3 Challenges to Running a Modern-Day Warehouse

May 2nd 2014 13:00:32 PM

Managing a warehouse can certainly be a daunting task. Warehouse managers are faced with unique challenges every day and, in order to keep things running as smoothly as possible, must react quickly to a variety of situations. Suppliers get delayed, equipment fails, employees get sick, and orders are shipped to the wrong customer. Not having the right information when you lead it can lead to all kinds of chaos on the warehouse floor and, without the right tools, these challenges could have a direct impact on your bottom line and success in the future.

Warehouse management software plays a crucial role in the warehouse management process. It can help you anticipate challenges and respond to them proactively, as well as help you to be more effective in your warehouse management approach. Modern-day solutions, such as our Sage 100 mobile warehouse management applications, even allow warehouse managers to access important information from their mobile devices so they can respond to challenges quickly and effectively. Relying on manual processes and antiquated software will not prepare you for the unique challenges your warehouse faces on a daily basis; to succeed, you need a modern-day, specialized warehouse management solution.

Over the years, we’ve sat down and talked with hundreds of manufacturers and distributors just like you about real manufacturing and distribution challenges. In those conversations, we’ve discovered that most manufacturers and distributors face the same challenges. In an effort to help you alleviate the pain of these challenges, we’ve highlighted the top 3 challenges we’ve seen in the warehouse and how warehouse management software (WMS software) can help you respond. Take a look at the following statements made from warehouse managers and see if you can relate:

1. Inventory Accuracy
   Warehouse management software has been around for a number of years; however, many manufacturers and distributors are still using paper and pen to manage their inventory counting tasks. While it may seem to be working, the reality is that these companies are at a distinct disadvantage. Without an automated system, they have no way of knowing what’s truly in stock at any given moment. This can lead to inventory inaccuracies which –in turn –can lead to even more costly challenges such as product excess or shortage.With warehouse management solutions such as Scanco Warehouse, your managers can view inventory levels in real-time on any PC or mobile device. This allows them to properly plan for their inventory needs and aids in forecasting for the future. As you know, excess inventory can lead to severe cash flow issues, create space concerns within the warehouse, and increase maintenance expenses. Inventory shortages, on the other hand, can lead to unfulfilled orders and unhappy customers. Both are detrimental to the warehouse and your company’s success, and both can be solved through the implementation of an effective warehouse management solution.
2. Manual and/or Redundant Processes
   If you’re not using an automated warehouse management solution, you are wasting valuable time (and money) performing tasks manually. With today’s technology, there is no excuse for not using an automated system. When paired with barcoding technology, warehouse management software can automate your processes so you can spend more time focusing on the tasks that matter.
3. Proper Space Utilization
   The layout of your warehouse matters a great deal. If your storage systems, bins, racks, and pallets are not optimized effectively, you are wasting valuable space. Research has proven that inefficient warehouse layouts directly impact labor and productivity. When your products are not stored in the proper locations (i.e. high-selling products in the front and low-selling products in the back), your employees have to put forth more effort. This causes productivity levels to flounder and reduces order efficiency.Warehouse management software can help your company better utilize the space in your warehouse so your employees are using their time effectively. With unique mapping capabilities, warehouse management applications can help you create the perfect layout for your warehouse operation. Many warehouse management applications also have barcoding capabilities, allowing you to view where your products are located at any given moment.

Having the right tools and technology can certainly alleviate common warehouse management challenges. If your company is experiencing any of the above challenges, give our warehouse management experts a call today. We offer innovative Sage 100 mobile warehouse management solutions designed to help your warehouse flourish.

Whether you’re using a smartphone, tablet or PC to manage your warehouse environment, our Sage 100 mobile applications can give you the tools you need to operate efficiently.
What are some of the most common challenges you experience? Let us know in the comments below. Who knows –maybe we’ll right a post about it in the upcoming months!