Holste Says... |
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| As more robust integration layers becoming common among leading ERP/WMS and System Integrators, this will result in less system complexity and lower cost options. |
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While this approach is perfectly logical from a buy’s perspective, it will also make it somewhat easier for small to medium size shippers to justify system upgrades that can scale-up as the business grows and/or be reconfigured as needed to better accommodate changes in the future.One such provider is Fetch Robotics which offers several modular and scalable automated order picking and transportation solutions. See picture below.
Warehouse Management System (WMS) providers have also adopted this modular/scalable approach by offering programs that are specifically targeted to small and medium size operations. This is especially important as many logistics experts recommend deploying a WMS as the first step towards upgrading an order fulfillment operation. Technologies such as RF and voice picking can be easily integrated into even the most basic WMS to further enhance system performance.
Shippers operating out of 50K to 100K sq. ft. facilities may now be able to deploy technologies that will enable them to move away from a departmentalized order processing model to a more lean flow-thru approach such as Goods-to-Person see “An In-Depth Look at Goods-to-Person Order Fulfillment Solutions”– Part 1 and Part 2. Other benefits include:
- Optimizing human and equipment resources
- Reducing inventory levels
- Improved order picking accuracy and on-time shipping performance
- Increased ability to provide value added services
- Flexibility to quickly adapt to changes in SKU mix and customer order profiles
Final Thoughts
All shippers, regardless of size, will benefit from more modular systems and communication standards which are constantly improving. As more robust integration layers becoming common among leading ERP/WMS and System Integrators, this will result in less system complexity and lower cost options. All of which is good news for small operations looking to grow.
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