10 Best Cannabis Supply Chain Management Apps 2024

Looking to streamline your cannabis business operations? Here’s a quick overview of the top supply chain management apps for 2024:

BioTrack – Comprehensive seed-to-sale tracking
Distru – Real-time inventory and order management
Canix – Cultivation-focused ERP system
Flowhub – Retail-centric POS and inventory
Prelude – AI-powered inventory optimization
MJ Freeway – Pioneer in seed-to-sale tracking
Elevated Signals – Quality management and compliance
IndicaOnline – Dispensary POS with delivery features
Metrc – Government-mandated traceability system
Headset – Market analytics and sales tracking

Quick Comparison

App	Key Feature	Best For	Starting Price
BioTrack	Full vertical integration	Multi-state operators	Custom quote
Distru	Real-time inventory	Distributors	Custom quote
Canix	Cultivation management	Growers	$279/month
Flowhub	Retail POS	Dispensaries	$499/month
Prelude	AI inventory optimization	Retailers	Custom quote
MJ Freeway	Seed-to-sale tracking	Vertically integrated	Custom quote
Elevated Signals	Quality record-keeping	Producers	Custom quote
IndicaOnline	Delivery management	Delivery services	$249/month
Metrc	Government compliance	All license types	$0.25/RFID tag
Headset	Market analytics	Brands & retailers	Custom quote

These apps help cannabis businesses track inventory, stay compliant, and make data-driven decisions. The right choice depends on your specific needs, budget, and operational focus. Consider factors like ease of use, scalability, and integration capabilities when selecting an app for your cannabis supply chain.

What is Cannabis Supply Chain Management?

Cannabis supply chain management covers the journey of cannabis products from seed to sale. It’s a complex process involving cultivation, manufacturing, testing, distribution, and retail.

Here’s a breakdown of the key stages:

1. Cultivation

This stage involves growing and harvesting cannabis plants. It requires:

Careful monitoring of growing conditions
Adherence to strict regulations
Use of specialized equipment and techniques

2. Manufacturing

After harvesting, cannabis is processed into various products:

Dried flowers
Extracts and oils
Edibles
Topical creams

3. Testing

Before reaching consumers, cannabis products undergo rigorous testing to ensure safety and quality. This typically happens at two points:

Before sale
After sale (for ongoing quality control)

4. Distribution

Getting products from manufacturers to retailers involves:

Warehousing
Transportation logistics
Inventory management

5. Retail

The final stage where products reach consumers through dispensaries or online platforms.

Each of these stages presents unique challenges:

Stage	Key Challenges
Cultivation	Sourcing raw materials, optimizing growing conditions
Manufacturing	Efficiency, product consistency
Testing	Meeting state-specific safety standards
Distribution	Logistics, inventory management
Retail	Marketing, customer satisfaction

Overarching all these stages is the need for strict regulatory compliance. The cannabis industry faces complex and changing regulations across different states.

Technology plays a big role in addressing these challenges. For example:

IoT devices monitor crop health and growing conditions in real-time
AI analyzes data to predict market trends and optimize harvest schedules
Blockchain technology enhances transparency and traceability

One company tackling these challenges is DIZPOT. They’ve developed DIZLOGIC, a software tool for managing international packaging shipments and preventing supply chain disruptions.

John Hartsell, CEO and Co-Founder of DIZPOT, notes:

"Technology is expanding and evolving to meet the needs of the cannabis industry to include RFID for risk management and marketing, software to track the supply chain, and machines to automate filling."

For cannabis businesses, using the right supply chain management tools is key. These apps help:

Track products from seed to sale
Ensure compliance with state-specific regulations
Streamline operations and reduce manual work
Provide data-driven insights for better decision-making

As the industry grows, with sales reaching $26 billion in 2022, effective supply chain management becomes even more critical for success.

Must-Have Features in Cannabis Supply Chain Apps

When choosing a cannabis supply chain management app, certain features are essential for smooth operations and regulatory compliance. Here are the key tools to look for:

Real-Time Inventory Tracking

Accurate inventory management is crucial. Apps should offer:

Live stock level updates
Batch and lot tracking
Automated alerts for low stock

For example, Distru allows cultivators to monitor plants from seed to harvest and track raw material inventory levels.

