Top 7 Best Inventory Management Software in 2026

Owyn Thomas Kerr

Lark Content Manager

Aug 5, 2026

Owyn Thomas Kerr

Lark Content Manager

Aug 5, 2026

Try Lark for free
16 min read
Many inventory management systems today can manage multiple sites, monitor product shelf life, and generate insights that directly improve operations and customer satisfaction. Even though these systems can certainly do a lot, the steep learning curves and high prices are preventing many businesses from reaping the benefits.
In this article, I'll explain what inventory management software is, how it differs from traditional spreadsheets, its key benefits, and the top free and paid solutions available to help you choose the one that best fits your needs.

Best inventory management software

  1. Lark for affordable, powerful, all-in-one inventory management
  1. NetSuite WMS for complete ERP integration
  1. Fishbowl for seamless QuickBooks integration
  1. Odoo Inventory for open-source flexibility
  1. Zoho Inventory for simple onboarding and interface
  1. inFlow Inventory for reporting and analytics
  1. Cin7 for complete omnichannel synchronization

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What is inventory management software?

Inventory management software goes by many names, including inventory monitoring software, inventory control software, or inventory tracking software. While there may be subtle differences, they all essentially refer to the same thing, which is software that helps businesses track, manage, and control the products they keep in stock.
The software records stock levels, storage locations, and inventory movements as items are received, sold, or transferred. Teams can use it to maintain an accurate view of available inventory across multiple warehouses, stores, or fulfillment locations. And this visibility sets the stage for better planning, cost control, and day-to-day efficiency.
These capabilities make inventory software indispensable across diverse industries, including retail, manufacturing, F&B, logistics, and healthcare.
A modern warehouse that uses inventory management software

Manual inventory tracking vs. Digital inventory tracking

It may be hard to believe, but many businesses are still managing inventory with paper records, spreadsheets, and physical counts. That can have a real negative impact on your business since:
  • Stock information is always a little behind reality
  • Mistakes happen when entering data by hand
  • It's hard to see what's happening across multiple locations
  • Staff spend lots of time on paperwork instead of meaningful work
  • All that headcount just to do what software can do costs
If this sounds familiar, making the switch to digital inventory management is a no-brainer. Modern inventory tracking software automatically captures data, provides real-time updates, and integrates seamlessly with your other business tools. Here are some of the best free and affordable options that are easy to use.

7 Best software for inventory management in 2026

The inventory management software market offers solutions ranging from simple small business tools to comprehensive enterprise platforms. These are the leading options across different market segments.
Software
Why we recommend it
Free plan
Starting price
Lark
A cost-effective all-in-one inventory management solution with collaboration tools
$6 per month per user
NetSuite WMS
Complete ERP integration
Custom
Fishbowl
Seamless QuickBooks integration
$199 per month for 2 users
Odoo Inventory
Open-source flexibility
$24.90 per month per user
Zoho Inventory
Simple onboarding and interface
$29 per month for 2 users
inFlow Inventory
Reporting and analytics
$149 per month for 2 users
Cin7
Complete omnichannel synchronization
$349 per month for 5 users

