Optimize for supporting workers across the supply chain
Much of the pressure to make the warehouse more efficient falls on the workers. From task management to real-time adjustments to picking schedules, workers need as much support as possible if they are to improve year over year.
Tools that support workers with their daily tasks are the ones that will make the biggest impact, both immediately and in the future. Tasks like checking in a truck can be automated, with inventory and all necessary information uploaded in real-time as soon as the tires cross the gate. Not only is it one less thing for workers to worry about, but it also solves for the small mistakes that can cause major disruptions further down the line.
A warehouse powered by AI-solutions can also be organized so that every task is completed intuitively. Eliminate wasteful paths through daily slotting optimization, get the most out of robotics, and ensure that every truck is packed (and unpacked) in the most streamlined way possible.
The improvements won’t just show up on performance metrics. Workers will also feel more knowledgeable and effective with each of their daily tasks. Understanding the new opportunities available with technology is the first step towards gaining their enthusiasm for the tools. And enthusiasm is mandatory for getting the most out of your investments. Give your workers (and executives) what they want by optimizing your warehouse to support workers first.
Solve for blind spots without slowing down operations
Finally, to build an agile and resilient warehouse for the future, use tools that can identify blind spots in operations and suggest strategies for improving them. There will always be progress to be made with existing operations. Unexpected returns, sourced materials that aren’t up to standards, and other disruptions will create problems to be solved every day.
But to really thrive in the next few years, companies need to be proactive about improving their supply chain. For example, working towards organized, transparent data sharing between the warehouse, transportation, and planning will highlight where teams aren’t communicating efficiently, where updates are lagging, and what opportunities there are to reach goals faster.
Companies plan to make these adjustments, but time slips away. There is too much data and too many shifting factors to efficiently deploy relevant strategies in a timely fashion. With AI-powered solutions, data can be organized, analyzed, and used to build better strategies across the various teams.
In truth, to stay competitive, supply chain executives will need to make progress in all these areas. Investing now puts companies on the path to seeing immediate, and long-term, ROI, plus sets them up for scalable growth in the future.