Compliance Management

Cannabis businesses must adhere to strict regulations. Look for apps that provide:

Automated compliance tracking
Integration with state track-and-trace systems (e.g., Metrc, BioTrack)
Customizable reporting for regulatory submissions

Order Processing

Efficient order management streamlines operations. Key features include:

Order fulfillment tools
Invoicing capabilities
Shipping and logistics management

Production Tracking

For manufacturers, production monitoring is vital. Seek apps offering:

Recipe management
Batch tracking
Cost analysis tools

Reporting and Analytics

Data-driven insights help improve business performance. Apps should provide:

Customizable dashboards
Sales trend analysis
Inventory performance metrics

System Integration

Connectivity with other business tools is essential. Look for apps that:

Offer open APIs
Integrate with point-of-sale systems
Connect with accounting software

Mobile Accessibility

On-the-go management is increasingly important. Choose apps with:

Mobile-friendly interfaces
Real-time updates across devices
Offline functionality

By prioritizing these features, cannabis businesses can better manage their supply chain, ensure compliance, and make informed decisions based on real-time data.

"We’re relieved to have replaced our previous in-house process with Cova’s new inventory management features that allow us to update our stock in real-time, making it the first POS of its kind." – Nicole Wharton, Inventory METRC Compliance Manager, Cookies

This quote highlights the importance of real-time inventory updates in cannabis supply chain management, a feature that should be at the top of your list when selecting an app.

1. BioTrack

BioTrack stands out as a top-tier cannabis supply chain management app, offering a comprehensive seed-to-sale solution for businesses across the industry. Here’s what makes BioTrack a standout choice:

Key Features

Full Vertical Integration: BioTrack is the only software that integrates with all METRC state systems, covering the entire cannabis lifecycle.
Flexible Hosting: Choose between locally hosted or cloud-based server options to suit your business needs.
Advanced Security: Two-factor authentication and password encryption protect your sensitive data.
Customizable Reporting: Over 100 report templates, plus a SQL report designer for advanced users.

Compliance Made Easy

BioTrack automates compliance tracking and reporting, saving time and reducing errors. The system integrates with:

Leaf Data Systems
BioTrack government traceability system
Various state-specific track-and-trace systems

Precision Inventory Management

BioTrack’s inventory tracking goes down to the milligram, ensuring:

Accurate stock levels
Detailed batch and lot tracking
Automated low stock alerts

Multi-Location Support

For businesses operating across different areas, BioTrack offers:

Centralized management of multiple locations
Customized labeling for each jurisdiction
Tailored reporting for different regulatory requirements

User Feedback

"With BioTrackTHC it is comforting knowing that you have a support system behind the program. Biotrack has been there since the beginning of our operation and has provided great customer support as our business has continued to grow and evolve in all aspects including training, pointers on compliance, and answering any questions that may come up in a quick and professional manner." – Nancy Drinkard, Inventory Sales Manager, Grow Op Farms and Phat Panda.

Pricing

BioTrack’s pricing starts at $50 per month, making it an affordable option for businesses of various sizes.

Global Reach

BioTrack’s cannabis software is used in:

38 U.S. states
Puerto Rico
Multiple countries including Canada, Colombia, Australia, and South Africa

2. Distru

Distru stands out as a powerful cannabis supply chain management app, offering a comprehensive seed-to-sale solution for businesses across the industry. This cloud-based platform caters to midsize and enterprise-level cannabis cultivators, processors, manufacturers, and distributors.

Key Features

Full Supply Chain Coverage: Distru manages every aspect from cultivation to final sale, ensuring efficiency at each stage.
Metrc Integration: Real-time, two-way inventory synchronization with Metrc simplifies compliance reporting.
Multi-Device Accessibility: Available on web-based systems, iOS, Android, Windows, and Mac.

Streamlined Operations

Distru’s ERP system centralizes:

Inventory management
Order fulfillment
Sales tracking
Distribution logistics

This integration allows teams to work from a single interface, eliminating the need for multiple spreadsheets and improving coordination between sales and operations.

