Why a WMS should work for the business and not the other way around

Have business processes become a chaotic combination of complex logistics processes and inefficient workflows? If so, it’s high time to take matters into your own hands and put your warehouse management system under the microscope. In this article, you will discover why a Warehouse Management System (WMS) is no longer optional for companies that want to excel in the modern business world and learn why a WMS should work for the company and not the other way around. In addition, you’ll discover how a well-integrated WMS system can transform the business from chaos to streamlined efficiency.

 

 

The consequences of an ineffective WMS system

In the dynamic world of warehouse management, a properly functioning WMS is hugely important. But what if this essential tool is not working properly? The consequences can have a major impact on the company’s overall performance. For example:

 

1. Delayed order processing: a poorly integrated WMS can lead to delays in order processing. Mistakes are easily made and a lack of real-time information can lead to long lead times and delays in the supply chain.
2. Reduced operational efficiency: an ineffective WMS can lead to reduced operational efficiency. Inaccurate storage locations and routes for order picking, and inadequate inventory management can lead to costly waste of time, resources, and labor.
3. Increasing costs: a poorly integrated WMS can drive up operating costs. The lack of information about all inventory in the warehouse can lead to inventory levels that are too high or too low. This results in unnecessary storage and procurement costs. In addition, an inefficient WMS system can cause additional costs. Consider, for example, higher labor costs and high error rates among warehouse employees.
4. Lower customer satisfaction: a WMS that does not function properly can lead to customer dissatisfaction. Delivery delays, shipment errors, and lack of transparency can lead to negative customer experiences. As a result, the company’s reputation takes a hit and customers switch to competitors in the market.
5. Lack of real-time visibility: ineffective WMS systems are a real disaster for business intelligence. The lack of logistics data, such as inventory, order picking, and operational performance, makes it difficult for management to make informed decisions.

 

 

Here’s how to make a WMS work for your business

Fortunately, it is quite possible to avoid these consequences with new technologies in supply chain management. Implementing an advanced WMS system is an important part of this. After all, if you choose a WMS system that is tailored to the company’s specific needs and processes, the entire supply chain will get a positive boost. Make sure the system offers sufficient functionality, such as real-time inventory visibility, order tracking, and an accessible user interface.

 

In addition, it is important to ensure that the system can integrate seamlessly with existing systems. For example, consider the Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system. With proper integration, data is transmitted accurately and you create a smooth flow of information between different departments within the company. Next, consider who is responsible for updates to the WMS systems. Here, distinguish between the management of the WMS system and regular updates.

 

Regular checks and audits of a WMS are essential to detect and correct any problems or discrepancies in time. If you manage a WMS then you are verifying inventory data, evaluating operational performance, and identifying areas for improvement in the supply chain.

 

 

Train warehouse employees for quick implementation

Training warehouse employees is essential for a smooth and quick implementation of a warehouse management system. Ensure adequate involvement in the use of the system. After all, they need to become familiar with the functionalities of these new it systems and should eventually be able to work with them properly. Regular training sessions ensure that the WMS works efficiently. This is especially important if the company manages multiple warehouses.

 

Finally, keep striving for continuous improvement and optimization of the WMS. Modern technology provides real-time insight into operations through a clear interface. These actions are stored in the warehouse management system, giving the (online) retailer instant insight into important information. Implement improvements based on this information. Think about automating inventory management, further developing storage locations, and improving picking routes for products.

 

AI and warehouse optimization

Artificial intelligence has taken warehouse management to the next level. We can now call a modern WMS in the same breath as Software as a Service (SaaS). That’s because advanced technology opens up new possibilities. Not only for large enterprises but also for smaller warehouses looking to ramp up production.

 

AI’s main operations in warehouse management are automating orders and optimizing picking routes. AI uses machine learning algorithms to recognize patterns and trends, making it possible to optimize these processes. Another area in which AI excels is predictive inventory management. For example, the WMS checks whether there is sufficient inventory and which products or items sell best. Based on this, AI predicts future demand patterns, after which inventory levels can be adjusted.

 

Finally, AI also plays a crucial role in implementing automated warehouse systems. Consider autonomous mobile robots (AMR) and automated sorting systems. These systems use AI to autonomously navigate the warehouse, avoid obstacles and move goods. They can also interact with human warehouse workers, with AI optimizing coordination and task distribution.

 

Lower costs through a WMS in the cloud

A well-integrated WMS can provide substantial cost savings for businesses. After all, with the help of advanced software, it is no longer necessary to invest in your own hardware. Everything is arranged in the cloud and you have real-time visibility into the entire supply chain, inventory, storage, and orders via mobile devices. With a WMS in the cloud, it is also possible to manage e-commerce activities, streamline collaborations with suppliers and improve the recording of the entire inventory.

