Why Rep Firms are Choosing ROM Over NetSuite
ROM vs NetSuite for Rep Firms
Manufacturing rep firms face multifaceted challenges, from managing complex supply chains to tracking orders, shipments, and commissions. The ideal software must do more than just manage workflows—it should provide real-time insights, ensure accuracy, and enable teams to focus on profitability. Both ROM and NetSuite offer solutions for these challenges, but ROM’s specialized features make it a better fit for rep firms aiming for efficiency and growth.
Understanding the Needs of a Manufacturing Rep Firm
Manufacturing rep firms face a unique set of challenges. They need to manage complex supply chains, maintain relationships with manufacturers and customers, and keep track of numerous orders and shipments. On top of that, they need to handle quotes, bids, and commissions, all while ensuring profitability. It’s a lot to handle, and without the right software, it can quickly become overwhelming.
The Importance of the Right SaaS Product
The right SaaS solution can transform how your business operates. The ideal software doesn’t just simplify processes; it makes them faster, smarter, and less prone to error. It should provide real-time insights into every corner of your operations—from bids and orders to shipments and commissions—ensuring you have the tools to stay ahead. But not all SaaS platforms are built the same. Some excel in certain areas but fall short in others. Others might be too complex or costly for small to medium-sized rep firms. That’s why selecting the right solution—one tailored to your specific needs and budget—is absolutely critical.
In this comparison, we’ll explore two key players: NetSuite and Rep Order Management (ROM). We’ll break down their features, pricing, and usability, focusing on what matters most for manufacturing rep firms. While both offer robust capabilities, ROM just might hold the edge you’ve been looking for. Let’s dive in.
Overview of NetSuite
NetSuite, developed by Oracle Corporation, has been a leading name in enterprise software for more than 20 years. Since its launch in 1998 as one of the first cloud-based business application providers, NetSuite has evolved into a robust suite of solutions designed to support businesses of all sizes and industries.
Five Key Features of NetSuite for Manufacturing Rep Firms
NetSuite provides a variety of tools that can support manufacturing rep firms. Below are some of its key features:
#1. ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning)
NetSuite’s ERP delivers real-time, automated management of critical business functions, including financial operations, order management, production, supply chain oversight, and procurement.
#2. CRM (Customer Relationship Management)
The CRM module offers a comprehensive, real-time view of customer interactions. Features include sales force automation, marketing tools, and customer service management, tailored to improve client relationships.
#3. Supply Chain and Inventory Management
NetSuite provides detailed insights into supply chain performance and inventory levels, enabling firms to optimize stock management. Its real-time visibility ensures rep firms can avoid overstocking or stock shortages while meeting client demands efficiently.
#4. Business Intelligence
Integrated business intelligence tools provide actionable insights into key areas like financial metrics, sales performance, and order management. These tools empower firms to make informed decisions based on real-time data.
#5. Global Business Management
With its OneWorld feature, NetSuite supports the management of multiple subsidiaries, business units, and legal entities. This functionality allows firms to handle global operations seamlessly, covering multi-currency transactions, tax compliance, and region-specific reporting.
Pricing and Implementation Costs of NetSuite
According to Techfino, NetSuite’s pricing is quote-based, meaning it varies depending on the specific needs and size of the business. However, it’s worth noting that NetSuite is generally considered a premium product, with pricing that may be on the higher end of the spectrum.
The cost of implementing NetSuite can also be significant. This includes the cost of data migration, system integration, hiring a NetSuite Engineer (These professionals cost between $140,000 to $200,000 yearly), training, and ongoing maintenance. According to some estimates, the total cost of ownership over a period of 10 years can range from $550,000 for a small business to over $20 million for a large enterprise. Plus, system Implementation can take months.
In the next section, we’ll take a closer look at Rep Order Management (ROM), a product that offers a compelling alternative to NetSuite for manufacturing rep firms.
