Top 8 WMS implementation challenges for 3PL companies

Implementing a new WMS system is a big step forward for 3PL companies. You have to overcome several challenges to make the transition as beneficial as possible. Let’s take a closer look at the top 8 WMS implementation challenges and get a better idea of how to deal with them.

#1 Selecting the right system and vendor

Many WMS systems are on the market; identifying the best options can be challenging. Every business has unique requirements that the system needs to fulfill. Company size and budget are often the main things to consider, but there is so much more.

Features should match the business needs across the board, and the vendor should be experienced and familiar with 3PL warehousing. Finding a vendor that truly acts like a partner and understands your specific industry will go a long way. We recommend reading customer testimonials, especially from similar businesses. Demos and trials can help compare different WMS systems in a more live environment.

#2 Data accuracy and processing

A modern WMS has to process large amounts of data, making a combination of accuracy and efficiency paramount. Suppliers, customers, goods, and other information has to be handled smoothly, and many warehouses also have further specific data requirements that need to be met.

Simply put multiple requests and complex data flows should not be an issue for your WMS. Ensuring data accuracy is important, and you should make sure that the system can provide adequate auditing and verification methods.?

#3 Level of customization

No one size fits all. Even cutting-edge WMS solutions have to be adapted to serve organizational needs best. It is likely that your business benefits from at least some customizations, while other parts can be based on standardized setups.?

Finding the right balance between standard functions and customizations can be tricky, but it is worth the effort. Some functionality can remain simple and standardized, while other parts need to be tweaked.?

#4 Integrations

The WMS needs to be well-integrated with other solutions in the company’s digital infrastructure. Have a close look at the available integrations, and your possible custom requirements. Can you integrate the different solutions effectively, and how much will it cost?

A good way to make this part easier is selecting a WMS with broad functionality, lessening the need for third-party integrations. Handling as many things as possible in one integrated system often provides you with a more efficient and accurate setup. Some cutting-edge vendors also develop middleware modules to streamline integrations.

#5 Navigation and location

A WMS system is there to increase efficiency, e.g. by providing navigation technologies like RFID and barcodes. In some cases, those solutions are not enough, and your warehouse will benefit from using advanced algorithms to determine the best paths and warehouse configurations. Large warehouses have especially much to gain from this, as small picking and packing optimizations can bring major long-term benefits.?

Finding the right solution and optimizing it requires consideration, and also a fitting WMS system. However, it is usually worth the effort, as effective warehouse navigation and picking is one of the biggest challenges in the industry.

#6 Wi-Fi reach and reliability

In most modern WMS setups, especially cloud-based ones, the system needs to be available on the move. High-speed Wi-Fi needs to be accessible inside the whole warehouse at all times, e.g. to keep handheld devices connected.

For large companies, it could mean setting up multiple Wi-Fi points across the warehouse, to ensure that employees are always connected to the system. If Wi-Fi connectivity is not perfect, it can be good to have some offline data storage functionality in place.

#7 Delays in the implementation process

Given the many aspects involved in a WMS implementation, it easily runs over its projected time and budget. Poor project planning and inexperience can lead to unexpected delays and technical issues. Decisions on things like data migration, error handling, and testing may prove costly in the long term.?

Choosing the right implementation partner is crucial to set up a viable plan. You should also establish a clear division of responsibilities between your business and the WMS vendor. Being realistic is important because an overly stressful or unclear plan might cause costly mistakes, setting the process back even further.?

#8 Change management

A WMS implementation brings change, and employees might initially be resistant to an unfamiliar technical solution. Daily processes will look different, and in some cases, it will take some time to understand how the new WMS works. If the employees do not embrace the new system, it will affect productivity and efficiency.?

Involving stakeholders, such as warehouse employees, in the WMS implementation process is a good move, ensuring that their input is considered. Extensive training sessions are also a good way to smooth the transition. Well-planned change management will allow you to get the most out of the new system, in the short- and long-term.

Conclusion

Implementing a WMS system poses challenges for 3PL companies, but by following these steps you can make the transition a lot easier. We recommend putting together an elaborate implementation plan, including all important aspects. Planning and having a solid overview will pay off later, as you will be more likely to avoid common WMS implementation pitfalls.?

Introducing nyce.logic

The nyce.logic WMS allows your business to enter the new era of warehousing and logistics. Say goodbye to spiraling IT costs, expensive customizations, manual processes, and other ineffective warehouse practices. We have decades of supply chain experience, and nyce.logic is trusted by several leading 3PL experts. It is a system that delivers results in weeks, rather than months (or years!).?

The combination of a scalable solution, long-term partnerships, and the customers’ ability to influence the product roadmap, is where nyce.logic excels.