1. Lark - All-in-one cost-effective inventory and business management software

A dashboard showing key inventory data and a mobile screen showing notifications for inventory changes
Imagine starting your day knowing exactly what's in stock, who's handling which task, and which orders need attention, all without digging through spreadsheets or juggling multiple apps. That's what Lark brings to your business.
Lark makes managing inventory effortless. You can track stock, chat with your team, fill out documents, schedule meetings, contact vendors, share reports, and monitor performance—all from a single super app that works on any device. This gives your team the freedom to focus on what really matters: growing your business, delighting your customers, and making work feel a little less chaotic.
Lark's mobile app offers an alternative to companies that only offer web-based inventory management software solutions
With Lark, you can easily track inventory and manage your entire supply chain from anywhere, while keeping your whole team perfectly synchronized.
Key features:
  • Stay informed instantly: Smart notifications and real-time dashboards give managers immediate visibility into stock levels, sales, and potential issues, ensuring decisions are always based on the latest data.
  • Process deliveries efficiently: Teams can upload receipts and photos, scan codes, and flag quality issues directly through the mobile app, reducing paperwork and making supplier communication faster and more transparent.
  • Keep records accurate: Inventory updates automatically in Lark Base as items are received, with batch numbers and expiry dates logged for traceability. Everything syncs across devices, eliminating time spent reconciling spreadsheets.
  • Automate workflows: AI and automation digitize routine tasks, freeing your team to focus on higher-priority projects and strategic work.
  • Fulfill orders seamlessly: Customer and internal orders trigger instant updates, while fulfillment teams coordinate through group chats and track progress with checklists. This ensures timely deliveries and keeps everyone aligned.
  • Handle returns smoothly: Returns are submitted through digital forms, approved with one click, and immediately reflected in the system. Teams can schedule video calls if needed, and use AI to summarize next steps.
  • Request with confidence: Lark Approval centralizes purchase requests, stock transfers, supplier changes, budget approvals, and more in one no-code workflow system, speeding up decision-making.
  • Launch faster with templates: Skip the setup and dive in with a vast library of ready-to-use templates designed for any use case. Here's a store inventory management template to get you started:
Rating:
  • Gartner: 4.8
  • G2: 4.5
  • Capterra: 4.4
"We don't have to look for information, information finds us. By using Lark as a digital hub integrated with our other systems, critical updates are automatically pushed to the right teams. This direct delivery has cut down search time and speeds up our response to operational needs."
- Muliya Jaya Fathullah, ILCS
Pricing:
  • Starter plan: Free forever plan that includes 11 powerful tools for up to 20 users. It also comes with 100GB of storage space, 1000 automation runs, AI translations, and more. No credit card needed.
  • Basic plan: $6/user/month (billed annually) for up to 500 users. It includes everything in Starter and unlimited message history, 5TB of storage space, 1,000 automation runs, and more. Some users may need to contact sales to purchase this plan.
  • Pro plan: $12/user/month (billed annually) for up to 500 users. It includes everything in Basic plus group calling for up to 500 attendees, 15TB of storage space, 50,000 automation runs, and more.
  • Enterprise plan: Contact sales for custom pricing. Supports unlimited users and includes even more automation runs and advanced security, compliance, and management features.
Starter
Pro
Enterprise

Starter

For small teams with simple communication needs

$0

/ user / month

Try for free

No credit card needed

20 users max
18 months message history
1-on-1 video meetings
100 GB storage
Lark Docs & Mail
1000 Base automation runs/month
2000 rows per table in Base

Pro

For companies with comprehensive collaboration and management needs

$12

/ user / month

Billed annually

500 users max
Unlimited message history
500-participant video meetings
15 TB storage
Lark Docs & Mail
50k Base automation runs/month
20k rows per table in Base

Enterprise

For large companies with advanced security and organizational management needs

Get a personalized demo and pricing

Unlimited users
Unlimited message history
500-participant video meetings
15 TB storage + 30 GB storage/user
Lark Docs & Mail
500k Base automation runs/month
50k Base automation runs/month
Single sign-on (SSO)

Pro

For companies with comprehensive collaboration and management needs

$12

/ user / month

Billed annually

500 users max
Unlimited message history
500-participant video meetings
15 TB storage
Lark Docs & Mail
50k Base automation runs/month
20k rows per table in Base

2. NetSuite WMS - Enterprise-level solution with advanced analytics

Interface of NetSuite, an enterprise-grade warehoue inventory monitoring system
Image source: netsuite.com
NetSuite Warehouse Management System (WMS) streamlines warehouse operations by automating key tasks like barcode scanning, returns, and cycle counts. Designed for businesses handling hundreds or thousands of SKUs across multiple locations, it reduces manual entry and handling costs while boosting efficiency.
Key features:
  • Complete ERP integration for end-to-end business process management.
  • Advanced analytics and customizable dashboards.
  • Multi-subsidiary and international support with currency handling.
  • Sophisticated workflow automation and approval processes.
Rating:
  • Gartner: 4.1
  • G2: 4.1
  • Capterra: 4.2
Pricing:
  • No fixed price available online. You must request a quote from NetSuite directly.