Compliance Made Easy

Distru’s Metrc-synced system is designed to address the unique compliance challenges in the cannabis industry:

Automated tracking from seed to sale
Real-time updates to regulatory systems
Contingency plans for Metrc outages

During Metrc downtime, Distru’s web browser extension allows users to continue working offline, syncing changes once the system is back online.

Tailored Solutions

Business Type	Distru Features
Cultivators	Plant tracking from seed to harvest, growth stage monitoring
Manufacturers	Batch tracking, recipe management, production run monitoring
Distributors	Multi-location inventory management, real-time shipment tracking
Retailers	POS integration, inventory forecasting, customer relationship management

User Experience

The Distru team emphasizes a no-nonsense approach, stating:

"Distru is a no-bullsh*t software solution for cannabis manufacturers and distributors."

This straightforward attitude extends to their customer service, with a commitment to respond to user inquiries within five minutes.

3. Canix

Canix is a powerful ERP software built for the cannabis industry. It helps cultivators, manufacturers, and distributors manage their operations efficiently while staying compliant with regulations.

Key features of Canix include:

Real-time inventory tracking
Automated compliance reporting
Financial management tools
Cultivation and harvest management
Sales and distribution tracking

Canix has made a significant impact in the industry:

Metric	Value
Facilities using Canix	650+
States covered	23
Countries served	6
Total order value processed	$500+ million
Harvests managed	100,000+

The software’s integration capabilities set it apart. Canix connects with:

Accounting software (QuickBooks)
Hardware (RFID scanners, barcode readers, scales)
Transportation systems
Analytics tools
Government compliance systems (like Metrc)

This allows users to build a custom tech stack tailored to their specific needs.

Pricing for Canix varies based on business size:

Business Size	Monthly Cost
Small operators	$200 – $500
Medium operations	$500+
Large vertical operations	$1,000+

Users praise Canix for its user-friendly interface and time-saving features. A Director of Warehouse Operations stated:

"Canix has allowed us to send orders that are easily received by our customers."

Ladybug Farms, an early adopter, shared their experience:

"We’ve been fortunate to be an early adopter of Canix. Seeing the application and software flourish in that time has been great to observe as a customer and has saved Ladybug Farms and our group 1000’s of hours and an immense amount of compliance related costs with the mobile and desktop system."

While Canix offers many benefits, users have reported some drawbacks:

Occasional bugs, particularly with tag number recognition
Some UI elements can be counterintuitive
Functionality limited to basic Metrc functions

Despite these issues, Canix remains a top choice for many cannabis businesses due to its comprehensive feature set and industry-specific design.

4. Flowhub

Flowhub stands out as a cannabis retail platform built from the ground up for dispensaries. Its point-of-sale system, Maui™, serves as the central hub for cannabis retail operations.

Key features of Flowhub include:

Flowhub Pay®: Allows debit card transactions, boosting revenue
Mobile apps: Greet® for check-ins, Stash® for inventory, and View® for analytics
Customizable platform: Adapts to various retail environments
Automated compliance reporting: Ensures adherence to state regulations

Flowhub’s impact on cannabis retail is evident:

Metric	Value
Dispensary customers	1,000+
States covered	Multiple
Funding raised	$23 million (Series A)

The platform’s user-friendly interface has garnered praise from industry professionals:

"Flowhub Maui ran flawlessly across all locations on our biggest day of the year. I’m grateful we switched prior to 4/20." – Mitch Britten, Managing Partner and CEO, Thrive Marketplace

Flowhub’s pricing structure is as follows:

Cost Type	Price Range
Monthly fee	$600 – $1,500+ per store
Onboarding	$1,000 – $2,000+

Recent updates to Flowhub include:

Multi-room drawer assignments
Drop trigger balance notifications
Visible current drawer balance in sidebar and drawers table
New "Pay In" option for adding money to drawers

While Flowhub offers many benefits, users should consider:

The learning curve for new staff
The need for hardware to ensure compliance
Potential costs for additional features or integrations

Flowhub’s focus on data-driven improvements is clear. The company uses in-app guidance to refine user experience, as noted by Nico Lewis, Product Manager at Flowhub:

"This allows us to continually optimize our platform and bring new enhancements to market that will actually serve our customers in the way they need."

