3 Easy and Simple Ways to Keep Track of Your Sales in 2024

Published: May 8, 2024

In the big world of business, knowing what's going on with your sales is extremely important. So, as we step into the year 2024, let us look into 3 super easy ways to keep an eye on your sales. From the old-fashioned way with a pen and paper to using a cool app like Peddlr that does a bunch of business-related functions, we've got options that fit all kinds of business owners.

1. Manual – The Old-School Method: Pen and Paper

a person who tracks and monitors sales using pen and paper 

Starting off with the most classic way – tracking your business using pen and paper. This may seem very traditional, but this process of sales tracking remains useful and unmatched for many businesses, especially those that are run by old entrepreneurs. You may ask “how does this work?” You write down each sale, and it's as simple as that. In this pen and paper process, details such as the customer's name, the items bought, and the price for each product can be tallied. 

However, here's the catch: it's a bit slow, especially if you have lots of sales coming in. Sometimes, mistakes or human errors can also happen when tracking with pen and paper. Errors like missing an item in the list or missing a whole order from a customer are examples. 

Despite these challenges, many businesses value the simplicity and personal touch of the manual approach, especially when dealing with uncomplicated sales processes. It's perfect for smaller businesses that like to keep things simple and cost friendly.

ProsCons
  • Super simple and cheap.
  • No need for fancy gadgets.
  • Great for small, chill businesses.
  • Can be slow for lots of sales.
  • Mistakes might sneak in.
  • Not the best for bigger businesses.



2. Automatic – Easy and Mobile-based Sales Tracking with Peddlr App

a person using an automatic point of sale (pos) system to track sales

In this era of digitization and technology, businesses can benefit a lot from using a dedicated point-of-sale (POS) system as a sales tracker. Using a comprehensive yet user-friendly POS app like Peddlr can be a big help in reaching your business goal. It is like having a smart friend helping you out with your sales and inventory in your store. 

This app does not only track sales, but also, combines all POS capabilities with inventory management, reporting, and all other business tracking. With a few clicks on your mobile phone, it easily automizes your approach in doing business and minimizes errors due to manual tracking of sales.

How POS systems work? Every time there is a sale or an order from a customer, the person in charge will just need to punch or input the order in the system through barcode scanning or by clicking the items on the screen. Afterwards, the complete list of items and total bill will show up for faster reconciliation and payment of the customer.

Unlike other POS systems available in the market, Peddlr App can be used by businesses for free! It has no hidden charges and can seamlessly be downloaded in mobile devices. It also works without the internet so not having connection will never be a problem.

For all POS systems, whether it is Peddlr or others, there is an initial setup and learning curve associated in using them. However, the benefits in terms of efficiency, accuracy, and scalability make it a valuable investment for businesses of all sizes.

ProsCons
  • Tracks sales and stock super fast.
  • Almost impossible to have human error.
  • Good for all kinds of businesses.
  • Helps you plan for the future.
  • Takes a bit to learn how it works.
  • Requires initial set up of products


a picture showing a mobile application called peddlr that functions as a pos system or sales tracker

Read this to know more about Peddlr App and how to use it as a POS system, sales tracker and inventory management tool: https://www.peddlr.io/blog/post/peddlr-the-best-mobile-pos-system-for-micro-small-and-medium-businesses

You may also read on other POS systems or sales tracker available in the market here: https://www.peddlr.io/blog/post/best-pos-providers-small-and-medium-businesses-philippines


3. ManuMatic – Mixing Old and New with Excel or Google Sheets

a sales person using excel or google sheets to record or track sales


Now, if you want a bit of old mixed with the new, say hello to the ManuMatic way. ManuMatic is a word play that came from the words “manual” and ”automatic.” It's like doing things by hand, but with the help of a computer or a software. You may use Excel or Google Sheets to create your own special sheet for tracking sales. It is organized, way faster than pen and paper, and you can do some basic data analysis and reporting. While it is better than the traditional pen-and-paper method, it still relies on human input for data entry, leaving room for errors and mistakes.

This method is suitable for businesses that want a middle-ground solution, providing a bridge between the familiarity of manual tracking and the benefits of automation. However, for those wishing for a comprehensive sales tracker with advanced inventory management features, the automatic approach still wins.

ProsCons
  • Faster than pen and paper.
  • Can do basic numerical analysis and reporting.
  • Good for medium businesses.
  • Requires manual typing and tracking.
  • May be prone to human errors.
  • Requires some computer skills.


Wrapping Up

In this evolving year of 2024, businesses must carefully select a sales tracking method that feels right with their business size, needs, and preferences. Whether you are into the cozy pen and paper approach, a mix of old and new with ManuMatic method, or the easy and automatic POS system like the Peddlr app, there is something for everyone. Each method has its own unique strengths and considerations but the key is to find what suits you best sales tracking method so you can make the best and informed decisions for your business growth and future.


What is Peddlr? 

Peddlr is a POS mobile application for all business owners – sari-sari stores, milk tea stands, coffee shops, Shopee and Lazada sellers and more. It's free to download, free to use, and works even without an internet connection. With Peddlr, you can easily manage and track your business performance and inventory. 

Here are some of the useful features that you can access through the Peddlr app: 

  • FREE Point-of-sale system (POS) or a mobile cashier system 

  • FREE Credit Reminder – send SMS to your customers for free to collect credit/debts easily 

  • FREE Inventory Manager/Tracker - take control of your product inventory 

  • Loading and Bills Payment Services – enjoy rebates and cashback 

A black and white sign with white text 
Description automatically generatedA black background with a black square 
Description automatically generatedA black and white sign with white text 
Description automatically generated