In the building materials industry, quoting accuracy and speed are paramount for winning business and maintaining margins. Distributors and suppliers face the choice between automated quoting systems and manual quote creation. Understanding when to use each approach—and how to blend them effectively—can optimize sales workflows and improve customer satisfaction.
The Case for Automated Quoting
Automated quoting leverages ERP-integrated tools to generate quotes quickly based on real-time pricing, inventory, tariffs, and discount rules. Benefits include:
Speed: Quotes are generated instantly, accelerating sales cycles.
Accuracy: Automated calculations reduce errors and ensure pricing compliance.
Consistency: Uniform pricing and discount application uphold margin standards.
Scalability: Handles large volumes of quote requests efficiently.
Automated quoting works best for standard materials, repeat customers, and straightforward orders where pricing variables are well-defined.
The Role of Manual Quoting
Manual quoting involves personalized input from sales or pricing teams to tailor quotes. This method suits scenarios such as:
Custom or complex orders: Specialty products or unique project requirements.
Negotiation-based pricing: Strategic discounting or volume-based offers.
New customer onboarding: Customized terms or initial relationship building.
Adjusting for unusual tariff or cost fluctuations not yet reflected in automated systems.
Manual quoting allows flexibility and relationship-driven selling but can be slower and prone to inconsistencies without controls.
Finding the Right Balance
Combining both methods maximizes efficiency and flexibility:
Use automated quoting as the default for speed and consistency.
Flag exceptions requiring manual review through approval workflows in systems like Buildix ERP.
Empower sales teams with mobile tools to create or adjust quotes on the go, blending automation with expert judgment.
Continuously update automated pricing models with insights gained from manual quote experiences.
How Buildix ERP Supports Hybrid Quoting
Buildix ERP integrates automated quoting modules with configurable manual override capabilities and robust approval workflows. It provides centralized quote tracking, ensuring visibility and control across all quoting methods.
Conclusion
Choosing between automated and manual quoting is not an either/or decision. Building material distributors in Canada benefit from a hybrid approach that leverages automation for efficiency while allowing manual flexibility for complex deals. With ERP solutions like Buildix, companies can implement a balanced quoting strategy that drives speed, accuracy, and customer satisfaction.
