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5 Things to Consider when Choosing a WMS

11/3/15

 

Choosing a good WMS (warehouse management system) is great for customer service and client satisfaction, not to mention being beneficial to your staff and increasing the profitability of your business.

But if you choose not to invest in a good warehouse management system you could face a constant battle to keep a stable customer base and run a successful business.

So, what are the things that you should you look for when choosing a WMS?

Here are 5 key qualities that your WMS should have.

1. Ease of use

Choosing a WMS that’s easy to use makes sensse, so you can reduce the amount of time you spend on employee training – from pickers in the warehouse to senior management.

Well-designed software will mean less time setting up and monitoring daily operations, so everyone is able to adapt to new requirements quickly and easily.

Easy to follow menus and help screens can improve usability and a good WMS will also allow for simplified data entry and creation of template reports and charts.

Basically, if it’s easy to use then it will be beneficial to your business.

2. Flexibility

A WMS solution needs to be able to keep up with your company’s growth as well as adapt to meet future requirements of both your staff and customers.

Unless this is a realistic possibility, it’s not a long-term WMS solution that’s suitable for an ambitious business.

You also need to ensure that when choosing a  WMS you choose one that will adapt to advances in software development, otherwise it will become redundant very quickly.

3. Return on Investment

A poorly chosen warehouse management system could end up costing you more than it saves, as you attempt to solve problems with costly integration or customisation work to fit your own requirements.

Low upfront cost may be tempting, but may cost you more  if the WMS solution you choose is unable to meet your needs as your business grows and develops. That’s why it’s crucial to look at the overall value of a WMS solution.

So think to yourself: does the pricier WMS do more compared to the cheaper option and will it offer your business more over time?

If so, then that’s the one for you.

4. Data Collection

It’s one thing to have metrics that help you track performance of your warehouse operations; but if you can’t analyse that data then it is of no use to you or your business.

A good WMS should allow you to create reports and charts that let you see how your warehouse is running, with little fuss or complication.

When choosing a WMS you need to consider whether you’ll receive performance metrics that are easy understand, that will also allow you set new goals for your company.

5. Integration

Choosing a WMS that you know that is compatible with all the other software packages and ERP systems on the market is vital.

Your WMS has to work in conjunction with a range of other packages to keep a business running, as well as making it successful – that’s why it’s so important that you choose a system that integrates seamlessly.

Conclusion

Now you know what to look for, the features and benefits you need, and how it will help grow your business, why not think about choosing a WMS from Optima?

Contact Us on 01270 500777 today, and tell us what you need.