WMS trends at Logistica 2009
ICT & Logistics, part of Logistica 2009, is with 120 exhibitors the most complete event for ICT solutions and services within the logistic chain. Some important trends on the field of Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) were:
- Labour management. Several suppliers showed modules aimed at improving the performance of the warehouse employees. These modules calculate how many people are necessary and who has to execute specific tasks at what time..
- For the next 3 years Software as a Service (SaaS) is the most important trend according to the suppliers. Software as a Service is a model where the supplier gives a license to the users in order to use the software as ‘service on demand’. Advantage for the user is that the costs are spread in time and are more in line with the expected improvements because of the WMS.
- Multiple suppliers show performance management tools where key performance indicators and management information is derived from available data. The information is often shown in a graphical and convenient way as a dashboard. (For an example have a look at VISION.BPI).
- Integration of WMS and TMS. Most important reason for integration of software in logistics processes are a faster and more accurate delivery to customers in combination with possibilities for cost reduction because of better planning of the entire process. Key element is better supply chain visibility that facilitates better decision making.
On this picture: Warehouse Process map at the Vanderlande Industries booth.