MedTech Field Inventory Automation & Case Management: Buy or Build?

Buy or Build? When it comes to specialized software solutions, that is always the key question.

In some industries, building it yourself and having the IT team turn into a software company might make sense. With implant medical device field inventory, it doesn’t—and so far, in-house solutions have never delivered on the key results promised.

Following the failure of the main project, the typical next step is to divide the “solution” into manageable parts, so there is one tool for consignment, another for case management (like a CRM), another for audits, and another for loaners, etc. This forces the scenario where multiple, poorly-connected systems are attempting to operationalize what should be done in one tool.

This disconnectedness causes a whole bunch of additional inefficiencies, errors, and extra work for everyone involved. For implant medical device companies, the smartest choice is to partner with someone who has done it before and can do it again.

Most in-house built systems for field inventory management and automation fail due to a few important reasons:

1. Lack of Specialization:

In-house systems may have some of the specialized features they think they need, but usually the full capabilities specifically designed for the unique challenges of medical device field inventory management are missing. Movemedical, for example, offers specialized solutions that are tailored to address all of the complexities of managing medical device inventory, including consignment, bill-only, kitting, transfers, audits, and loaner processes.

2. Scalability Issues:

In-house built systems often struggle to scale with the growth of the company, struggling even to just add on a new division or business unit. As inventory and transaction volumes increase, these systems may become inefficient or unable to handle the increased load, which leads to performance issues and bottlenecks. With each addition of new product lines, business units, or divisions, the initial functionality needs to be able to scale with the new processes required.

3. Integration Challenges:

Integrating in-house systems with other enterprise systems (e.g., ERP, CRM) can be technically difficult and resource-intensive. Movemedical’s platform is designed to integrate seamlessly with existing systems, ensuring smooth data flow and reduced risk of errors. More than just sharing data, true integrations trigger real-world work to happen, and drive automation.

4. Maintenance and Upgrades:

Too much downtime is debilitating to business! Maintaining and upgrading in-house systems requires continuous investments of time, labor, and resources. Companies that do not primarily specialize in software may find it challenging to keep the system updated with the latest features and security measures, leading to outdated processes, vulnerabilities, and liabilities.

5. Limited Analytics and Reporting:

In-house systems do not collect the required passive data, nor offer the advanced analytics and reporting capabilities, that support effective decision-making. Movemedical provides comprehensive analytics and insights, enabling companies to optimize inventory levels, forecast demand, and improve overall operational efficiency.

6. Compliance Risks:

Ensuring compliance with industry regulations and standards can be challenging with in-house systems. Movemedical’s solutions are designed and maintained with compliance in mind, helping companies adhere to regulatory requirements and reduce the risk of non-compliance.

7. Resource Allocation:

Developing and maintaining an in-house system diverts resources away from the core business activities. Companies may find it more beneficial to leverage specialized solutions like Movemedical that allow them to focus on their primary objectives without the distraction of  becoming a software company and managing too many convoluted IT projects.

8. Lack of Expert Support:

In-house system teams lack the dedicated support and expertise available from specialized SaaS providers. Movemedical offers industry backed best practices, along with expert support and guidance, ensuring that companies can effectively address challenges and maximize the benefits of their field inventory management system.

Managing and automating medical device field inventory is hard. Trying to do it with the wrong tool makes it harder. Using in-house tools makes it almost impossible. These factors listed above contribute to the difficulties and inefficiencies associated with in-house built systems for field inventory management and automation. The most advanced and leading companies seek specialized, external solutions like Movemedical, which is designed and built to overcome the unique variables found only in the medical device last-mile for inventory and sales operations.

If you can relate to the struggle of attempting to build a solution in-house, Movemedical’s industry experience and expertise can help your business—let’s talk.

Contact us here:  info@movemedical.com  / call 877.469.3992 or watch this VIDEO (executive case study)