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Amy Spiezio

There’s a handy tool for checking inventory that’s right at your fingertips. You may even be using it several times a day or during your free time without realizing how helpful it can be in your business life. What is this key to inventory success? It’s your computer. While many practices have computerized inventory systems that provide a clear picture of what is moving and what is not, there are avenues beyond these programs that can give you insights on your products from the consumer’s perspective.

In this month’s frame technology article, ClearVision Optical’s Sheila Haile notes that eyecare professionals can track what’s going on at their websites for insights on their patients. “It lets the doctor know what should be in the dispensary.” If patients are consistently looking at specific brands and styles and colors on the website, it’s an excellent indication that they are interested in buying those styles and your board should shift to meet these interests.

Those insights aren’t limited to your practice website, either. If your practice has a Facebook page, try posting a frame of the day or repost brand-specific images and information from the manufacturers with which you work. Every “like” is a sales lead and an inventory director. If you’re on Twitter, retweet the latest styles from awards shows and the red carpet to see what gets the biggest buzz from your followers.