Ten simple steps: How you can select a Warehouse Management System
Stage 1: Getting started
A number of challenges are involved in the selection process for warehouse management systems, especially with the increasing number of options that are available in the Middle East. During the initial stage, for example, convincing your management team to invest in the technology is sometimes a major hurdle. Although the majority of executives will appreciate the importance of accounting systems, they might need a little more convincing when it comes to warehouse management systems, particularly with the global recession. Putting together a solid proposal, with direct and indirect benefits, is therefore essential.
Stage 2: Form a project team
Assemble a team of colleagues to help determine how the warehouse management system will be utilised and what features should be included. Depending on the size of your company, members of the team could include warehouse managers, IT executives and senior representatives from the finance department. Each person’s role should be clearly defined, together with their level of involvement and decision-making during the purchasing process. It’s also important to highlight the amount of time and effort that will be required from each person and remember that work priorities might need to be restructured as a result.
Stage 3: Evaluate your current procedures
To achieve the maximum benefits from a warehouse management system, it’s essential to analyse your company’s supply chain operations. A solid understanding of strengths and weaknesses will increase the success-rate of the system that is finally selected. Encourage your team members to be candid about their frustrations from an internal and external point of view - in other words, how your warehouse interacts with different departments in the company, in addition to suppliers and customers.
Stage 4: Create your list of required functions
After deciding on the key factors that need improvement in your supply chain operations, these should be prioritised by each member of the team, with items being labelled as essential, greatly desired or additional bonuses. Achieve a general consensus within the team, defining the rank of each function and combining them into a prioritised list. Once completed, you are ready to produce a formal list of required functions, which will quickly help to eliminate the systems that failed to meet your needs. Don’t forget to include the hard-to-quantify benefits, such as maximising the productivity of your warehouse staff and allowing them to concentrate on core activities, rather than unnecessary, time-consuming tasks.
Stage 5: Consider the benefits of back-office integration
Selecting a warehouse management system that integrates with your ERP system will ensure the complete control and flow of information between your back-office and warehouse floor. Therefore, look for a smooth-running system that can synchronise your warehouse activities with your accounting data, supplying in-depth information across the enterprise. Just as important, an integrated will support your web orders and EDI needs, and send back Advance Ship Notices (ASNs) to notify customers of incoming shipments.
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