What is a Warehouse Management System?

A warehouse management system (WMS) is a piece of computer software that supports your managers in the handling, storage and movement of materials in and around your facility. The basic logic of a WMS uses a combination of the item, quantity, location, unit of measure and information about each order.

Traditional WMS functionality

The functionality of a warehouse management system is usually broken down into three core directed operations.

• Putaway
• Replenishment
• Picking

Warehouse managers can define specific criteria to direct these three operations to their precise locations, determining where to pick, where to stock, and the sequence in which these operations are performed.

WMS are often set up to integrate directly with a data-collection system.

Recent WMS evolution

The software behind warehouse management systems is evolving. System functionality has developed to include transportation management, light manufacturing, complete accounting systems and order management.

This expansion has caused an overlap in functions between warehouse management systems and other essential company systems. This overlap can cause unwanted confusion when companies search for operation software solutions, especially when providers offer significant differences in their setup and processing options.

The business benefits of a WMS

Key benefits of using a WMS include:

• Increased accuracy
• Reduced labour costs
• Reduced long-term cycle times
• Improved customer service

How TouchPath improves your efficiency

TouchPath improves your efficiency by extending the functionality of your ERP or other back office systems onto the shop floor and into the warehouse.

With TouchPath you benefit from

• Sophisticated stock allocation routines
• Validation checks
• Warehouse slotting
• Auto-replenishment
• Advance Shipping Notice (ASN) support
• Single scan receipt of ERP purchase orders