5 Innovative Warehouse Management Technologies
Machine-to-Machine Technology
Over the last few years, machine-to-machine technology, or M2M, has greatly evolved into more sophisticated systems that help monitor and streamline all automation aspects of warehouse operations. When combined with warehouse management systems (WMS), the latest M2M systems are making it easier to control all equipment within the warehouse that is vital to the order fulfillment process.
This technology helps collect and trade information that provides warehouse managers with actionable information that can verify operational procedures and expedite decisions.
Order Fulfillment Optimization Technology
Every warehouse should consider introducing the latest order fulfillment technology in the market. Different warehouse technology solutions are available to help maximize order picking productivity and boost accuracy. There are two main solutions: Pick-by-Light and Put-by-Light. These technologies help automate warehouse processes and offer a more efficient and lower cost solution over manual picking methods.
Warehouse Robotics Technology
New robotics technology has become one of the most sought-after technologies for warehouse management. Leading-edge manufacturers are partnering with providers of warehouse management systems to create customized software and smart robots that help manage the movement, storage and sorting of warehouse inventory.
Investing in warehouse robotics technology will highly benefit you. With increasing order volumes, numerous products to navigate, highly personalised order packing and faster shipping requirements, robotics solutions will help you effectively respond to volume growth and perform more tasks with less labour and at a lower cost.
Benefits of Warehouse Robotics: 1. Reduced operational and labour costs; 2. Improved productivity; 3. Higher order accuracy; 4. Faster cycle times; 5. Reduced safety incidents.
The increasing demand for higher levels of performance and flexibility in warehouse robotics is stimulating some innovative product developments and early adoptions of mobile warehouse robotics. As a warehouse manager, you should choose robotics technology that best suits your needs.
Voice Tasking Technology
This is a hands-free technology that uses spoken commands for picking, putting, receiving, replenishing and warehouse shipping functions. This technology is almost similar to RF technology and is a flexible choice for order fulfillment.
Benefits of Voice Tasking Technology:
1. Improved picking productivity; 2. Increased picking accuracy; 3. Requires less operator training; 4. Improved system control; 5. Real-time data analysis and communications; 6. Higher ROI.
The Future of Warehouse Management Technology
As more advanced technology is introduced for the warehousing and logistics sectors, it is up to warehouse managers and firms to stay updated on the latest innovations. Upcoming technologies like Pick-by-Vision, Electronic Data Exchange and the use of drones will soon become mainstream in the industry. Implementation of the right technologies will be key to the smooth operations of warehouses and supply chains.
(http://cerasis.com/2016/12/21/warehouse-management/)