INDUSTRY VIEW vein , it can give third party logistics an advantage as they move complex merchandise mixes across numerous categories for high volumes of customers .
Integrating robotics with WMS
Yet despite this shift , many organisations are realising that to realise the full potential of robotics , it must 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 .
In fact , according to Gartner 95 % of supply chain organisations have either invested , or plan to invest , in cyber-physical automation , with a considerable proportion of those planning in using intralogistics smart robots , ISRs . Labour availability constraints are the primary driver behind investments in robotics according to 66 %.
As technology continues to improve , robotics-as-a-service gains further momentum , and prices decrease , the question is no longer
Key takeaways
• The opportunity for RoI is huge , as travel and movement of goods across the warehouse typically commands , time , and money .
• Robots in the warehouse make it simpler and more efficient to move both batches and individual picks , mitigating risk through increasing safety on the shop floor .
• As many organisations bring their warehouse operations back in-house to realise greater control , robotics can instil flexibility .
• According to Gartner , 95 % of supply chain organisations have either invested , or plan to invest , in cyber- physical automation .
• Labour availability constraints are the primary driver behind investments in robotics according to 66 %.
• Organisations are realising to realise the potential of robotics , it must go hand in hand with a modern , cloudbased WMS platform .
• There is no doubt that the supply chain of the future is likely to see continued growth of autonomous robots .
• Success will depend on the extent to which a modern WMS is leveraged to integrate and optimise workflows .
Drones can undertake detailed stock counts at night , eliminating a need for people to physically check inventory .
whether to capitalise on robotics , but in what way , and how soon .
What is certain , is that the success will depend 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 . •
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