Learn about WMS enhanced software for optimal Distribution Center management

When we talk about software to have efficient warehouse control, we automatically think of a Warehouse Management System (WMS). However, due to the changes that have occurred in recent years within the logistics market due to the implementation of automation, the WMS has become a solution that does not cover all the requirements to meet this type of technology.

Why? While it is true that the WMS is a software with a high level of development for the years it has been on the market, the reality is that it is not completely designed for real-time operation with automation. Its main attribute is to provide complete visibility from an administrative point of view within the Distribution Center.

Which conditions does a WMS require the support of other software?

When a DC decides to implement some smarter assortment system such as Pick to light, Pick to voice or Put to light or when automated or semi-automated sorting systems are placed, it is when more specialized software is required that allow for more versatile and fast communication between systems and, also faster than the WMS in their decision-making.

What do we mean by "decision-making"? We know that the role of WMS is to serve a large volume of definitions throughout DC by all users; however, the WMS design prevents it from easily determining which of them has the highest priority when there are automated.

Therefore, we at G.I.Eicom recommend implementing a Warehouse Control System (WCS) or Warehouse Execute System (WES) when there is the presence of automated systems in DC.

Let's get to know a little more in detail how each one works!

• Warehouse Control System (WCS)

The WCS is the first software that starts to support WMS when in CEDIS we find one or two automation systems.

How does it work? The WMS is responsible for sending the tasks that the automation are executing to the WCS to make important decisions immediately as required by the system.

At the end, when automated systems complete their functions, the WCS continues to report to the WMS about how the processes ended.

Being a specific software for automated systems, communication between the two softwares brings greater agility and flexibility to the operation of the Distribution Center.

• Warehouse Execute System (WES)

When a Distribution Center is 100% automated, THE WMS still exists but it becomes necessary to have other even more specialized software because a much more agile, accurate level of execution is required and with specialized algorithms for technologies to work in synchronization, to fulfill the assortment of orders.

This is where the WES intervenes, as this software is specifically designed to respond immediately to all the automations with the necessary requirements.

The WMS sends assortment orders to the WES, but what this software does is distribute them intelligently to each automation, maintaining a constant reporting of the operating status.

Implementing these more advanced software to complement WMS management will help you optimize both the assortment of orders in your DC and the overall performance of your operation.

At G.I.Eicom we seek to be your allies to enhance the efficiency of your operation. We are dedicated to developing comprehensive automation solutions that boost the productivity of Distribution Centers.

We have more than 35 years of experience in the successful design and implementation of turnkey solutions for the logistics industry. Contact us and learn more about our services!