What are the top WMS technologies and practices to learn for career development?

1 Cloud-based WMS

One of the most significant trends in WMS is the shift to cloud-based solutions. Cloud-based WMS offer several benefits over traditional on-premise systems, such as lower upfront costs, faster deployment, scalability, flexibility, and integration with other cloud services. Cloud-based WMS also enable real-time visibility and collaboration across multiple locations and devices, as well as access to advanced analytics and artificial intelligence. To learn cloud-based WMS, you should familiarize yourself with the features and functions of popular platforms, such as Oracle, SAP, or Microsoft Dynamics 365, and how they can be customized and configured to suit your warehouse needs.

2 Mobile WMS

Another key technology that is transforming WMS is mobile devices. Mobile WMS allow warehouse workers to use smartphones, tablets, or handheld scanners to perform various tasks, such as receiving, picking, packing, shipping, and inventory management. Mobile WMS can improve the speed, accuracy, and safety of warehouse operations, as well as reduce paper waste and human errors. Mobile WMS can also provide real-time data and feedback to managers and supervisors, who can monitor and optimize the performance of their teams. To learn mobile WMS, you should know how to use and troubleshoot common mobile applications and devices, such as Android, iOS, or Windows, and how to connect them to your WMS platform via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.

3 Barcode and RFID

Barcode and radio frequency identification (RFID) are two essential technologies that enable WMS to track and identify inventory and orders in a warehouse. Barcode and RFID use different methods to encode and transmit information, such as product name, quantity, location, or expiration date. Barcode use optical scanners to read printed labels or tags, while RFID use electromagnetic waves to read embedded chips or tags. Both technologies can help improve the accuracy, efficiency, and security of warehouse operations, as well as reduce labor costs and inventory shrinkage. To learn barcode and RFID, you should understand how they work, how they differ, and how they can be integrated with your WMS platform and mobile devices.

4 Lean and Six Sigma

Lean and Six Sigma are two popular methodologies that aim to improve the quality and efficiency of business processes, including warehouse operations. Lean focuses on eliminating waste and maximizing value, while Six Sigma focuses on reducing variation and defects. Both methodologies use data-driven tools and techniques, such as value stream mapping, 5S, Kaizen, DMAIC, or Kanban, to analyze and improve warehouse workflows and performance. Learning Lean and Six Sigma can help you identify and solve problems, streamline and standardize processes, increase customer satisfaction, and reduce costs and errors. To learn Lean and Six Sigma, you should enroll in online or in-person courses or certifications, such as the Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt.

5 Warehouse automation

Warehouse automation is the use of machines, robots, or software to perform warehouse tasks that are traditionally done by humans, such as sorting, stacking, picking, packing, or transporting. Warehouse automation can enhance the speed, accuracy, and safety of warehouse operations, as well as reduce labor and energy costs and increase storage capacity. Warehouse automation can also complement human workers by performing repetitive, tedious, or hazardous tasks, while freeing them to focus on more complex, creative, or value-added tasks. To learn warehouse automation, you should be familiar with the types and functions of common warehouse automation systems, such as conveyor belts, automated storage and retrieval systems, automated guided vehicles, or robotic arms, and how they can be controlled and integrated with your WMS platform and mobile devices.

6 Warehouse safety

Warehouse safety is the practice of preventing or minimizing injuries, accidents, or hazards in a warehouse environment. Warehouse safety is crucial for the health and well-being of warehouse workers, as well as for the quality and integrity of inventory and orders. Warehouse safety can also improve the efficiency and productivity of warehouse operations, as well as reduce legal and financial risks and liabilities. To learn warehouse safety, you should follow the best practices and regulations for warehouse safety, such as wearing appropriate personal protective equipment, following proper lifting and handling techniques, maintaining a clean and organized workspace, reporting and correcting any hazards or incidents, and undergoing regular training and audits.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?