3. Fishbowl Inventory - Manufacturing and QuickBooks integration

Client interface of fishbowl, a sales and inventory monitoring system
Image source: theretailexec.com
Fishbowl Inventory helps businesses track inventory, manage multiple warehouse locations, and simplify complex manufacturing—all through one easy-to-use, powerful platform. It's ideal for QuickBooks and Xero users thanks to seamless integration, keeping your accounting and inventory perfectly in sync.
Key features:
  • Seamless QuickBooks integration helps maintain accounting system continuity.
  • Bill of materials (BOM) management for manufacturing operations.
  • Advanced lot and serial number tracking.
  • Comprehensive barcode scanning support.
Rating:
  • Gartner: N/A
  • G2: 4.0
  • Capterra: 4.2
Pricing:
  • Fishbowl Inventory's basic plan starts at $199 per month for 2 users.
For more on Fishbowl pricing, see Fishbowl Pricing: What It Costs and When It's Worth It.

4. Odoo Inventory - Open source inventory management software

Interface of Odoo, an open-source inventory and monitory system
Image source: odoo.com
Odoo Inventory is a comprehensive open source warehouse and inventory management system that gives businesses real-time visibility into stock levels and automates the movement of goods. With features like automated reordering and detailed reporting, it streamlines supply chain operations while integrating seamlessly with Odoo's other business apps.
Key features:
  • Manage all storage, stock, and replenishments across multiple warehouses.
  • Set rules to automatically trigger purchase requests and notify managers when stock is low.
  • Streamline picking paths using strategies like FIFO, FEFO, or nearest zone, with flexible batch, cluster, or wave picking.
  • Use barcode scanners for receipts, picking, packing, and inventory adjustments.
Rating:
  • Gartner: 4.1
  • G2: 4.5
  • Capterra: 4.2
Pricing:
  • Odoo has a free plan, but it doesn't include the inventory management features. Paid plans that include Odoo Inventory start at $24.90 per user per month.

5. Zoho Inventory - Simple inventory management software with CRM integration

Interface of Zoho Inventory,  a popular monitoring inventory system
Image source: softwareadvice.com
Zoho Inventory is a cheap cloud-based software ideal for small businesses to manage stock, orders, and multi-channel sales. It features real-time inventory tracking, warehouse management, and reporting to prevent stockouts and optimize operations.
Key features:
  • Affordable pricing with comprehensive basic features.
  • Integration with Zoho CRM and other Zoho business apps.
  • Multi-channel sales support, including online marketplaces.
  • Mobile apps for on-the-go inventory management.
Rating:
  • Gartner: 4.4
  • G2: 4.3
  • Capterra: 4.5
Pricing:
  • Free plan available for up to 50 orders/month. Paid plans start at $29 per user per month for 2 users.

6. inFlow Inventory - Mid-market solution with strong reporting tools

Interface of inFlow inventory, a bulk inventory monitorying system
Image source: capterra.com
inFlow Inventory helps growing businesses manage inventory, purchasing, and orders across multiple locations. It offers easy-to-use desktop-to-cloud flexibility, strong customer support, cost tracking for serialized products, and manufacturing reports.
Key features:
  • Intuitive interface designed for non-technical users.
  • Extensive reporting and analytics capabilities.
  • Strong customer support and training resources.
  • Flexible pricing options for different business sizes.
Rating:
  • Gartner: N/A
  • G2: 4.4
  • Capterra: 4.6
Pricing:
  • No free plan is available. Paid plans start at $149 per month for 2 users.

7. Cin7 - Omnichannel inventory management for retail and wholesale

Interface of Cin7
Image source: softwareadvice.com
Cin7 is an inventory management platform that integrates with eCommerce platforms, offering real-time tracking, B2B portals, and point-of-sale systems. With accounting integration and customizable pricing, it helps businesses scale efficiently.
Key features:
  • Complete omnichannel synchronization across retail, wholesale, and e-commerce.
  • Integrated point-of-sale system for retail operations.
  • Advanced demand planning and forecasting.
  • Extensive third-party integrations, including shipping and marketplace connectors.
Rating:
  • Gartner: 2.7
  • G2: 4.1
  • Capterra: 4.3
Pricing:
  • No free plan is available. Paid plans start at $349 per month for 5 users.

