Digital Strategy

Most organizations do not intentionally build operational systems in Excel. They emerge as workflows outgrow ERP flexibility and teams create spreadsheets to keep the business moving. Over time, those temporary fixes become critical operational layers powering pricing, reporting, product data, and day-to-day coordination across the business.

Shopify has made B2B ecommerce faster and more accessible than ever. But once you move beyond the storefront, most teams run into the same problem. The platform works, but the system around it does not. Pricing lives in one place, product data in another, and workflows in between. The result is not a feature gap. It is a coherence gap.

Modern DAM platforms are no longer just repositories for marketing assets. They have become operational systems that govern workflows, product content, AI-assisted metadata, brand consistency, and omnichannel content delivery. This article compares leading DAM platforms including Sitecore Content Hub, Frontify, Bynder, Optimizely DAM, and Adobe Experience Manager Assets through the lens of enterprise governance, workflow orchestration, AI capabilities, and real-world operational fit.

GA4 left many B2B teams frustrated. This article highlights the best analytics alternatives for manufacturers and distributors, from lightweight privacy-first tools to enterprise-grade solutions.

Private equity is transforming HVAC, plumbing, and electrical contractors into data-driven operations. As relationships give way to digital optimization, distributors must adapt to stay relevant.

Many distributors hesitate to start eCommerce transformation until they “feel ready.” The truth? Waiting costs more. Learn why bringing in a consultative partner now is the key to long-term success.

Online sales are growing while traditional distribution lags behind. Layer One CEO Chad Albrecht shares insights on why PHCP distributors face a digital disruption point, and what it takes to compete.

Predictions of a post-COVID slump in online usage didn’t materialize for distributors. Instead, all those folks who got used to buying online when they didn’t have a choice have embraced the channel and – apparently – talked their coworkers into joining the digital customer club.

Attending the Auer Expo was a fantastic experience that provided insights into the latest developments in the HVAC industry. The event brought together a diverse group of engineers, dealers, industry experts, and manufacturers from around the world, creating a vibrant atmosphere for learning and networking.

The B2B buying market has changed radically for almost all professions, and engineers are no exception. Here's what engineers said they wanted in their shopping experience, and what may happen if companies don't adapt.

B2B buying is complex and involves various departments, all while customers want to minimize the time and effort it takes to make purchasing decisions. Learn how to understand your customer on a deeper level using the right data for B2B, B2C, and B2X buyers alike.

Navigating the commerce space is harder today than it has ever been. How do you know where you are compared to your peers? What is a logical next step? How much will it cost? In this webinar your hosts from Layer One and Sitecore will begin to answer these questions for you.

Layer One Media’s clients do business worldwide. As such, they are constantly collecting data on their customers and website visitors. Recently, the EU and Parliament adopted new regulations that will not only effect third party cloud providers but the companies that collect data as well. Following is a bulletin we think you’ll find helpful in preparing for the change.

Manufacturers and Distributors are hearing the call from their customers – “lower costs and be easier to do business with!” For most, this means providing a streamlined digital commerce experience from relevant information to fulfillment and post-sales support. So what do I keep hearing from manufacturers as to why B2B digital commerce is so hard?

Creating meaningful integration is where the distinction between creating business value and busywork lies. Poor integration adds to maintenance, may cause your site to load slowly and more to keep track of in the long term. So, the question becomes: how do you determine what provides the most meaningful business value that becomes most useful to integrate with?

Since the early 90s, the trend in mid and large size B2B companies has been to consolidate their decentralized procurement groups and streamline their supply chain operations optimizing their buying power, supplier relationships and of course, reduce cost. This optimization typically lends to procurement groups purchasing product and services for multiple ship-to locations.

Why is personalization so important? Simple, you want to provide the best possible experience to your prospect or customer. This is absolutely critical. You want every interaction with your customer to be as effective and efficient as possible, this requires at least a certain amount of knowledge of your customer but obviously, you can never have too much data from which to make decisions.

Collecting metrics is easy. Knowing which ones matter is harder. This article walks through how B2B companies can align goals, KPIs, and analytics tools to create a measurement plan that drives real business outcomes.

B2B buyers often make decisions online before sales ever gets involved. This article explores how manufacturers and distributors can deliver digital pre-sales servicing that influences buying decisions. 

B2B marketplaces can erode margins and commoditize products. This article explains how manufacturers can avoid the trap and win with value-added services, stronger channel support, and better digital experiences.

GDPR reshaped how businesses handle data privacy. This article explores what the regulation means for manufacturers and distributors, and how Umbraco CMS can support compliance efforts.

Personas and profiles help you understand buyers, but scoring models show you who is ready to engage. Here’s how manufacturers and distributors can use all three in marketing automation.

eCommerce is never “done.” This article outlines 10 essential considerations for manufacturers and distributors to keep their B2B eCommerce strategies current and competitive.