In falling dominoes, careful planning and precise execution is essential in achieving the end result. Even one missing or misplaced domino among hundreds can interrupt the progress and cause the entire plan to fail. A successful warehouse operates under the same basic principle; achieving the desired end result requires careful planning. Every step in the process must function not only on its own, but seamlessly with the steps before and after it. One minor glitch in any aspect of the warehouse operations can bring the function of the whole system to a screeching halt. With all the processes that are essential to the average warehouse, careful management of each individual system is not an option; it’s a necessity.
Product Handling
From the moment items enter the warehouse, they must be logged, labeled, tracked, and allocated to the appropriate area for storage (or packaging, or processing of some kind). In addition, items must remain organized for easy access and location. Accurate records of incoming and outgoing items must be meticulously kept; careless mistakes can lead to lost inventory, incorrect shipping, and ultimately a loss in revenue. Dozens of people might handle an item from the time it enters the warehouse until it’s shipped out again; with so many sets of hands and so many steps an item goes through, precise management can be quite an undertaking. Not too long ago, warehouse management meant thousands and thousands of hand-written records, and a filing system reliable enough to keep them all organized and accessible (not to mention employees diligent enough to maintain them). Advancements in technology have led to vast improvements in warehouse management, including barcode scanners, software that tracks inventory, and electronic databases to organize important operations information.
Optimizing Productivity
For optimal efficiency and productivity, it is crucial that management software be implemented as a cohesive system, rather than independent pieces that manage individual aspects of warehouse operations. A unified warehouse management system will optimize operations, manage accounting, increase efficiency, decrease ownership costs, and improve accuracy from receiving to shipment. Because each warehouse is unique, it’s important to determine your needs and find the warehouse management system that best meets those needs. While most warehouse management systems cover basic functions like inventory tracking, various systems also offer more specialized functions like billing or automation with other equipment. You’ll want to find a warehouse management system that can be adapted to your operation’s individual needs, as well as one that is compatible with the needs of your suppliers and (perhaps more importantly) your clients.
An effective warehouse management system can fundamentally change the way your warehouse functions. The increased efficiency will allow for greater productivity with less time invested. Greater accuracy will mean significant improvements in order fulfillment and greater customer satisfaction. Because implementing a warehouse management system streamlines operations, the return on investment is quick and substantial. In today’s economy, no business can afford to waste money or operate inefficiently. With a warehouse management system in place, every aspect of your warehouse will be optimized for profitable operations.
Visit PANGEA to learn more about how they can help you get the most out of your business.