Other great software for inventory management

  • Sortly: A highly visual and user-friendly inventory app ideal for small businesses needing to track items and assets using photos, QR codes, and barcodes
  • Finale Inventory: A cloud-based platform designed for multi-channel e-commerce businesses, providing real-time stock synchronization across online marketplaces like Amazon and Shopify.
  • Lightspeed: A powerful inventory management system that is fully integrated into its comprehensive retail and restaurant point-of-sale (POS) platform.
  • Katana: A manufacturing ERP focused on giving small to medium-sized businesses real-time control over raw materials, production scheduling, and finished goods.
  • Square Inventory: A free, built-in feature of the Square POS ecosystem, perfect for small retailers and cafes that need basic, easy-to-use stock tracking.
  • QuickBooks: Offers inventory management capabilities directly within its accounting software, allowing businesses to track stock value and cost of goods sold in real-time
  • Adobe Commerce: An enterprise-level e-commerce platform with sophisticated, built-in inventory management for large-scale operations.

Track your inventory without spending big

How we select and assess software in our reviews

Our editorial team follows a transparent, repeatable methodology. Every review is based on our hands-on experience in realistic working scenarios, and we always stick to a set of consistent scoring criteria.
  • Features and functionality
  • Ease of use
  • Security, privacy, and compliance
  • Integrations and compatibility
  • Pricing and value
  • Support and community
Our team reviews and assesses tools using consistent datasets and real-world scenarios, focusing on the things users care about most—such as sales pipelines, marketing automation, collaboration, and knowledge management. We confirm the official pricing and release notes of each product we review, and gather user feedback from across different channels. We do not accept paid placements and ensure our reviews are completely unbiased and fair. Additionally, as software and digital work environments constantly evolve, we review our content at least quarterly and update articles whenever products undergo significant changes. For more information about our review methodology, read the full rundown of how we evaluate software at Lark.

Essential features of inventory management software

Let's take a look at the key features of a modern inventory management system that are essential for business operations.

1. Real-time inventory monitoring and tracking

Real-time monitoring and tracking are the foundation of effective inventory management. This feature provides instant visibility into current stock levels, pending orders, and inventory movements across all locations. When customers place orders or staff receive shipments, inventory levels update automatically, ensuring accurate information for decision-making.
Advanced systems also provide low stock alerts and notifications when inventory levels approach minimum thresholds, helping businesses avoid stockouts that can result in lost sales and disappointed customers.

2. Automated reorder points and purchase order generation

Automated reordering eliminates the guesswork from inventory replenishment. The system calculates optimal reorder points based on:
  • Lead times from vendors
  • Sales velocity and historical demand patterns
  • Safety stock requirements
  • Seasonal fluctuations
When inventory reaches the predetermined reorder point, the system can automatically generate purchase orders and send them to approved vendors, ensuring continuous availability without excessive carrying costs.

3. Barcode and QR code scanning capabilities

Barcode scanning dramatically improves accuracy and efficiency in inventory operations. Modern systems support various scanning technologies:
  • 1D barcodes for basic product identification
  • 2D QR codes that can store additional information like batch numbers and expiration dates
  • Mobile scanning using smartphones and tablets
  • Integration with handheld scanners for high-volume operations
This technology enables rapid receiving, picking, and cycle counting while virtually eliminating data entry errors.

4. Multi-location warehouse management

For businesses operating across multiple locations, advanced inventory software provides centralized control with location-specific visibility. Key capabilities include:
  • Transfer management between locations
  • Location-specific reorder points and vendor preferences
  • Consolidated reporting across all sites
  • Automated stock balancing to optimize inventory distribution
This functionality is crucial for retailers with multiple stores, distributors serving different regions, or manufacturers with multiple production facilities.

5. Demand forecasting and analytics dashboard

Advanced analytics transform historical data into actionable insights. Modern systems provide:
  • Demand forecasting based on sales trends, seasonality, and external factors
  • Performance dashboards showing key metrics like inventory turnover and carrying costs
  • ABC analysis to identify high-value items requiring closer management
  • Slow-moving inventory reports to reduce dead stock
These analytics help businesses optimize inventory levels, improve cash flow, and make data-driven purchasing decisions.

