From warehousing robotics to automated conveyor systems, incorporating automated technology into your facility is an absolute must if you want to maintain pace with the rest of the industry. A lot of facility managers get scared off the idea of adding automated equipment, whether they’re worried about replacing employees with technology or it’s down to a general fear of the unknown. But the reality is that warehouse managers looking to increase productivity, reduce human error, and enjoy cost savings need to start thinking about the future if they want quality results.
In this blog, we’ll talk about cutting-edge technology including warehouse automation software and other kinds of material handling equipment can not only simplify your warehouse operations, but improve efficiency across the board.
Pay Attention to These Automation Trends
When you work with outdated technology that’s well behind the industry standard, every area of your supply chain is going to suffer. From maintaining a real-time inventory management system to transporting goods from one part of your facility to another, every area lags behind when you rely on manual processes.
That’s why we always have our finger on the pulse for the latest developments. Ranging from cutting-edge software solutions to automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS), Southwest Warehouse Solutions carries a broad range of equipment and machinery from industry-leading manufacturers designed to minimize downtime. If you’re looking to incorporate new automated technology equipment into your workflow, keep an eye out for these trends.
Sophisticated Automated Vehicles
Efficient transportation is a crucial part of every warehouse, but what if you’re not moving materials as efficiently as you could be? Automated guided vehicles (AGV) are the answer. AGV systems are used for everything from inventory control to sorting SKUs, making them the perfect fit for facilities in need of a multi-purpose solution. Delivering goods from one part of your warehouse to another has never been easier than it is with an AGV system.
Centralized Information Hubs
There are so many moving parts in every warehouse facility. Are you taking the time to make sure all of the information you need is in one convenient place? Crucial messages and real-time statistics can easily slip through the cracks if you’re not diligent about maintaining your information storage. And while data storage and barcode scanners are nothing new, the system in which that information is organized is rapidly evolving into something more. Warehouse management systems are an effective way to keep track of your goods-to-person statistics, order fulfillment, and anything else you absolutely need to know.
System Integration Solutions
If you want to achieve maximum performance, you need control over every single detail of your facility. Warehouse control systems and system integration solutions are designed to give users a broad-yet-refined overview of all of the machinery they operate. A successful facility is a cohesive one; make sure your entire team is all on the same page with system integration solutions.
AS/RS
Otherwise known as automated storage and retrieval systems, AS/RS operate in a similar capacity to system integration and warehouse management systems, albeit with a more specific scope. While AS/RS systems do streamline your operations and provide a centralized resource, they’re more in keeping with AGVs in terms of what they accomplish. AS/RS replaces the need for potentially dangerous human labor while delivering an accurate solution for your workflow. They also allow you to utilize your space more effectively, freeing up room for more inventory and a less congested facility.
The Future is Now—Are you Prepared?
The longer you wait for your current system of operations to become outdated, the further behind the industry standard you’ll fall. Are you ready to take that next step into the future of work? Companies around the world have already begun reaping the benefits of automated technology, and Southwest Warehouse Solutions wants to help you take that next step.
With a team of dedicated professionals all focused on helping your company work smarter (not harder), there’s no limit to what you can achieve when the right provider installs the right technology in your facility. At SWWS, our only goal is to deliver solutions that make sense for your budget, scope, and future goals. For more information on how we can help you reach that next level of performance, reach out to our team today.
