How Efficient is your Warehouse?

Warehouses across the globe are demanding more advanced functionality because consumers are demanding more options. SKU counts are increasing, consumer tastes constantly change and new products are always being developed. Being prepared for current and future warehouse challenges is a must.

In Tamarron Consulting’s Malt Beverage Distributor Performance Survey, 130 of 206 distributors stated that ‘SKU proliferation/complexity' is one of the top three challenges facing the beer industry. From 2005 to 2018, the average number of SKUs in a wholesaler’s warehouse increased more than 500%, increasing from 268 to 1,378.

That being said, having a Warehouse Management System (WMS) is no longer an option, it is a necessity. WMS is a solution that helps distributors excel in the marketplace and efficiently manage complex warehouse environments.

Complex warehouses require:

• Well structured inventory management

• Efficient people management

• Accurate data and reporting

• Extensibility to adapt to future challenges

The Encompass all-in-one ERP system includes fully integrated RAS and WMS to be the most comprehensive tool in any warehouse.

Inventory Management

Managing inventory is important because knowing where products are allows users to complete their jobs effectively, and efficiently. With real-time inventory, users constantly know exactly what is in the warehouse at all times. Inventory data can be accessed in the field, so sales and delivery personnel are always in the know.

The ability to track inventory throughout a warehouse also allows users to track whole batches of product for safety and compliance or in the event of problematic recalls. In addition, Encompass WMS includes directed inventory and replenishment. Users can schedule inventory cycle counts, and automatically know when a product needs to be replenished.

Labor Management

Cost of labor is increasing, and warehouses are becoming more complex, so, how can users manage warehouses better with the same number of people? With Encompass WMS, warehouses are easy to understand because all the information is right in front of you. The idea of an all-in-one system is a part of a forward-thinking movement where people and operations can train easier and track every movement. WMS is a tool for making warehouses smarter every day.

Data

Access to data and information has become a norm. So, the conversation has turned from attaining the information to using the information. Focus on making data-driven decisions and exception-based management. WMS delivers reporting so users can accurately forecast the future. Reports show inefficiencies within a warehouse so management can constantly update operations to produce the most bang for your buck. Step one, get the important data, step two, use it to your advantage.

Change is inevitable in any industry, and if your business is not flexible, the changes can become problems. Increasing SKU counts, changing consumer tastes, new products, and increasing labor costs are all a part of these changes.

Encompass ERP with RAS and WMS is the all-in-one solution to combat inevitable changes and inefficiencies in a warehouse. Be prepared for the future and constantly stay up-to-date with the ins and outs of your warehouse with WMS.

Check out the video below for more information on WMS at Advance Beverage!