For cannabis retailers looking to streamline operations and stay compliant, Flowhub presents a strong option in the supply chain management app market.

5. Prelude

Prelude stands out as an AI-powered supply chain solution tailored for the cannabis industry. Founded in 2021 by Michael E. Murphy and Andrew Copp, this Brooklyn-based startup aims to tackle common inventory challenges faced by dispensaries.

Key features of Prelude include:

Automated purchasing and insights
Unified data across businesses
Optimization of revenue and inventory levels

The impact of Prelude on cannabis businesses is clear:

Metric	Improvement
Sales increase	Up to 10%
Gross profit increase	10-20%
Inventory reduction	20-30%

Prelude’s effectiveness is evident in real-world applications. Green Dragon, a cannabis dispensary, experienced:

Dramatic increases in gross profit
Reduced capital tied up in inventory
Faster ordering processes
Fewer manual errors

Glenn Strandridge, Owner of Green Dragon LA, shared his experience:

"Prelude’s ability to create immediate impact is incredible. A game-changer."

Prelude’s recent $5.2 million seed funding, led by Rackhouse Ventures and Casa Verde in November 2023, highlights its potential in the cannabis supply chain management space.

For dispensaries looking to improve their operations, Prelude offers:

Quick data connection using Metrc API key
Review of purchase orders based on sales and inventory trends
Comprehensive analysis across retail and warehouse data

While Prelude shows promise, users should consider:

The learning curve for new staff
Potential costs for additional features or integrations
The need for consistent data input for optimal results

As the cannabis industry evolves, Prelude’s AI-driven approach to supply chain management positions it as a strong contender in the market.

6. MJ Freeway

MJ Freeway stands out as a key player in cannabis supply chain management. Founded in 2010, this Denver-based company pioneered the concept of "seed-to-sale" tracking in the cannabis industry.

MJ Freeway’s main product, MJ Platform, offers:

Cloud-based software for cannabis, hemp, and CBD businesses
Comprehensive tracking from cultivation to point-of-sale
Inventory management and compliance reporting
Integration with state track-and-trace systems

The platform’s features go beyond basic tracking:

Feature	Benefit
Cultivation management	Optimize grow operations
Patient management	Streamline customer data
Business intelligence tools	Real-time performance insights
Open API	Connect with other business tools

MJ Freeway’s impact is clear:

Used by over 2,000 businesses globally
Supports multi-state and multi-country operations
Enables businesses to track every gram from seed to sale

However, the company has faced challenges. In 2017, cyber attacks led to system outages and data issues for clients. MJ Freeway responded by:

Moving to Amazon Web Services
Hiring a third-party security firm for ongoing audits

Despite these setbacks, MJ Freeway continues to grow. In 2023, it merged with BioTrack under parent company Alleaves, expanding its portfolio of state contracts.

Moe Afaneh, Chief Operating Officer of Alleaves, noted:

"Obviously there’s a lot of similarities between the BioTrack and the MJ Freeway teams."

This merger positions MJ Freeway to compete in new markets, especially as states move away from RFID requirements for track-and-trace systems.

For cannabis businesses considering MJ Freeway:

Pros:
- Comprehensive seed-to-sale tracking
- Integrates with existing POS hardware
- Supports multi-state operations
Cons:
- Past security issues
- Some users report bugs and reliability concerns

When evaluating MJ Freeway, businesses should:

Assess their specific tracking and compliance needs
Consider the platform’s integration capabilities
Weigh the benefits against potential reliability concerns

As the cannabis industry continues to evolve, MJ Freeway’s role in shaping supply chain management remains clear.

7. Elevated Signals

Elevated Signals stands out in the cannabis supply chain management space by focusing on compliance record-keeping and operational efficiency. The software replaces traditional paper-based systems and legacy software with a fully digital platform.

