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Innovations in automation technology enable companies to upgrade their warehousing and fulfillment processes far beyond what was possible in the past. An adrenalized goods-to-person (GTP) process, real-time data measurement, and meticulous inventory tracking are just a few of the benefits of next-gen automation. But none of this happens without a robust warehouse management system at the helm. This collection of software tools acts as the central brain of an automation ecosystem and a control panel for warehouse employees.
Today’s automated warehouses include a network of integrated systems. Each performs a different task while simultaneously linking to the next step in the fulfillment process. Warehouse management software coordinates and manages this intricate dance.
TGW Logistics’ state-of-the-art automated storage and retrieval system (ASRS), goods-to-person (GTP) systems, and warehouse robotics integrate with WMS, bringing total operational efficiency and control to your company’s fulfillment infrastructure.
The Evolution from Traditional to Automated Systems
Supply chain logistics has changed dramatically over the years. A shift from manual to software-driven workflows has transformed every step in the material handling process, making it easier for businesses to meet ever-changing consumer expectations while reducing operating costs.
In the Beginning
Traditional warehouse operations relied on physical labor and manual touchpoints throughout the fulfillment process. Workers received paper-based orders, located the items in storage systems, and transported them to packing areas to be prepped for shipping by another team. Inventories were tracked through periodic physical counts and manually logged into the warehouse software.
Innovations to warehouse management software in the 80s and 90s helped streamline storage and fulfilment processes with basic barcode scanning technology and data insights. This enabled more comprehensive inventory tracking and operational decision-making, but didn’t reduce the need for a largely manual material handling process.
A New Era: Warehouse Management Software and Automation
As logistics automation became the norm, WMS evolved to incorporate AI and machine learning. These innovations helped bridge the gap between employees, processes, and machines.
Today, companies rely on a logistics tech stack for automation control, creating a fully integrated ecosystem where each workflow is optimized for maximum efficiency. Software oversees each step in the material handling process, communicating with and managing automated conveyor networks, ASRS, warehouse robots, and inbound and outbound processes. It also optimizes manual workflows, reducing the need for manual labor and replacing it with human-machine collaboration.
Modern WMS also leverages data to achieve operational efficiency on the backend. Real-time data collection supports meticulous inventory tracking and stock level visibility, making it easy for managers to improve reordering processes and cut costs by identifying unused stock. Performance metrics help optimize employee workflows by pinpointing bottlenecks so managers can adjust warehouse layouts and reassign workers to achieve optimal throughput.
Ongoing innovations to software and automation technology will continue to redefine the material flow process and shape the way companies serve their customers.
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Key Features That Drive Automation
Warehouse automation technology is only effective if a robust WMS is in place. The right software can propel automated systems to areas where fulfillment centers need them most.
Companies with extensive and varied product offerings require a high-end ASRS with a robot-driven shuttle system to facilitate a smooth storage and picking process. A WMS provides the necessary oversight and optimization for system success.
WMS integration with ASRS supports optimal storage density and space utilization. This enables warehouses to store more inventory in a fixed space and place high-demand items in areas for quick access by warehouse robots.
A company’s GTP process directly impacts customer satisfaction and retention. Speed is the name of the game, which means human workers must rely on automated systems to transport orders and do the heavy lifting.
WMS for automation analyzes incoming orders and allocates tasks based on urgency and worker productivity. For example, warehouse management software determines which picking station to assign an order to and communicates with the ASRS shuttle system to ensure items go to the most logical destination. Software can also prioritize orders if customers pay extra for faster shipping speeds.
Software integration supports GTP optimization and prevents employees from being overworked by a continuous stream of orders. This helps the warehouse maintain a steady, healthy workflow.
Data insights are invaluable for fulfillment centers, especially when scalability is a business goal. WMS collects and records data from every automated system and provides metrics so companies can maintain operational efficiency and make future-forward improvements.
Real-time inventory tracking prevents stockouts and eliminates the need for physical counts. It also makes it easy to spot patterns in demand and program the software to replenish certain items automatically when inventory reaches a certain level.
How Warehouse Management Software Benefits Different Industries
Storage and order fulfillment differ depending on the industry. One of WMS's biggest strengths is that it adapts to a company’s infrastructure to deliver targeted benefits.
Successful fulfillment is a juggling act in the retail and consumer goods sector. Retention hinges on stellar customer service and fast product delivery—we’re talking next-day or same-day shipping.
In an ecommerce model, WMS integrates with a company’s online ordering system to support a swift, accurate fulfillment process. It automatically prioritizes orders as they’re placed and orchestrates the picking, packing, and shipping process. The software also provides visibility into inventory levels, finds the right shipping carriers, and logs returned items. This functionality is crucial for business stability and growth in the evolving world of retail logistics.
Product sensitivity is a significant challenge in retail grocery and cold chain logistics. Food storage and handling require strict oversight to prevent spoilage and maintain quality standards.
In cold storage environments, WMS manages the inbound process so foods are transported to the correct temperature zones as quickly as possible. The software also manages outbound logistics so items don’t perish during packing and shipping.
Storing and shipping dry goods also requires stringent inventory management. Software helps by prioritizing items based on expiration dates. This minimizes spoilage and prevents stockouts.
High SKU complexity, spare parts management, and fluctuating supply chains are just a few challenges industrial goods providers face. The right WMS offers powerful inventory tracking so companies can maintain a bird’s-eye view of their end-to-end material flow.
Software facilitates real-time product tracking via QR codes, radio frequency identification (RFID), or barcode technology. It collects and analyzes data so companies can optimize their warehouse spaces for maximum storage capability.
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The TGW Logistics Advantage
Our WERX Warehouse Management Software facilitates smooth inbound and outbound logistics. We understand the importance of complete control over your fulfillment center’s automated systems. Our software suite combines the necessary tools to drive operational success now and in the future.
- Warehouse Orchestration: This tool supports managing every warehouse process by joining each automated system to achieve operational efficiency.
- Warehouse Execution: This tool supports consistent and accurate uptime by managing day-to-day tasks such as order fulfillment and inventory movement.
- Automation Management: This tool controls mechanical, electronic, and computer-based systems while helping maintain a center’s material handling equipment.
Our team of experts integrates WERX with automated logistics technology to create a unified infrastructure. We can integrate our software with existing Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems and machines without disruption.
We also provide long-term operational support with WERX Services. This includes remote or on-site support, as well as retrofit and extension services.
Upgrade Your System With Industry-Leading Software
Ready to future-proof your system to handle supply chain volatility, product evolution, and changing customer demands. Unlock next-gen automation with powerful warehouse management software that puts you in control.
Contact TGW Logistics to explore your solution today.