate active from inactive customers, identify high-dollar sales and create effective marketing campaigns. External tracking is not only a vital customer service tool, but is also important for managing customer satisfaction. Both small and large businesses have a variety of options to meet their internal and external tracking goals.

Use a Basic Spreadsheet
 A simple, no-frills spreadsheet can work for an office of one or a very small business. Create your own or use a template. To create your own, add column labels for the sale date, customer name or ID, descriptions or product numbers for ordered items and price information, including any applicable sales tax. If you have a sales staff, add a column for the salesperson’s name or ID. Use sorting and filtering options to customize the view to see specific information, such as all orders for a specific customer, all orders within a certain amount or all orders for a specific product within a specific date range.

Create an Order Tracking Database
Use database software, such as Microsoft Access or OpenOffice Base, to track customer orders by building an order-management database. If you use Microsoft Access 2003 or later, consider downloading, installing and using an order-management database template. Although the template comes with pre-defined tables, forms and reports, you can modify the database to suit your needs. In its default state, the database has options for tracking customers, order details, payment methods, products and shipping methods. One of the most useful reports for tracking customers is an orders summary you can customize to show all or only certain orders.

Use Customer Relationship Software
CRM, or customer relationship management software, is suitable for businesses having an external sales force. Although CRM software started as a simple electronic contact-management system, most programs now include options that allow you track orders from start to finish throughout the sales pipeline. For example, you can use CRM to record information about a new prospect’s wants and needs, record sales call details during prospect development and finally, record, track and create a customer orders history.

Track In-progress Orders
Use your shippers order tracking service as a customer-management tool. Order tracking features save time, protect your business and provide a valuable customer service. Both you and the customer can track progress from the time an order leaves the warehouse until it arrives at the customer’s door, which reduces inquiry calls. You’ll know when and who received the order, which can protect you from a fraudulent non-delivery claim. Regular status update notifications make it easier for customers to stay informed if an unexpected delay changes the expected delivery date.

Twitter Delicious Facebook Digg Stumbleupon Favorites More

 
Design by Free WordPress Themes | Bloggerized by Lasantha - Premium Blogger Themes | Affiliate Network Reviews