Key features of Elevated Signals include:

EU-GMP & cGMP verified software
Inventory management
Quality record-keeping
Environmental data tracking
Open API for integration with other tools

Many cannabis producers have reported significant time savings after implementing Elevated Signals. For example, complex manufacturing batches that once took hours can now be completed in under 35 minutes.

The software’s impact on operations is clear:

Benefit	Description
Time Savings	Reduces paperwork and reporting time
Compliance	Ensures all required records are complete and easily searchable
Scalability	Grows with production needs
Data Analysis	Enables real-time optimization of production

Users have praised Elevated Signals for its user-friendly interface and top-notch customer support. Michael Inman, Director of Marketing, noted:

"Since switching to the software we’ve seen significant operational improvements across the business and a huge reduction in the time spent on paperwork and reporting."

For cannabis businesses considering Elevated Signals, here are some key points:

The software is designed for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)
It offers a comprehensive solution for inventory, quality, and environmental data management
The pricing model is not publicly available, so interested businesses should contact Elevated Signals directly

While Elevated Signals has received high marks from users, with average ratings of 8.6 for ease of use and 10 for meeting requirements, businesses should carefully assess their specific needs before making a decision.

8. IndicaOnline

IndicaOnline offers a full-stack dispensary POS software tailored for cannabis supply chain management. The platform focuses on automated compliance and enhanced sales efficiency, making it a strong contender in the industry.

Key features of IndicaOnline include:

Inventory management
Driver tracking and route optimization
Patient/physician verification
Customer management
Compliance reporting

One of IndicaOnline’s standout features is its Retail ID integration with Metrc. This feature employs serialized QR codes for item-level identification, providing improved supply chain visibility and compliance. The integration saves time and reduces errors:

Benefit	Impact
Time savings	60 seconds per item
Annual labor savings	~2,000 hours per retailer
Compliance	Real-time access to product information

IndicaOnline’s delivery software package has also seen major improvements. The Dispatcher Mode and Driver App work together to streamline operations:

Live traffic updates
Route optimization
Flexible order reassignment
Real-time order tracking

For businesses looking to scale, IndicaOnline has proven its worth. As one user shared:

"We used IndicaOnline for over 7 years and loved it. We expanded from a small delivery service to managing over 500 drivers, 150 vehicles and 2 storefront locations."

The platform’s ease of use is another selling point. New employees can typically be trained on the system in less than an hour, allowing for quick onboarding and minimal disruption to operations.

IndicaOnline also offers an offline mode, ensuring business continuity during internet outages. All data is stored locally and sent to Metrc once the connection is restored.

For dispensaries considering IndicaOnline, it’s worth noting that the platform integrates with popular e-commerce platforms like Weedmaps and Leafly, enhancing online shopping experiences for customers.

To get a feel for how IndicaOnline can fit into your operations, scheduling a demo is recommended. This allows you to see the software in action and understand how features like taxes, discounts, and inventory management can be set up for your specific needs.

9. Metrc

Metrc, short for Marijuana Enforcement Tracking Reporting & Compliance, is a leading track-and-trace system in the cannabis industry. It’s the go-to solution for 23 states across the U.S., making it a key player in cannabis supply chain management.

Metrc’s main strength lies in its comprehensive tracking capabilities. The system uses RFID technology to monitor cannabis products from seed to sale, ensuring complete visibility throughout the supply chain. This level of detail helps businesses stay compliant with state regulations and provides valuable data for operational decision-making.

Key features of Metrc include:

Unique identifiers for each plant and package
RFID-enabled tags for accurate tracking
Integration with state compliance programs
Compatibility with various cannabis business software

Metrc’s impact on the industry is substantial:

Metric	Value
Total events logged	139,116,342,02
Total value of sales tracked	$72,599,464,271
States using Metrc	23

The system’s effectiveness is evident in user feedback. An Inventory Controller at High Life Farms stated:

"There would be no possible way to manage our cultivation facility of 18,000+ plants without a system like Metrc. It’s more than just a requirement, it’s one of my favorite tools to use because it gives us the visibility we need to run our business efficiently."

