This month Alchemy Global Talent Solutions has collaborated with Lincoln Distribution, taking a look at how warehouse management systems (WMS) are revolutionizing warehouse technology…
In the last few years, there have been several shifts and advancements in the use of warehouse technology. As a result of this, Warehouse Managers must also adjust with the changes in technological advancements to provide faster deliveries to customers, thereby improving customer satisfaction. Warehouse processes are usually complex and intertwined, so the use of a warehouse management software system can make each process faster, easier and more efficient.
Despite the introduction of technology into warehousing, some warehouses today are yet to adopt the use of some of this software. It might be as a result of the processes involved in implementing the software being too complex.
The process of transporting goods either from or to a warehouse requires more than just efficiency because most of the time, each journey and its process is unique. With the use of a warehouse management software (WMS), it becomes easier to make necessary adjustments within the delivery chain from the supplier to the final consumer. The WMS also helps in ensuring on-time delivery to the customer, in the right condition and at the right place. The increasing efficiency of warehouses has led to increased accuracy, speed, and scale across supply chains.
There are many benefits associated with the use of warehouse management software (WMS); some of which are:
- A sizeable reduction in the use of inventory paperwork – as well as the duties of cycle counting become easier and faster in the warehouse.
- A reduction in the activities carried out by personnel in the warehouse
- Inventory turnover becomes faster and new requests or orders are responded quicker
- Labour Productivity is also increased
- Better customer service
- The space in the warehouse is used efficiently
But how is WMS Revolutionary?
WMS has evolved over time due to technological advancements regularly emerging into the supply chain process. This revolution has helped in maximizing workflows, accuracy in packaging and picking, inventory improvement and allowing for the maximisation oflabour.
Use of Warehouse Robotics
A developing trend is the implementation of robots into warehouses, this is predicted to increase accuracy, productivity and efficiency. However, the introduction of robotics into warehouse management has been problematic, the robots currently available for usage in warehouses are sometimes unable to detect the differences between certain items and organise them as required.
Having said this, robots that are able to identify differences in items within the warehouse are the new advancement currently being developed. Having robots carry out heavy duties has its benefits due to improved consistency verses human counterparts. Comparatively, people are more likely to suffer from illnesses or injury and are entitled to a holiday allowance, in contrast to robots that do not get sick and need minimal rest. Another view however, is that technology also carries the danger of malfunctioning at any time and a total system shutdown could halt operations – so it is not without its drawbacks.
Use of Artificial Intelligence
Artificial intelligence (AI) is an aspect of computer science that utilises the capability of machine learning. Within the capacity of a warehouse, AI carries the potential for high deployments of goods with less stress. Most warehouses today are set to reconfigure their company’s warehouse in such a way that it conforms to these new developments and innovations. With the advancement of introducing artificial intelligence to warehouse processes, it will be possible to send voice commands or ask questions, and software will provide solutions and all the necessary information at the moment required.
Use of Advanced Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
WMS is at its best when used as part of a zero-modification strategy. Additionally, WMS software can also be used to take updates on smartphone and computers with a simple push of a button from a merchant or seller.
Adapting the Use of Virtual Reality as a Tool for Training
WMS also integrates the use of Virtual Reality (VR). Conventionally used for games and entertainment purposes, you could consider VR’s implementation for practical warehouse training, revolutionary. This is because new employees become familiar with all the necessary activities within the warehouse without physically needing to be there, reducing the risk presented by untrained staff with no familiarity with the warehouse environment. This technological advancement can be upgraded periodically or as necessary for better results.
Warehouse management systems will continue to improve, and more technological advancements will be introduced as new software is developed. Although, this revolutionizing process can quite expensive, it is clear to see that the adoption of this new technology can result in a cost-effective output.
Lincoln Distribution is a family-owned logistics company specialising in warehousing and transportation reputation. Warehouses are in Buffalo, Syracuse, NY and Tampa, FL.