Warehouse Management System is a group of computer programs that helps a distributor to control and perform warehouse operations more quickly and with fewer errors. By optimizing the picking, packing and shipping of orders, and guiding inventory, the WMS aims at a paperless environment within the warehouse.
WMS ranges in complexity. Earlier, WMS used to provide only simple functions like storage location information. But with advancements in software technology, its functions vary greatly from basic tools to highly sophisticated systems that even replace workers.
Types of WMS:
There are different types of WMS with numerous options within them. There are basically three types of WMS:
- Standalone Warehouse Management System
- Integrated ERP and
- Cloud-based Warehouse Management System
· Standalone Warehouse Management System is a typical third-party on-premise system. Even though this is a low cost option, integrating it with the existing business software is a tedious process and may involve information silos, interface issues and challenges in customization.
· Integrated ERP is a powerful software program that can be built into your ERP solution. It provides accounting sales orders, shipping management, and other features, granting employee accountability, business-wide traceability, and responsiveness.
· Cloud-based WMS is a web-based software system that is agile, easily customizable and highly scalable.
Why should you have a WMS for your business?
- Increased productivity: By automating all processes from sorting, picking, allocating, up to dispatching, work becomes seamless thereby enhancing productivity.
- Paperless system: It not only reduces errors but also keeps track of data electronically resulting in saving time and cost involved.
- Inbound and outbound movements: Picking and dispatching are the most time-consuming processes which need proper planning and execution. WMS software makes these operations ideal.
- Track record: Real-time tracking is an asset to companies, mainly for maintaining inventory. WMS helps to view the stock and prepare for further actions.
- Scanning and bar-coding: A warehouse management system aids in identifying packages using their bar-codes and sorting various payloads like cartons, cases, and other packages.
- Proper location: This feature provides an accurate location of the different categories of stock thus eliminating hassles. It also assists in the easy movement of goods in the warehouse.
To conclude, WMS is such an application that enables simplified and smooth running of warehouse functionalities, reducing operational cost, ensuring accuracy, and improving business productivity.
Origami offers a cloud-based warehouse management system that integrates seamlessly into your existing business software. The warehouse operations of no two organizations are the same. Any software system purchased will require customization to suit your business needs. And Origami, with its API based approach, allows easy customization at affordable costs in no time.
