Any 3PL operating in today’s rapidly changing business environment wants a Warehouse Management Software program that is flexible, cost-effective and that improves the efficiency of overall operations. Productivity is paramount and by extension, keeping track of all component parts that drive productivity is essential. Activities like accounting for inventory levels, effective and comprehensive use of warehouse space, accuracy in picking and packing, rapid and accurate customer fulfillment rates, along with strong productivity levels from staff, are just a few categories vital in managing any well-run 3PL.
Having a sophisticated and robust warehouse management software program that is flexible, offering ample opportunity for expansion as your business and customer base grows cannot be overstated. But what should warehouse managers and operators be looking for in deciding if a new system is needed? Several elements surface in aiding the decision-making process. Overall, if your current system inhibits your ability to perform competitive business strategies, it’s time to investigate further.
Replacing a WMS can be costly but there are far greater risks in not replacing a slow or outdated system. Below are five key indicators we recommend that aid warehouse operators in the decision-making process and can help shape the selection for a stronger WMS.
- System structure or architecture: do your customers require new value-added services that you have difficulty in providing? Does your system thwart adaptation or is it slowed when workarounds are created? A reduction in work productivity due to loss of real-time data creates potential revenue reductions; a new WMS is warranted as both a cost-saving device and customer-retention effort.
- Innovation Capabilities: Does your WMS offer creative solutions for add-on functions you may need in the future? Does your warehouse management software provider have the expertise to develop new tools such as RF enhancements or voice picking? Without sufficient software expertise your WMS will be unable to contend with competitive requirements and growth goals.
- Costly Upgrades and Support: Is your WMS dated—an older version of limited functionality that requires frequent upgrades and support? Frequent upgrades nearly always translate into more costs. In addition, support personnel required to maintain an older system can be hard to find. Another risky downside of an older WMS can be slower operations resulting in unsatisfied customers, unproductive labor, delayed shipping, or worse.
- External Requirements: Any 3PL with customers expanding into new markets, requiring new languages, or struggling with governmental restrictions needs to have a WMS that can adapt. Can your provider meet the challenges of imposed regulations? This can range from new labeling to transporting and distributing goods in particular ways. If your current WMS cannot meet these challenges, it is time to replace it.
- Unavoidable Expensive Upgrades: If your current WMS upgrades have been excessively expensive due to code designs or customization with built in limits, it is time to replace your system. Besides the initial expenses, time lost due to changes can hurt your business. One of the wisest and most cost-effective WMS 3PL’s can procure is a web-based provider.
No matter the size of your company, to stay competitive in the marketplace today it is essential to provide a vibrant 3PL Software WMS service. What used to be considered unattainable to small or mid-sized 3PL’s is not only within reach, it is a vital tool necessary to carry on the daily tasks for a thriving and profitable warehouse operation. Paper-based or legacy systems no longer provide the sort of efficiency required in the global arena. Technology that offers accessibility to all users in real time is critical. Moreover, 3PL software is available that streamlines daily operations, provides transparency, is user-friendly and cost-effective to own and operate.
In sum, if any of these conditions are impacting your ability to manage your 3PL effectively and efficiently, visit www.3plcentral.com for information on how you can replace your WMS.