6. Mobile app access

Mobile access extends inventory management beyond the warehouse floor. Field teams can:
  • Check real-time stock availability while meeting with customers
  • Create sales orders and purchase orders on the go
  • Conduct cycle counts and inventory audits using mobile devices
  • Update inventory data from remote locations or service sites
This mobility ensures that all team members have access to current inventory information regardless of their location.

Manage your inventory effortlessly with Lark

Types of inventory management software

Understanding the different types of inventory management systems available will help you choose the solution that best fits your business model, technical requirements, and growth plans.

Cloud-based inventory management software vs. On-premise solutions

The choice between cloud-based and on-premise solutions represents one of the most fundamental decisions in selecting inventory software.
Cloud-based solutions offer several advantages:
  • Lower upfront costs with subscription-based pricing
  • Automatic updates and maintenance are handled by the vendor
  • Access from anywhere with internet connectivity
  • Easier scaling as business grows
  • Built-in data backup and disaster recovery
On-premise Solutions provide:
  • Greater control over data and security
  • Customization capabilities for specific business requirements
  • No ongoing subscription fees after initial purchase
  • Independence from internet connectivity for core operations
For most small businesses and growing companies, cloud-based solutions offer the best combination of affordability, functionality, and ease of use. However, large enterprises with specific security requirements or complex customization needs may prefer on-premise deployments.

Enterprise resource planning (ERP) integrated systems

ERP-integrated inventory modules provide seamless connectivity between inventory management and other business functions:
  • Financial integration for automatic cost of goods sold calculations and inventory valuation
  • Customer relationship management (CRM) connectivity for sales order processing
  • Human resources integration for labor cost tracking and productivity analysis
  • Production planning modules for manufacturing environments
While ERP systems offer comprehensive functionality, they typically require larger investments in software, implementation, and training compared to standalone solutions.

Standalone inventory software vs. All-in-one business solutions

Standalone inventory software offers:
  • Deep functionality specific to inventory management
  • Lower cost for businesses needing only inventory capabilities
  • Faster implementation and user adoption
  • Integration flexibility with existing systems
All-in-one business solutions provide:
  • Unified data across all business functions
  • Simplified vendor management with a single point of contact
  • Consistent user interface across all modules
  • Cost savings compared to multiple separate systems
The choice depends on your business complexity, existing software investments, and growth plans. However, if you're currently paying for multiple tools and looking to save costs, then an all-in-one solution is cost-effective.

Benefits of implementing inventory management software

The transition from manual or basic inventory tracking to sophisticated inventory management software delivers measurable benefits across multiple areas of business operations.

Reduction in carrying costs and dead stock

Effective inventory software helps businesses optimize stock levels, reducing the capital tied up in excess inventory. Key mechanisms include:
  • Automated reorder calculations that account for actual demand patterns rather than gut feelings
  • Demand forecasting that identifies seasonal trends and adjusts purchasing accordingly
  • Dead stock identification through aging reports and slow-moving inventory analysis
  • ABC analysis that focuses attention on high-value items with the greatest financial impact
By maintaining optimal inventory levels, businesses typically see 15-30% reductions in carrying costs, freeing up cash for other strategic investments.

Improved order accuracy and faster fulfillment times

Automation and real-time data significantly improve order processing efficiency:
  • Barcode scanning eliminates picking errors and speeds up fulfillment
  • Real-time inventory visibility prevents overselling and backorders
  • Optimized picking routes reduce travel time in warehouses
  • Automated shipping integration streamlines the fulfillment process
These improvements often result in 50% reductions in order processing time and significant decreases in shipping errors.
A computer screen displays a dashboard with real-time inventory analytics, showcasing performance metrics such as inventory levels, stock counts, and low stock alerts, designed to help businesses manage inventory efficiently across multiple locations. The interface features intuitive tools for tracking sales and controlling costs, essential for small businesses seeking to streamline their inventory management processes.

Enhanced visibility across your sales channels

Modern businesses sell through multiple channels, making inventory synchronization critical:
  • Unified inventory view across online marketplaces, retail stores, and wholesale channels
  • Automatic stock updates prevent overselling when inventory is sold through one channel
  • Channel-specific pricing and availability management
  • Centralized fulfillment optimization to reduce shipping costs
This visibility enables businesses to maximize sales opportunities while avoiding the customer service issues that arise from inventory discrepancies.