Eight Key Features of ROM for Man Rep Firms
ROM is packed with features specifically designed to streamline the operations of manufacturing rep firms. Here’s a look at some of the key features that ROM provides:
#1. Bid Calendar
Staying on top of your bids is critical, and ROM’s Bid Calendar makes it effortless. This real-time tool provides a comprehensive view of all your bids, ensuring deadlines are never missed. Think of it as your digital assistant, organizing your pipeline so you can focus on securing more wins and driving revenue.
#2. AccuQuote
Say goodbye to the frustration of manual quoting. AccuQuote accelerates your workflow by enabling you to create accurate, professional quotes in minutes. Whether starting from scratch or reusing templates for consistency, AccuQuote ensures your proposals reflect your brand and professionalism, helping you stand out in a competitive market.
#3. AccuTrack
Managing the intricate details of sales can be overwhelming, but AccuTrack simplifies it all. Gain real-time insights into ship dates, sales volumes, and order profitability, all organized by Salesperson, Manufacturer, Bidder, and more. It’s like having a control tower for your operations, providing clarity and confidence at every step.
#4. Order Creation
Streamline the way you manage orders with ROM’s seamless order creation feature. Turn your won bids into sales orders with just a click. Generate unlimited sales orders per bidder or quote, while ROM’s financial tracking ensures you always have a clear, real-time picture of your profitability and commissions.
#5. Commission Tracking
Simplify commission management with ROM’s automated calculations. Track every detail in real time, ensuring accuracy and eliminating guesswork. From line-item breakdowns to comprehensive summaries, ROM keeps you and your team fully informed, reducing errors and saving time.
#6. Shipment Tracking
Stay in control of your logistics with ROM’s shipment tracking feature. Monitor every shipment in real time, from specific line items to full orders. Deliver superior service by keeping customers informed and managing your inventory more effectively—all with seamless updates at your fingertips.
#7. Real-time Analytics and Reporting
Make smarter decisions faster with ROM’s real-time analytics. Access critical performance metrics instantly and gain a clear understanding of your sales operations. With actionable insights at your disposal, you’ll be equipped to identify trends, optimize strategies, and drive growth.
#8. Predictive Quote Analysis
Focus your efforts where they matter most with ROM’s predictive quote analysis (coming soon). Using historical data, this feature forecasts bid outcomes, helping you target the most promising opportunities. Maximize your chances of success while minimizing wasted effort with data-driven insights.
Pricing and Implementation Costs of ROM
ROM’s pricing is transparent and straightforward, with plans starting at either $50 or $90 per user per month for access to all the key features listed. This makes it a more affordable option for small to medium-sized rep firms compared to NetSuite.
The implementation costs of ROM are $0, as all services provided are included in the monthly seat fee. Training, setup, support, and quote customization are all included at no charge. The software is designed to be user-friendly and easy to implement, reducing the need for extensive training or system integration. Most clients are fully using the system within 15 to 30 days.
In the next section, we’ll compare NetSuite and ROM side by side, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses and helping you decide which is the better fit for your manufacturing rep firm.
Comparing NetSuite vs ROM
When it comes to choosing between NetSuite and ROM, it’s essential to consider the specific needs of your manufacturing rep firm. Both offer a range of features, but their focus and approach are different. Let’s compare them side by side:
Key Features, Pricing, and Implementation
NetSuite offers a comprehensive suite of features, including ERP, CRM, supply chain and inventory management, business intelligence, and global business management. However, according to Techfino’s 2024 pricing guide, NetSuite’s pricing is quote-based and can be on the higher end, especially when you factor in the cost of implementation, engineers, and ongoing maintenance.
ROM, on the other hand, offers a suite of features specifically tailored to the needs of manufacturing rep firms. These include the Bid Calendar, AccuQuote, AccuTracker, Order Creation, Commission Tracking, Shipment Tracking, Real-time Analytics and Reporting, and Predictive Quote Analysis. ROM’s pricing is transparent and straightforward, starting at $90 per user per month, and its implementation costs are zero.
User Experience and Ease of Use
NetSuite is a robust and comprehensive solution, but it can also be complex and may require a steep learning curve. Reviewers on TrustRadius have reported that its interface is not as intuitive as they would like, and that it can be overwhelming for new users.
