Ongoing labor shortages, capacity constraints, rising customer expectations, and shifting order profiles have created significant challenges for distribution operations over the last year. To combat these supply chain disruptions and complexities, warehouse management system (WMS) providers are introducing innovative solutions that streamline operations and improve efficiency.
Below are some of the latest features and capabilities of modern WMS solutions that are helping distribution operations address these challenges:
1. Warehouse Execution Systems (WES)
Traditionally offered by material handling automation providers, Warehouse Execution Systems (WES) are now being incorporated by more WMS vendors. Operating between the WMS and warehouse control systems, WES applications optimize and manage order processing and material flow across automated distribution centers.
2. Labor Planning
Unlike labor management systems (LMS), which track individual employee performance, labor planning solutions focus on forecasting labor requirements against workloads over time. This allows distribution operations to redirect resources where they are needed most, ensuring better workforce utilization and productivity.
3. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)
Modern WMS solutions are leveraging AI and ML to enable autonomous operations. Unlike traditional systems that require constant human interaction, these technologies adapt to changes on the warehouse floor, supporting features like:
- Waveless order processing.
- Continuous task and allocation optimization.
4. Automated Material Handling Systems
Some WMS providers now offer automated material handling systems, including:
- Autonomous mobile robots (AMRs).
- Smart pick carts.
- Pick-to-light and put-to-light solutions.
These systems improve order accuracy, reduce manual labor, and enhance operational efficiency.
A version of this article originally appeared in SupplyChainBrain.
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