As much as we all like to think things have moved on , and they have , there is still a level of stigma attached to selling in the home . Aside from the practical downsides of making a pitch in the living room , people simply prefer the online experience . According to Management Consultancy Alvarez and Marsal , 29.6 % of UK consumer spending is expected to shift to online permanently . Even when we venture into a physical shop , we appreciate the option of self-service checkouts , and an increasing number of us are ditching cash and physical debit cards to pay with our smart phones . We are increasingly a population that prefers to interact online .

The role of the salesperson , however , is by no means obsolete . An approach that embraces both online and a personal touch gives buyers the comfort of personal service , while affording them the freedom to do things at their own pace . Forward thinking installers that want to get ahead of the competition have already adapted this combined methodology when selling windows in the home .

One integrated system for all

The tried , tested , and trusted AdminBase installer management system makes this particularly easy to do as it integrates the admin from the entire installation business in one place , making it easier to give homeowners access to the information that is relevant to them on demand .

AdminBase has recently partnered with PricepointTM Sales to ensure a smooth online user experience from the first point of contact . PricepointTM Sales is an online system that helps installers sell their products . It is simple and intuitive to use with endless product types featured and professional high-definition images used , and installation sales teams can use the system in the home to support their sales pitch , even without an internet connection . It can create customised quotations , and if consumers try to opt for a product combination that isn ’ t possible due to manufacturing restrictions , the system will highlight it immediately thanks to its clever built-in Manufacturing IntelligenceTM .

Following the sales process through , the AdminBase system also allows for the collection of e-signatures to confirm a sale . E-mailed documents can be signed and returned by consumers , eliminating the need for additional visits , and allowing homeowners the freedom to sign at a time that suits them 24 / 7 .

Convenient online access for customers

Once the homeowner becomes a customer , they can be given access to their own Customer Portal where they can log in and track their sale . They can check and confirm appointment times , pay invoices and even report snagging issues when the project is complete . This is useful for busy consumers who may find it easier to review progress and provide any necessary input after hours , but also offers

installation businesses fantastic efficiencies .

These efficiencies don ’ t end with the client relationship either . For example , the recent addition of a barcoding facility to AdminBase allows for faster tracking of products into and out of the factory or warehouse .

Meanwhile , the My AdminBase diary feature , and fully integrated reporting systems , collectively keep track of where time could be better spent , how marketing spend could be better distributed , and which actions within the business need to be prioritised . And each time any part of the system is updated , the change is live for all other users to see , ensuring the information in AdminBase is always up to date and relevant .

The preference for online research , ordering and management of accounts is already here and although industries requiring physical labour may not consider this a relevant shift to their business , it is . Consumers have already changed their behaviour by choosing more online and self-service options , and this trend will only spread . Installation companies should be adapting their business model sooner rather than later to stay ahead of the curve .

www . abinitiosoftware . co . uk