Putting Intelligence into Intralogistics
The Warehouse Management System (WMS) is the backbone of modern logistic distribution. It controls the storage and movement of materials within the warehouse and processes the transactions based on real time information. It can be used as standalone system or integrated as part of a supply chain solution.
A well designed WMS can:
Improve utilisation of warehouse footprint
Minimise paperwork
Reduce picking errors
Improve inventory accuracy
Increase stock visibility and traceability
Boost labour productivity
Enhance customer service
With the increasing complexity in order fulfilment in today’s environment, it is difficult to imagine operating a warehouse, whether it is manual or automated, without the benefit of a WMS.
Choosing An Appropriate WMS
There is a wide range available on the market with different functionalities and price points. So what should you consider when choosing a WMS?
These are some of the factors you should bear in mind:
Warehouse Size : The size of the warehouse matters in the selection of a WMS. As larger warehouses usually have more activities, a more complex system with more functionality is recommended. Equally important is the volume of work and the degree of automation.
Complexity of Operation : As different WMS can perform different functions, you must determine what your business requirements are. Do you need to post tracking numbers to your customers? Are you an e-commerce site that needs auto-allocation so your available inventory is always accurate? Do you need lot tracing to comply with government regulations? You should also consider the company’s requirements five years from now. Can the WMS you intend to purchase have the flexibility to scale the functionalities to satisfy your needs ?
Costs : The cost of a WMS varies widely depending on the complexity of the system and the system vendor. Unless cost is not a consideration, you will have to strike the right balance between costs and functions, going for a system which is within your budget and meet most, if not all, your requirements.
SCHAEFER’s Comprehensive Suite of WMS
At SSI SCHAEFER, we have a comprehensive suite of WMS to meet the differing requirements. As one of the few material handling automation vendors with established warehouse management solution as a core competency, we have been able to leverage our deep intralogistics process know-how and our in-depth understanding of IT to develop modular and integrable solutions targeted at six key market sectors – fashion, food retail, food & beverage, retail & wholesale, healthcare & cosmetics and industry.
Our industry specific IT solutions are based on:
WAMAS® GO! For small and medium sized enterprises
WAMAS® GO! is an entry-level version of the WAMAS® software providing a standard set of functions such as goods receipt, storage, picking, outbound, inventory management and stocktaking for digital warehouse management. A modular solution, it can be modified in line with changing needs quickly, flexibly and cost-effectively.SAP solutions for warehouse logistics
A certified SAP partner, SSI SCHAEFER can support you in choosing, implementing and operating SAP solutions. Depending on the warehouse concept, it could be the SAP Extended Warehouse Management (SAP EWM) or the SAP LES/TRM solutions.
For more information on WMS and SSI SCHAEFER WMS solutions, contact our representative who can assist you.