Does Your Warehouse Really Need WCS to Operate More Effectively?
Managing a warehouse is a lot tougher and more complicated than it might seem. Every day involves a constant balancing act of tracking inventory, managing staff, and guaranteeing orders go out on time and correctly. Those who own warehouses know well that it’s a never-ending struggle to maintain efficiency and accuracy in an environment that is always on the go.
Mistakes can lead to bigger problems like angry customers, hence decreased profits.
If you’re feeling the pressure and therefore looking for ways to improve your warehouse operations, a WCS could be the answer. Read on to learn how implementing a WCS can make it easier to handle automation equipment, and ultimately help you overcome these common warehouse challenges.
Understanding WCS: The Central System of Automated Warehouse
If you want all your mechanical components to work and move the way they should, then you probably should consider introducing WCS to your warehouse. Why is that?
In plain English, WCS’s main role is to manage the operations of mechanical devices such as conveyors, stackers, and other automated elements in the warehouse. By doing so, it efficiently translates tasks received from the Warehouse Management System (WMS) into actionable operations.
How Does WCS Differ From WMS?
WCS is an integrated control system designed to operate in real-time and improve the flow of goods within the warehouse. It distinguishes itself from WMS in the scope of its operational control. A WMS synchronizes all operations, both manual and automated, while a WCS is one level below, and optimizes only the latter. For example, a WCS does not handle the specifics of goods location and storage or manage the logistics of their receipt or dispatch.
5 Most Important Features of WCS You May Find Useful
WCS is mainly used in highly automated warehouses. It has several important responsibilities you may consider introducing to your warehouse:
- Controlling and managing devices that handle goods.
Example: WCS might adjust conveyor speeds or direct a robotic arm to sort products based on their destination codes. - Gathering real-time data to keep operations running smoothly.
Example: WCS constantly collects data from sensors on equipment to detect any operational anomalies or bottlenecks. - Synchronizing activities to maintain efficiency.
Example: WCS coordinates the simultaneous operation of forklifts and palletizers to ensure that loading and unloading tasks are timed perfectly. - Planning and executing tasks derived from the WMS for automation equipment.
Example: WCS schedules the sequence of item picking by robots based on the priority and shipping times indicated by the WMS. - Monitoring operations and continuously updating the status of goods flow, using methods like email alerts to notify of any disruptions.
Example: WCS sends alerts if there is a delay in the supply chain or an equipment failure, allowing managers to take immediate corrective action.
In short, these features promote efficient warehouse operation, minimize efforts, and maximize productivity.
Wrapping Up: WCS for Higher Efficiency in Your Warehouse
By adopting a WCS, your warehouse can handle orders with great accuracy. The Warehouse Control System’s real-time automation promotes quicker order fulfillment. The improved efficiency means you can process orders faster, helping you increase your profits.