Automated compliance reporting for regulated industries

Industries subject to regulatory oversight benefit from automated compliance features:
  • Lot tracking for food safety and pharmaceutical regulations
  • Audit trails that document all inventory movements and changes
  • Expiration date monitoring to prevent the sale of expired products
  • Automated reporting for regulatory submissions
These features reduce compliance costs and minimize the risk of regulatory violations that can result in fines or business disruptions.

Better cash flow management through optimized stock levels

Inventory represents a significant investment for most businesses. Optimization directly impacts cash flow:
  • Reduced inventory investment through better demand planning
  • Faster inventory turnover by identifying and eliminating slow-moving stock
  • Improved supplier terms through more accurate demand forecasting and order planning
  • Reduced emergency purchases that often carry premium pricing

Reduction in manual errors and administrative time

Automation eliminates many time-consuming manual processes:
  • Automatic data entry from barcode scanning and system integrations
  • Reduced cycle counting requirements through perpetual inventory tracking
  • Automated reporting replaces manual spreadsheet preparation
  • Electronic purchase orders eliminate paper-based processes
Staff can focus on higher-value activities like vendor relationship management, process improvement, and customer service rather than data entry and record keeping.

Experience the benefits today with Lark

How to choose the right inventory management software

So you've decided you need a digital inventory management system, but don't know where to start. Fear not. Follow this systematic approach, which evaluates your needs, technical requirements, growth plans, and more to make the best decision for your business.

Assess your business size and growth projections

Your current business size and anticipated growth significantly influence software selection:
Small businesses (1-50 employees) typically need:
  • Simple, intuitive interfaces that require minimal training
  • Affordable subscription pricing with low monthly costs
  • Basic features like inventory tracking, reorder alerts, and simple reporting
  • Quick implementation without extensive customization
Mid-market businesses (50-500 employees) often require:
  • Multi-location support for warehouses, stores, or distribution centers
  • Advanced reporting and analytics capabilities
  • Integration with existing accounting and business systems
  • Role-based access control for different user types
Enterprise organizations (500+ employees) need:
  • Highly scalable systems that handle large transaction volumes
  • Extensive customization capabilities for unique business requirements
  • Enterprise-grade security and compliance features
Consider your growth trajectory over the next 3-5 years to avoid outgrowing your system too quickly.

Evaluate integration requirements with existing systems

You may already have software systems that you intend to keep. If that's the case, you need to evaluate whether the inventory tracking software can integrate with your existing systems. This may include:
Accounting software integration:
  • Automatic synchronization of inventory values and cost of goods sold
  • Integration with accounts payable for purchase order processing
  • Real-time financial reporting that includes current inventory valuations
E-commerce platform connectivity:
  • Automatic inventory updates across all sales channels
  • Order synchronization from online marketplaces and websites
  • Product catalog management across multiple platforms
Point-of-sale system integration:
  • Real-time inventory deduction with each sale
  • Customer order management and fulfillment tracking
  • Returns processing and inventory adjustment
Create a comprehensive list of your current systems and their integration requirements before evaluating software options. Alternatively, consider the cost benefits of choosing an all-in-one business solution where you can handle inventory, accounting, sales channels, and more in one place.

Consider scalability

While you may only be able to count your business locations on one hand, there's a good chance you'll want to expand the locations you operate if your business starts to accelerate. If that happens or you already have plans to expand in the future, you need a software solution that provides:
  • Unlimited location support without significant cost increases
  • Centralized management with location-specific controls and reporting
  • Inter-location transfers and inventory balancing capabilities
  • Consolidated vs. location-specific reporting options
Even if you currently operate from a single location, consider future expansion plans in your evaluation criteria.

Budget considerations: subscription vs. one-time licensing

Different pricing models have distinct advantages and implications:
Subscription-based pricing (Software as a Service):
  • Lower upfront costs and predictable monthly expenses
  • Automatic updates and new feature access
  • Included hosting, backup, and technical support
  • Easier to scale up or down based on changing needs
One-time licensing (On-premise):
  • Higher initial investment, but no ongoing subscription fees
  • Full ownership and control of the software
  • Requires internal IT resources for maintenance and updates
  • May need additional costs for support, updates, and hosting
Consider your cash flow preferences, internal technical capabilities, and total cost of ownership over 3-5 years.

