While it is true that there are still many functional Distribution Centers that have manual processes, leaving automation aside; it is also true that these Distribution Centers have multiple problems that sometimes are not even standardized as "areas for improvement". For example:
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They have a margin of error of at least 20% in each operation.
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They cannot accept a more robust operating flow.
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They have high turnover and loss with so many learning curves.
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They do not grow, because they cannot operate anymore.
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They have visual, physical and auditory pollution on a daily basis.
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They constantly ask for more operators.
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They fail to create operational projections for the Distribution Center.
In this blog we will talk about the WCS / WES and how it reveals the intelligence and effectiveness of the Distribution Center.
How do the WCS and WES help in the Distribution Center?
Both the WES (Warehouse Execution System) and the WCS (Warehouse Control System) help to improve the processes themselves and enrich the intelligent dynamics of the Distribution Center. Let's know more about its benefits.
WES (Warehouse Execution System):
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Allows the optimization of each of the automated processes within the Distribution Center through sophisticated intelligent algorithms. It is capable of adapting to trends, demand, and the needs of the operation.
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The specialized suite "Execute WES" offers high operational certainty.
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Not only gives you visibility into the operational flow, it also allows you to provide valuable information that contributes to the effective analysis of data and scenarios.
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WES allows more administrative functions to be covered, such as inventory management, replenishment, labor and order shipping, as well as control of automation technologies, such as Picking Technologies or Sorters.
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The WES is capable of interpreting when there are certain SKUs that must change from high rotation to medium or low rotation.
WCS (Warehouse Control System):
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The WCS is highly required software as a central management system and automation control system respectively,
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In addition, if there are already automatisms such as Pick to Light, Put to Light, Draw Systems, the WCS can interpret changes in the process, thus managing the entire operation.
How do I know if I need WES or WCS??
And we come to the most frequently asked question when a client comes to us: How do I know what software I need? The most ethical response from our engineering team will be the same: it depends on your level of automation and the level (robustness) of Distribution Center that you need to achieve.
The first thing will be to understand the differences between each of the systems, since in reality they are systems that complement each other, achieving certainty in automation and decision making.
If you need this level of intelligent Distribution Center, let us help you. Contact us here, our intralogistics engineering team will be happy to visit your operation and offer you a simulation of the production that you would achieve with a WES or a WCS.