New Robust Accounting Software Program for Consignment, Resale, Retail and Thrift Shops Inventory Sales

What is a Network?

In simple terms, a 'computer network' is 2 or more computers linked together and sharing the same information and resources (like printers, removable drives, CD-ROM drives and Internet connections).

Networked businesses typically have one main computer on the network (typically in the 'back office' under management control) for storing data and performing administrative tasks (mailings, computing and paying settlements and commissions, producing reports, etc.). More computers on the network are on the 'sale floor'. Users have restricted access and only add customer information and process sales.

The Advantages of Networking

Networking allows everyone in the store to input and access current information about consignors, customers, sales and inventory - (quantity on hand, prices, discounts, etc.) without passing around files on floppy or CD.

Networking provides an immediate and accurate inventory count of all items in inventory and adjusts inventory records as items are sold, returned or received.

Networking saves hard disk space by storing only one copy of large files.

Here are some practical applications:

The last of an item has been sold. The software automatically changes the quantity of the item to zero so all clerks will know the item is sold out. The item remains in inventory unless removed.

A new shipment of an item arrives. The back office adjusts the quantity to the new quantity available. The item appears at POS stations with the quantity shown.

The back office adds a note to a consignor or customer record for employees to see when viewing that person's record.

The Disadvantages of Networking

To the average computer user, networking is complex. They require correct setup and configuration and they must be maintained, which explains why there are 'network technicians' who make a living just from configuring and servicing networks.

To the average pocket book, networking is expensive. Store owners often try to run software that was designed for light or home use (Windows XP Home Edition, Consignpro consignment software) and/or they don't spend the necessary funds to upgrade all computers and network equipment to that needed for commercial use.

Additional copies of the consignment software must be purchased for each computer. At Liberty and Consignpro, 7 additional licenses costs $2,065! Seven BCSS licenses is only $700.

Liberty's annual service fee is $3,600 in 10 years. Consignpro's 10-year service fee will increase from $1,250 to $2,500 for 5 or more networked computers. The annual service fee for BCSS is $0. This 'prohibitive cost factor' is easily resolved by converting your consignment software to BCSS. Even the conversion is free.

Should You Network?

Absolutely, if your bottom line is going to increase because of it. Employee moral might get a boost. A better impression might be made on consignors and customers. Fewer mistakes might be made and business might be transacted more smoothly with everyone sharing the same updated information. You might save a lot of time by being more organized and making best use of resources.

You should network only if you can afford to start with the best NIC cards, Ethernet cables and computer resources.

Beyond that, the expense in networking will be determined by consignment software you use. If you plan on being in business for 10 years, then you need to look at the 10-year cost of owning any software program.

Please keep in mind: If BCSS runs correctly on one machine, it will run correctly on a network. You must, however, use the best equipment and local knowledgeable technical support.

Related: How to Set Up a Network