For businesses operating in Metrc-mandated states, integration is crucial. Dispensaries must sync their inventory and point-of-sale systems with Metrc to maintain compliance. Additionally, employees need to complete Metrc’s free virtual orientation program.

While Metrc offers many benefits, it’s worth noting some cost considerations:

Retail-only cannabis businesses pay $40 annually for a license
Additional fees based on inventory size and data uploads
Growers and processors pay for each Metrc tag used

Metrc’s role extends beyond just business operations. It helps state regulators track sales, understand tax implications, and monitor consumption patterns. In cases of product recalls, Metrc’s detailed tracking can quickly identify and isolate affected items, similar to food and beverage supply chains.

As the cannabis industry continues to evolve, Metrc’s footprint is likely to expand. Its adoption by multiple state governments and its ability to adapt to varying state requirements make it a strong contender in the cannabis supply chain management space.

10. Headset

Headset stands out in the cannabis supply chain management space by focusing on business intelligence and market analytics. The platform connects to over 3,500 cannabis retailers across the US and Canada, providing a comprehensive view of the market.

Key features of Headset include:

Real-time sales tracking
Inventory optimization
Consumer behavior analysis
Market trend insights
Vendor-driven ordering

Headset’s impact on cannabis businesses is significant:

Metric	Value
Monthly cannabis sales tracked	Over $1 billion
Retailers connected	3,500+
Data source	Actual consumer transactions

The platform’s effectiveness is evident in user feedback. Kelly Owen, Vendor Management & Purchasing, stated:

"Headset gave us all the data we needed to create an express menu & power same-day delivery."

Headset’s Market Benchmarking service helps dispensaries compare their performance to the overall market. This tool allows businesses to:

Analyze sales data in context
Compare unit volume and average item prices
Make informed inventory decisions

For cannabis producers, Headset offers market intelligence to stay ahead of the competition. Ave Miller, VP of Sales at Fly Beverage Co., shared:

"We launched our new 100mg shot specifically based on the data we saw from Headset — We are able to see how big of an opportunity there is within the Beverage segment including shots, syrups, and elixirs – so we went after it!"

Headset’s platform has helped businesses streamline their operations. For example, Craft Cannabis reduced their marketing outreach from 12,000 messages to a targeted 600, resulting in cost savings.

The platform’s data-driven approach extends to inventory management. Alex Schiewe, Purchasing Manager at One Plant, explained:

"I was recently put in a position that required me to cut back on our inventory budget, so I looked to Headset Retailer’s reorder report to assist me. Because the data-driven model uses in-stock sales to create reorder suggestions, I’m able to order just the right amount of product and keep inventory lean."

Headset’s commitment to data security is noteworthy. It’s the only cannabis data provider with SOC2 certification, ensuring user data privacy and protection.

As the cannabis industry becomes more data-driven, Headset’s role in supply chain management is likely to grow. Its ability to provide actionable insights from real-time data positions it as a key player in the evolving cannabis market.

App Comparison

To help you choose the right cannabis supply chain management app for your business, we’ve compiled a comparison table of the top 10 apps discussed in this article. This table highlights key features, pricing, and user ratings to give you a quick overview of each option.

App Name	Key Features	Pricing	User Rating
BioTrack	– Inventory management – Compliance tracking – Third-party integrations	Contact for quote	4.2/5
Distru	– Real-time inventory – Order management – Analytics	Contact for quote	4.5/5
Canix	– Seed-to-sale tracking – Compliance reporting – Integrations with Metrc	Starts at $279/month	4.7/5
Flowhub	– POS system – Inventory management – Compliance tools	Starts at $499/month	4.3/5
Prelude	– Automated ordering – Sales optimization – Inventory forecasting	Contact for quote	4.6/5
MJ Freeway	– Seed-to-sale tracking – Business intelligence – Compliance tools	Contact for quote	4.0/5
Elevated Signals	– Batch tracking – Quality management – Compliance reporting	Contact for quote	4.4/5
IndicaOnline	– POS system – Inventory management – Customer loyalty program	Starts at $249/month	4.1/5
Metrc	– RFID tracking – Government compliance – Real-time reporting	$0.25 per RFID tag + shipping	3.8/5
Headset	– Market analytics – Sales tracking – Inventory optimization	Contact for quote	4.8/5

When comparing these apps, keep in mind that pricing can vary based on your business size and needs. Many providers offer customized quotes, so it’s best to contact them directly for accurate pricing information.

