By introducing technology and automation, warehouses and DCs can be transformed into much safer and more pleasant places to work. Supported by mobile technology, pickers and packers are able to work more efficiently and ergonomically, using hand-held or wearable devices. Software like a warehouse management system (WMS) further enhances operations, giving workers the chance to over-achieve against KPIs by directing them to the most efficient pick routes and taking the guess work out of routine operations.
This article was first published in the March 15th 2022 issue of Warehouse & Logistics News, subscribe to the magazine by clicking here.
Unipart’s Digital Enterprise System (UDES) and forecasting system Unipart Dragonfly together form a quick-to-deploy system that automates and streamlines processes, providing warehouses with the control and visibility needed to run the operation at the optimal pace, without having the large price tag associated with it. The systems can be deployed to best fit warehouses’ needs, either as a set of web applications or as a plug-in service to enhance other tools, such as Unipart’s Inventory system; providing users with an end-to-end solution with full visibility. The products are suited to those that have the ambition to streamline processes, require flexibility at a low cost and need a solution fast.
Workplace solutions and business services provider, OfficeTeam Group (OTG), has rapidly integrated Logistyx Technologies’ multi carrier parcel shipping software into its existing workflow solution to help maintain an uninterrupted service to the new-acquired contract customers it secured as part of a recent acquisition from Office Depot Europe. OTG now relies on Logistyx TME software to handle the shipping processes for approximately 10,000 parcels a day, providing full visibility into shipping status from purchase through to delivery to the customer. OTG completed the purchase of Office Depot’s Contract Business, including Office Depot’s larger mid-market, major and public sector contract customers in the UK and Ireland, in late 2021.
Cognex Corporation has introduced the DataMan 280 series of fixed-mount barcode readers, engineered to solve a broad range of ID applications, including tough 1D, 2D, and Direct Part Mark (DPM) code applications in manufacturing and logistics. The DataMan 280 features a high-resolution sensor combined with a dynamic image formation system to improve code handling and coverage. This technology, along with connectivity options for today’s Industry 4.0 manufacturing needs, allows users to read complex barcodes reliably while improving overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) and throughput.
Many of the cloud-based WMS solutions providers, such as Oracle NetSuite from BrightBridge, offer out-of-the-box pre-configured portals that can be easily and quickly activated with no complicated set-up. These aid effective communication between distributors, partners, suppliers and contract manufacturers, regardless of location or time-zone – essential in a global economy. Whether it’s purchase or work order management, updates on stock in transit or vendor performance tracking, this important information can be viewed instantly from a range of devices, desktop and mobile.
The above examples are just a small selection of all the innovations happening in the field of I.T. which are helping to progress the warehouse industry.
George Simpson
Features Editor
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