Almost every business uses some kind of business software to help them be more successful. We are not talking Microsoft Word or Excel. Business software helps a company run the vital elements of their business, control costs, automate functions, etc. Even small businesses use some kind of accounting program to help them keep their books, send invoices, make payroll and pay their taxes. Savvy small business owners use more advanced software to help them run the critical parts of their business.

Large companies use advanced software to manage sales leads, track projects, control manufacturing, and other vital functions. They understand the investment and why it’s important to not only make the right purchase but why it’s important to work with their software provider on an ongoing basis. The software companies provide support for their systems but they also have a good understanding of how their software can help improve their customers business. They have generally worked with thousands of customers, learning from each one and taking the experience and incorporating it into their systems to help other businesses improve. Using an advanced software system doesn’t only help you do mundane tasks faster, it gives you access to the experiences of thousands of other businesses.

Technology professionals who work for large companies know that software is an investment. The money they put into a system must have a return on investment. Large businesses will spend hundreds of thousands, even millions of dollars annually on software. And not only on new software but on annual maintenance of existing systems as well. Why are they willing to spend so much? Because they understand for every dollar they spend, they are making or saving much, much more.

Many small businesses have embraced the use of advanced software to help them run their businesses as well. It’s hard to find a small business that isn’t using some sort of accounting program. However they tend to see it as a simple tool and try to find the lowest cost option. Why? Because accounting is accounting, right? More and more small businesses are thinking like large companies and looking at their software as an investment. They spend the time to learn about each option, what it will bring them, how it will help them save, and even more importantly, how it will help them MAKE more money. They research the company behind the software they are purchasing. They take the time to learn about what the software can do for them and what each systems strengths and weaknesses are. They listen to the software company’s sales representatives. Is the rep just trying to get them to buy or are they asking them questions about their business? Does the rep even understand their business environment? Are they selling software or can they offer a solution? Microsoft Word is software. A full management system that runs a BUSINESS is a solution. That shouldn’t be taken that lightly. It could end up costing hundreds of thousands of dollars in the long run.

When looking at software for your pawnshop, remember it’s an investment. Do your research. Try to determine what the long term return on your investment will be. This system will be the most important tool in driving your revenue. Make sure it’s the right one for your business.