A critical component in material handling is the application software and controls designed to improve productivity and provide real-time access to processes. These warehouse control systems (WCS) are a way of controlling the narrative in the flow of processes and overall operations. Think of a WCS as the conductor to an orchestra—the software application system in place that orchestrates activity flow within the distribution and warehouse facilities. The purpose of a WCS is to coordinate material handling equipment, to include conveyors, carousels, and sorters, with one another.

As with any business operation, communication is key, and implementing a WCS system is the precise communication to allow material handling applications to continuously ‘talk’ to one another in effectively making for a smooth and seamless process. WCS systems act as the traffic cops on busy intersection. They are there to manage all automated warehouse tasks within. With a WCS, your facility receives real-time visibility, insight, and management into daily operations and the data that is collected through the system. WCS’ determine the best way to move product, communicating orders to the material handling equipment to achieve a desired result.

Evaluating the benefits of implementing a WCS seems to be a no brainer. The impact will be immediate. Warehouse processes should be efficiently streamlined. Simple in context, WCS improves end-of-line operations, ensuring operational accuracy, and provides a wealth of information to the overall optimization of your facility. The data obtained from these systems can assist in the future planning and growth of your operation as it provides a road map, of sorts, to your entire initiative. It provides a sweet synchronization to the production process of your operation.

Benefits of WCS Implementation

• Enhanced visibility into daily tasks and processes
• Continuous flow of work between employees/operators and automated equipment
• Optimized product movement
• Increased efficiency and productivity of material handling

When looking to control the narrative of your warehouse operations, there should be no doubt that a WCS implementation would be a vital ingredient to streamline its processes. And when that collaboration between employees/operators and the automated equipment and technologies that handle your material merge, a WCS is proven to be most effective and productive.  

Author: Heather Connors, Director of Marketing, Conveyor Handling Company