Manual quotations might have worked for you so far but if you feel that this task is taking up unnecessary time and resources, it might be time to upgrade to quoting software. The software is easy to install, use, and access. It uses an internet connection which means that quotations and other financial information and data can be accessed from virtually anywhere. If you are still stuck in the old manual way to making quotations, consider the benefits of upgrading to a software service.
Quicker Quotations for Clients
If your clients have to wait days for a quotation, you could be missing out on business from impatient customers. The quicker you give the quotation the quicker work can begin. Quoting software is almost instantaneous. You can get accurate quotes to your customers within minutes. Your quick response also has a positive influence on your business image. The software is a great way to build a reputation for efficiency, customer service, and quick turnaround times.
More Focus on Core Competencies
This advantage is especially true for sole business owners. If you find that you are spending most of your time creating and sending out quotes, you may benefit greatly from the software. iQuoteXpress has a simple interface with point-and-click features to get the job done in mere minutes. You can use the extra time to focus on business areas that bring in money directly. What’s more, you may not have to hire additional full time staff to take care of the accounting aspect of things if the bulk of the work involves quotes.
Better Accuracy
Manual quoting is prone to human error in addition to being tedious and repetitive. Software is much more accurate and dramatically reduces the chances of errors especially where complex quotes are concerned. Quotation errors can lead to legal issues and quickly ruin your business reputation. Quoting software protects you from avoidable errors and boost conversion rates.
Professional Quotations
Although there is nothing wrong with regular old spreadsheets, they speak nothing unique about your business. Quote software comes with a multitude of attractive templates to set your business aside from your competition. If a client, for example, has requested multiple quotes it helps a great deal if yours stands out from the rest. You need all the help you can get to identify your business as unique and special.
How to Choose Quoting Software
Now that you are sold on the advantages of quoting software, it is worth looking at some of the essentials you should consider when choosing the best option.
Business Appropriate Software
If your proposals and quotes are more or less the same, automated quotation software is a great option. It doesn’t require much skill to use and can pump out accurate quotes in a matter of minutes. If, on the other hand you receive a wide range of quotations, a more manual option makes more sense. Such software allows for tweaking and tailoring to ensure the quote fits the client.
Direct Payment Option
This option is specifically geared to online business. Providing a quote is well and good but if you don’t make the sale, that time might have been wasted. Software that accepts payment without your prompting is a valuable ally in your business. This enables customers to get an estimate and make payment all in the same breath and can do wonders for your conversion rates.
Flexible Software
There are two main types of quoting software. One installs directly on your desktop and works whether you have an internet connection or are offline. The second option is a web based application. The latter is preferable for a number of reasons. Firstly, you can access the software any time as long as you have access to the internet. This feature is useful if you regularly have to work remotely. Secondly, you don’t have to worry about backups, security updates, and other maintenance. Your vendor takes care of all that from his end.
Quoting software can save you from the mind-numbing and repetitive task of writing quotes for clients. The software can potentially improve your conversion rates and bottom line. At the very least, you save precious time that could be better spent on tasks that make money or grow your business directly.