Team training and onboarding requirements

Inventory management software comes in different shapes and sizes. Some are easy to get started with, while others can be overwhelming for some teams.
Factors to evaluate:
  • Interface design and user-friendliness
  • Available training resources
  • Support for different user skill levels
  • Mobile access for field users who may be less tech-savvy
Training considerations:
  • Time required to train existing staff
  • Ongoing training needs for new employees
  • Support availability during initial implementation
  • User adoption strategies to ensure successful rollout

Customer Support

There's nothing worse than spending big on a product or service and realizing the customer support is garbage. Based on my experience, having a reliable support team when you're struggling to use tools and features is crucial.
Support evaluation criteria:
  • Response time guarantees for different severity issues
  • Support channel availability (phone, email, chat, online resources)
  • Technical expertise of support staff
  • Availability of professional services for implementation and customization

Final thoughts on inventory management software

Choosing the right inventory management software solution is a critical step for modern businesses. Modern systems go beyond basic tracking, offering real-time synchronization, automated reordering, advanced analytics, and seamless integration with other business platforms. While implementation can be challenging, these issues are manageable with proper planning and comprehensive training.
The key is to select a system that aligns with your specific business needs and growth goals. For businesses looking to maximize efficiency and consolidate their tools, an all-in-one platform like Lark presents a compelling solution. Instead of just managing stock, Lark integrates inventory control directly with the collaboration tools your team uses for communication, approvals, and reporting.
Switch from manual spreadsheets and disconnected apps to boost efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance team collaboration.
The benefits of using Lark

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FAQs about inventory management software

What is the best small business inventory management software?

Lark is a great option for small businesses. It's easy to use and comes with all the tools you need to not only manage inventory, but also collaborate and manage other business operations. Lark's plans are also very straightforward. The free forever plan is suitable for teams with fewer than 20 members, and paid plans start at only $6 per month.

Is free inventory management software really free?

Yes, there is some very good software that is completely free if you know where to look. Lark's free plan, for example, includes 11+ tools for inventory management, messaging, approval, meetings, and many more. It even comes with 100 GB of storage, 1000 automation runs, and supports up to 20 users.

Can I use Excel for inventory management?

Yes, you can use Excel for inventory management, and it can be a good starting point for those with simple needs. However, Excel lacks real-time updates and is prone to human error, making it a poor choice for the vast majority of businesses. For an alternative that is even easier to use and without any cost, try Lark.

Can QuickBooks do inventory management?

Yes, QuickBooks has built-in inventory management features that are suitable for most small to medium-sized businesses. It can track inventory levels in real-time, generate purchase orders, and provide reports on sales and stock value.

Does Google have an inventory management system?

No, Google does not have a native inventory management system. However, you can use Google Sheets with templates or third-party add-ons from the Google Workspace Marketplace to create a basic, collaborative inventory tracking system.

What's the best inventory monitoring system?

The top inventory management software depends on your business size, industry, and specific needs. There isn't a single "best" solution for everyone. However, some top-rated options include Lark, NetSuite, Fishbowl, and Zoho Inventory.

What is MRO inventory?

MRO inventory stands for Maintenance, Repair, and Operations inventory. It includes all the supplies, parts, and equipment a company needs to run its business, but these items are not sold to customers. Examples include office supplies, janitorial materials, and spare parts for machinery.

Does Microsoft Office have an inventory management system?

No, Microsoft Office does not come with a dedicated inventory management system. Similar to Google, you can use Excel to manually track inventory or use third-party applications available on the Microsoft AppSource marketplace that integrate with products like Microsoft Dynamics 365 and SharePoint.

Which inventory management software has the best reviews?

Inventory management software reviews vary based on use cases and user needs. However, according to our list of tools, Lark has the highest score when you take the average of reviews on Gartner, G2, and Capterra, three of the most well-respected review sites around.

Related reading

Owyn Thomas Kerr

Lark Content Manager

Owyn is a Content Manager with 6 years of experience in SaaS. He creates case studies, blog posts, and web copy that make complex products easy to understand. Outside of work, he enjoys photography and movie nights with friends.

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