We provide the seven key benefits to be expected from a WMS, taking as an example Astro WMS, a system offered by Consafe Logistics wherever a comprehensive solution is needed.
"Never have we observed such an increase in non-standard needs of our customers than in recent years. While we had typically standard and not very complex deployments just a few years ago, now, there are no two similar projects," said Jarek Bukowski, Sales & Marketing Director, Consafe Logistics.
1. Flexibility as needed
Astro WMS is a modular system, which means that the application can be easily expanded by adding modules required by the customer. "Thanks to the high level of system configurability, we can reduce the configuration phase of a deployment project to only a dozen or so days. Furthermore, as changes can be easily made and we provide proper training, the customer can make many modifications to system settings by himself at a later time," said Grzegorz Kaczmarczyk, Application Consultant, Consafe Logistics.
2. Effectiveness for a competitive edge
Astro WMS enables optimization of full-pallet runs with a task optimization tool. The idea of such tool is that the sequences of tasks executed in each warehouse area are assigned in such a manner that the number of forklift runs with an empty fork is minimized.
3. Speed to execute the work on time
The advantage of innovative WMS solutions lies in proper understanding of the concept of time. In Astro WMS, every task generated by a process is assigned a priority, which may be e.g. related to the shipment deadline.
4. Technology to keep up with modern innovations
"Wireless terminals have been a standard in Astro WMS deployments for years. Now, we increasingly often deploy voice-picking solutions. And wherever the key factors include space and effective operations regardless of available human resources, automation comes into play more and more often. Our WMS works with various third-party automation systems, including high-storage systems, conveyors, and induction-controlled forklift trucks," said Grzegorz Kaczmarczyk of Consafe Logistics.
5. Reliability to minimize errors
While the IT solution itself in principle does not allow any errors, the risk increases wherever the human factor is present. As all operations are logged in Astro WMS, the consequences of erroneous actions can easily be remedied.
6. Analysis to keep everything under control
An unquestionable value of any warehouse management system consists in its ability to monitor warehouse operations and analyze warehouse data. Astro WMS includes reporting and statistics modules which help to evaluate the results of using a given solution, or to analyze performance of individual employees. The reports use data collected after the system’s deployment in the warehouse.
7. Profit to achieve return on investment
Examples of benefits from Astro WMS deployment, obtained through an ROI analysis: - General increase in warehouse productivity: 20-30%
- Optimization of internal transport (lower number of forklifts and operators): 20-40%
- Increase in warehouse space utilization: 10-20%
- Elimination of order-picking planning and reporting: 100%
- Increase in the number of order-picking processes per person: 20%
- Reduction of picking errors: 30-60%
- Reduction of warehouse downtime due to continuous stock-taking in real time: 100%
Source: Consafe Logistics |
The customer market and the provider market are not simple nowadays. Growing customer requirements and economic uncertainty force distributors to seek savings wherever possible. A good warehouse management system is one that, in the long term, brings not only return on investment, but also measurable benefits.
Author:
Justyna Folwarska
Application Consultant
Consafe Logistics