Some key points to consider:

Metrc and BioTrack are state-mandated in many regions, so your choice may be limited depending on your location.
Canix and Flowhub offer transparent pricing models, which can be helpful for budgeting.
Headset stands out with its focus on market analytics, which can be particularly useful for businesses looking to gain a competitive edge.
Prelude claims to increase sales by up to 10% and reduce inventory costs by 20-30%, making it a strong contender for businesses focused on optimization.
Integration capabilities vary among apps. For example, Metrc integrates with Flowhub and Canix, which can streamline operations if you’re using multiple systems.

When selecting an app, consider your specific business needs, compliance requirements, and growth plans. It’s often helpful to request demos or trials before making a final decision.

How to Pick the Right App

Choosing the best cannabis supply chain management app for your business requires careful thought. Here’s how to make an informed decision:

1. Identify Your Needs

Start by listing your specific requirements. Consider:

Inventory management
Point-of-sale integration
Customer relationship management (CRM)
Reporting features
Compliance tracking

2. Evaluate Business Size and Growth

Your current size and future plans matter. For example:

Small businesses might prefer user-friendly apps like IndicaOnline, starting at $249/month
Larger operations may need more robust solutions like Canix, offering seed-to-sale tracking from $279/month

3. Check Compliance Features

Ensure the app meets local and state regulations. For instance:

Metrc and BioTrack are state-mandated in many regions
Look for HIPAA accreditation for medical dispensaries

4. Compare Pricing Models

Consider your budget and preferred payment structure:

Pricing Model	Example	Consideration
Subscription	Flowhub: $499/month	Predictable monthly cost
Usage-based	Metrc: $0.25 per RFID tag	Scales with your business
Custom Quote	BioTrack, Distru	May offer tailored solutions

5. Assess Integration Capabilities

Look for apps that work well with your existing systems. For example:

Canix integrates with Metrc for streamlined compliance reporting
Headset offers market analytics that can complement other management tools

6. Request Demos and Trials

Hands-on experience is key. Rob Woodbyrne, Regrow CEO, advises:

"Make sure any software vendor lets you see the solution working, with your data in it, before you commit to pay or subscribe."

7. Consider Ease of Use

Pick software your team can quickly learn and implement. User-friendly interfaces can boost adoption rates and efficiency.

8. Look for Scalability

Choose an app that can grow with your business. Apps like Prelude offer features like automated ordering and sales optimization, which can support expansion.

9. Check Customer Support

Reliable support is crucial. Evaluate:

Response times
Available support channels (phone, email, chat)
Knowledge base and documentation

Tips for Using Your New App

Setting up and using a new cannabis supply chain management app effectively requires careful planning and execution. Here are key tips to ensure smooth implementation and optimal use:

Set Up and Data Migration

Understand the software: Familiarize yourself with all features before implementation.
Clean data: Before migrating, cleanse existing data to eliminate errors and inconsistencies.
Test thoroughly: Run various scenarios to catch and fix issues before full adoption.

Training and Onboarding

Develop a training program: Create a tailored program for your team’s needs.
Use vendor resources: Many providers offer onboarding services. For example, Meadow offers Meadow Mastery, an online course teaching inventory management practices.
Implement shadowing: Have new hires shadow experienced team members to learn day-to-day operations.

Inventory Management

Regular cycle counts: Perform smaller, frequent counts instead of monthly full-store inventories.
FIFO method: Use First In, First Out to minimize spoilage and ensure product freshness.
Barcode scanning: Utilize this feature for fast, accurate counts.

Compliance and Security

Stay updated: Regularly train staff on compliance, including customer ID verification and proper storage laws.
Manage user accounts: Set up roles and permissions based on team responsibilities to maintain security.