 

By implementing cloud technology in a WMS, it is also possible to scale flexibly. The result is substantial cost savings in terms of labor, warehouse management, costs of vehicles bringing products to customers, and more. This ensures higher customer satisfaction and efficiency in warehouse management.

 

Software as a service

Inefficient warehouse management can result in delays, operational inefficiencies, high costs, and dissatisfied customers. Fortunately, there is a solution. Implement an advanced Warehouse Management System (WMS) with BizBloqs. With our expertise and customized solutions, you can take back control of your warehouse processes and benefit from optimized inventory management, efficient order processing, and improved customer satisfaction.

 
Let BizBloqs transform your business by implementing a WMS that works for your business, not the other way around. Contact us today to learn how you can benefit from streamlined logistics and the competitive advantage that an effective WMS provides. Prepare for growth and success with BizBloqs as your trusted partner in warehouse management!

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Willem Ten Asbroek

Willem Ten Asbroek

CEO, Bizbloqs Management Solution B.V.

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PRODUCT SELECTOR

Welcome to the BizBloqs product selector. This is a tool we designed to guide you to the right subscription for your business.

If you are not sure how to answer a question, or you are not comfortable with the recommendation, please simply contact us and discuss it with one of our experts. It is our duty and pleasure to guide you to the best of our ability, making sure you arrive at the right well-informed choice that suits your needs perfectly.

INTRODUCTION

BizBloqs offers Business Processes as a Service (BPaaS) and has created a range of subscriptions that service the specific needs of customer profiles we have encountered often in the market.

Our solutions are designed in such a way that we can service the smallest businesses for their basic needs, while the same platform can service the most complex and elaborate logistic requirements as well. This level of scalability allows all our customers to make their subscription grow with their needs, no matter how rapidly they grow or increase the complexity.

STATEMENT 1

I only need very basic features and care most about my outbound process.

GAMBIT

Gambit is our entry-level solution that covers the basic needs for companies that are looking to digitize their order fulfilment processes.

The emphasis of this subscription is on the outbound processes, handling all common requirements with ease. Gambit includes the ability to integrate a web shop on the frontend or an ERP system in the backend.

Furthermore, you can connect your Gambit solution to a supported transporter of your choice. Your order fulfilment and stock management have never been easier.

STATEMENT 2

I only need basic features, but inbound and outbound processes are both very relevant for my requirements.

PAWN

Pawn is the second-tier subscription of BizBloqs. It offers all the capabilities of Gambit, but also adds full control over the purchasing process. If you are looking to take your business to the next level by digitizing all your warehouse processes altogether, Pawn is the right solution for you.

It offers location management out of the box, supporting one location per article as the standard. All basic processes any small or medium business might need are included, all based on the years of experience and elaborate expertise of BizBloqs. We have taken the best practices of implementations in the past so you can benefit from the best of our capabilities.

STATEMENT 3

I need some advanced features; my situation requires location management and/or we need digital support for batch picking. You could say my needs resemble a wholesaler, reseller or large web shop.

KNIGHT

Knight takes your digital logistic capabilities to the level you might see at large companies with a professional setup. In fact, BizBloqs services several companies at this level with its Knight solution. It offers the possibility to manage an article across multiple locations and offers digital management for your batch picking.

Knight is the right solution for you if you need to optimize fairly complex processes or large operations. If location management is a big part of your business, Knight is the right subscription level for you. This solution is popular amongst wholesalers, resellers and web shops in particular.

STATEMENT 4

I want a standard solution, but with all the bells and whistles. I manage multiple locations and zoning across my warehouses and deal with a lot of orders.

BISHOP

Bishop is the ultimate standard subscription with a wide range of features beyond the capabilities of Knight. It allows for dynamic location management, which allows you to keep track of your stock on the move at all times.

You can manage multiple locations and assign various location zones as per your requirements. Bishop can handle a great number of orders without effort. If this ultimate subscription still doesn’t meet your needs, you would need to consider a custom solution that is tailored specifically to your requirements.

CUSTOM

Clearly it will not be possible to make a straightforward recommendation for your needs. That’s perfectly fine, we have the expertise and experience to address your challenges. You will need to work with our experts to digitize your processes and define your workflow.

Our solutions are designed in such a way that we can service the smallest businesses for their basic needs, while the same platform can service the most complex and elaborate logistic requirements as well. We can do this without development in almost all cases, simply by configuring our solutions to reflect your situation perfectly.