ROM is designed to be user-friendly and easy to implement. Its interface is intuitive and offers free setup and customization of your initial quote format. This can make it a more accessible option for small to medium-sized rep firms.
Customer Support and Resources
NetSuite offers a range of support options, including phone support, online support, and a knowledge base. However, according to a study completed by Technology Management Concepts, some users have reported that their support can be slow to respond and that it can be difficult to get help for more complex issues.
ROM also offers a range of support options, including phone support, online support, and a knowledge base. In addition, ROM offers free setup and customization of your initial quote format, which allows you to get up and running quickly.
While both NetSuite and ROM offer a range of features that can benefit manufacturing rep firms, ROM’s focus on the specific needs of these firms, its user-friendly interface, and its affordable pricing make it a compelling option.
Why ROM is the Better Option for Manufacturing Rep Firms
Selecting the right software is pivotal to the success of manufacturing rep firms. While both NetSuite and ROM offer valuable tools, ROM provides distinct advantages that make it the superior choice.
ROM’s Features Cater Specifically to Man Rep Firms
One of the key advantages of ROM is that it was designed specifically for manufacturing rep firms. Its features are tailored to the unique needs and challenges of these firms, making it a more targeted solution than NetSuite.
For example, ROM’s Bid Calendar is automatically updated as sales personnel are updating their pipelines, providing a real-time view of all your bids, helping you stay organized and never miss a deadline. Its QuoteBuilder feature allows you to quickly create accurate quotes and proposals, while AccuTracker helps you stay on top of every ship date, sales volume, and profit. These are all tasks that manufacturing rep firms deal with on a daily basis, and ROM makes them easier and more efficient. All of these features are available “out of the box” and do not require any setup or programming.
ROM’s Pricing Flexibility and Affordability
Another advantage of ROM is its pricing flexibility and affordability. With plans starting at $50 per user per month, ROM is a more accessible option for small to medium-sized rep firms compared to NetSuite, which is generally considered a premium product with a higher price tag.
In addition, ROM’s implementation costs are $0 and include setup, training, and quote customization – all at no cost. The software is designed to be easy to implement, reducing the need for extensive training or system integration.
ROM’s User-Friendly Interface and Easy Implementation
Finally, ROM’s user-friendly interface and easy implementation make it a more accessible option for rep firms. Unlike NetSuite, which can be complex and may require a steep learning curve, and customization. ROM is designed to be intuitive and easy to use. This can save your team time and effort, allowing them to focus on what they do best, selling your products and growing your business.
The Impact of ROM on Man Rep Firms
One of our clients, REA Incorporated, a mid-sized rep firm, was experiencing tremendous growth and needed a platform to support that growth. They had grown to the point where spreadsheets and their current systems were no longer able to support their needs. Managing bids, creating quotes, tracking orders, and calculating commissions are daunting tasks without the right tech to support those processes. Using a mix of different software tools, and spreadsheets is inefficient for any business.
After implementing ROM, they saw immediate improvements. The Bid Calendar helped them stay organized and never miss a deadline. AccuQuote allowed them to create quotes quickly and consistently, while AccuTracker gave them real-time insights into their operations. And with automatic Commission Tracking, they no longer had to worry about calculating commissions manually.
As a result, they were able to streamline their operations by reducing the number of systems being used, improving accuracy, and increasing profitability. They also reported that ROM was easy to implement and use and that it provided excellent value for the price.
This success story illustrates the impact that ROM can have on a manufacturing rep firm. By providing a suite of features designed specifically for these firms, ROM can help streamline operations, improve accuracy, and drive profitability.
Are You a Rep Firm Looking for a Software Solution?
If you’re a manufacturing rep firm looking for a software solution that’s tailored to your needs, affordable, and easy to use, we encourage you to give ROM a try. Contact ROM today for a demo and see for yourself how it can transform your operations and boost your profitability. Remember, the right software can make all the difference, and ROM is designed to be just that.