The advent of warehouse management systems has completely revolutionized the functioning of warehouses like inventory control. Warehouses in modern SMEs are no longer reliant on cumbersome paperwork and thick registers, but have gone on to become a ready solution destination, where the required information is just a single click away. What's more, this information is easily accessible to all concerned persons in the supply chain, via a transparent interface, which streamlines the functions of the warehouse, leading to increased accuracy and productivity.
The major functions that are performed by a warehouse management system include-
- Scheduling and planning- The key to successful warehouse management lies in effective planning, which is made possible through modern warehouse management software. This software utilizes advanced technology to perform vital functions like reserving dock time for different trailers. This is done by taking into account important data such as the availability of the trailer, delivery time, availability of products, etc.
- Supervision- One of the most important functions of a WMS is to supervise the products during material handling. In the absence of such a system, a large amount of manpower is required to effectively monitor in-process tasks. Not only does a WMS cut down on the cost required to employ these personnel, but it also eliminates the chance of human error.
- Warehouse tracking- The task of tracking items in the warehouse is greatly simplified by the presence of modules in a WMS which make it possible to perform a quick search for the required item. This function can further be expanded by making use of features like multiple location search, and replenishment alerts.
- Inventory picking- This is a function that needs to be performed with immense accuracy to ensure that there is no scope left for error. Inaccuracies during inventory picking can amount in great losses in the long run. Using a WMS makes sure that no scope is left for error, by ensuring that the amount of items picked at every stage of the supply chain are accurate.
- Shelf-life alerts- A WMS is an invaluable asset for organizations dealing with perishable items. Features in the WMS enable it to keep track of the shelf-lives of different items, ensuring complete customer satisfaction and company goodwill.
These are just some of the functions performed by a WMS. SMEs can choose from a wide range of additional features such as report generation, inventory counts, database updating, etc. depending on their requirements.
The Warehouse Management System provided McLane Logistics Technology allows you to manage your inventory in a more productive and economic manner. To order, visit them at Central Pointe, Parkway, Temple, TX 76504 or call at 1-800-989-7568.
