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Robots in the warehouse , which typically take the form of , make it simpler and more efficient to move both batches and individual picks , not only reducing reliance on labour , but mitigating risk through increasing safety on the shop floor .
Similarly , drones can undertake detailed stock counts at night , eliminating a need for people to physically check inventory .
As many organisations bring their warehouse operations back in-house to realise greater control in the wake of unprecedented complexity and uncertainty , robotics can instil flexibility . In a similar vein , it can give 3PLs an advantage as they move complex merchandise mixes across numerous categories for high volumes of customers .
# 3 Robotics with WMS
Yet despite this shift , many organisations are realising that in order to realise the full potential of robotics , it has to go hand in hand with a modern , cloud-based WMS platform . Without a system which can be easily integrated via APIs , and seamlessly talk to the robots , interpret data , and inform workflows , robotics can only extend so far , limiting potential and impeding ROI .
While robotics can represent a game changer in automation and efficiency , allowing people to shift to more strategic , less dangerous , and higher value work , an effective WMS platform is the core foundation of the warehouse . Through facilitating seamless flow of data and insights spanning sales orders , picking , packing and fulfilment , the potential of robotics can be truly maximised .
As technology continues to improve , robotics-asa-service gains further momentum , and prices decrease , the question is no longer whether to capitalise on robotics , but in what way , and how soon .
As technology continues to improve , robotics-as-a-service gains further momentum , and prices decrease , the question is no longer whether to capitalise on robotics , but in what way , and how soon .
What is certain , is that the success will depend largely on the extent to which a modern WMS is leveraged to integrate and optimise workflows . There is no doubt that the supply chain of the future is likely to see continued growth of autonomous robots . Those who get it right will not only improve the speed and accuracy of routine operations right now , but ensure flexibility and agility to adapt in the future as market conditions and dynamics dictate . •
Integrating robotics and WMS
• The opportunity for ROI is huge , as travel and movement of goods across the warehouse commands the most time and money .
• The emergence of robotics-as-aservice has changed the game , bringing robotics-led innovation to warehouses .
• Drones can undertake stock counts at night , eliminating the need for people to physically check inventory .
• While robotics represents a game changer in automation and efficiency , an effective WMS platform is the core foundation of the warehouse .
• Through seamless flow of data and insights spanning sales orders , picking , packing and fulfilment , the potential of robotics can be maximised .
• What is certain , is that the success will depend on the extent to which a modern WMS is leveraged to integrate and optimise workflows .
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