The Amazing Power of WMS: It’s Revolutionizing Operations
WMS
WMS is the software that any warehouse uses to track inventory. So, what’s the big deal? Why should you care about what software a warehouse chooses? Aren’t they all the same? Don’t they all perform the same functions? The short answer is yes and no. Let me explain.
The Similarities In WMS
Let’s begin with, are they all the same? If all warehouse software were the same, there wouldn’t be a need for so many software vendors. There are, however, many similarities between different software systems. For instance, all of them will track inventory, and they will all produce reports, and in this day and age, most will allow users to view inventory online. Are there requirements you need from the software that exceed that?
The Differences
The differences in warehouse software can be plentiful. These differences can vary from simple to very complex. If your inventory is tracked by item and quantity only, then a warehouse with a basic WMS is probably fine. If you are a client with more detailed requirements, such as lot tracking, serial number accounting, code date requirements, or other specific needs, a simple software system won’t be adequate to handle your needs.
What to Look For
You are right, it’s easy to sit here and speak about WMS software because I’m familiar with it. What if you aren’t? What should you look for when interviewing or visiting a warehouse? The first thing I would tell you is to determine who works with the software and talk to them. Ask them pointed questions about the software they use. Ask specific questions regarding your needs in inventory control. If, as the client, you require a particular billing setup, can the system accommodate it? Remember that when discussing software, there isn’t any detail that is too small. I always suggest that a visiting client or potential client write down questions and bring those to the meeting.
In my opinion, some features should be available as standard options in the warehouse WMS. The WMS should be able to track inventory in a variety of ways, such as by lot number, serial number, code date, and it should be able to use multiple details on a per-item basis. An example of this is tracking an item by item number, lot number, and code date. Also, the software should have flexibility in terms of how rates are set up and charged. Another standard for software systems is the use of web-based inventory viewing.
To sum it all up, make sure you ask questions that are specific to your business.
