La entrada Warehouse automation robots key to Logistics 4.0 and business competitivity se publicó primero en APPIAGROUP.IO.

The challenge

Recently, Addoc Logistic was faced with the challenge of finding a new logistics software that would satisfy the demands of the logistics sector and that would include a technical support team specialised in logistics solutions. Although the company had an existing WMS, it decided to look for an alternative due to its obsolescence in terms of radio frequency, as well as its slowness in terms of documentation and stock counting.

Although the company had an existing WMS, it decided to look for an alternative due to its obsolescence in terms of radio frequency, as well as its slowness in terms of documentation and stock counting.

"Talking to other logistics software companies, we saw that they were not specialised in logistics solutions. They were generic software that didn't do everything we needed. When we spoke to APPIA GROUP, we immediately saw that they were experts in logistics"

Jordi Rios

CEO at ADDOC LOGISTIC S.L.

The solution

Thanks to APPIA.adp, the WMS specialised in 3PL services, we were able to optimise and automate Aries Logistic's storage processes. The result was a significant improvement in the quality of service offered to its customers.

The migration process carried out by the APPIA GROUP team for Aries Logistic was quite complex. The customer database was diverse and robust. Some of them required integration with their ERP, but others did not have any external software, so APPIA GROUP's team had to work all the information from scratch.

"You have agility at every point in the supply chain. It is a very complete system that is also backed up by a fast and efficient technical support team."

Isaac Rojano Úbeda

Operations Manager at ADDOC LOGISTIC S.L.

The results

- We have gained new clients with important operations thanks to APPIA GROUP.

- We have reduced manual documentation tasks by more than 50%.

“Toda nuestra actividad laboral en almacén la afrontábamos con programas adaptados u hojas de cálculo. Nuestro desafío consistía en informatizar todos los procesos.”

Isaac Rojano Úbeda​

Operations Manager at ADDOC LOGISTIC S.L

What would you highlight about APPIA GROUP?

Having APPIA GROUP behind us means peace of mind and security. Now we have no evolution limit, we can work on huge projects with big clients because we have the security of working with APPIA GROUP

Jordi Rios, CEO at ADDOC LOGISTIC S.L.

La entrada ADDOC Logistic se publicó primero en APPIAGROUP.IO.

The challenge

The operations of DECERO SERVICIOS LOGISTICOS (DCR) initially were focused on stock control, with manual recording of delivery notes and outgoing goods.

In the year 2000, they began to manage a multi-customer catalogue with several references, and started to be immersed in picking management. This growth led them to look for solutions that would not only keep up the pace, but also offer a more professional service to customers, most of whom were unfamiliar with many aspects of their business.

‘All our work in the warehouse was done with customised programmes or spreadsheets. Our challenge was to digitalise all the processes’

Sergio Vela,

CEO at Decero Servicios Logisticos S.L.

The solution

With the APPIA.adp warehouse management system, we achieved efficient control of all outgoing goods, ensuring accurate traceability.

Another area of high impact was invoicing, where the programme made a significant contribution, offering total control.

APPIA.adp not only helped us to position ourselves in the market, but also strengthened our customer relationships. It was a fundamental step in our growth

Sergio Vela,

Sergio Vela, CEO at Decero Servicios Logisticos S.L

The results

The results that DCR has achieved over the years are reflected in numerous customers.

All our work in the warehouse was done on spreadsheets. Our challenge was to digitalise all the processes

Sergio Vela,

CEO at Decero Servicios Logisticos S.L

What would you highlight about APPIA GROUP?

For me the experience with APPIA GROUP is excellent. Whenever I have had a problem, I have always found a solution. They offer us a tool that complements us and we have mastered. We are very grateful for the collaboration we have always had’

Sergio Vela, CEO at Decero Servicios Logisticos S.L.

La entrada Decero Logistics Services se publicó primero en APPIAGROUP.IO.

Understanding Cross Docking: A Revolutionary Approach

In a well-implemented cross docking system, products move seamlessly from their point of origin to their final destination, avoiding unnecessary storage in the warehouse. This approach contrasts with traditional methods, where goods are received, stored and then prepared for shipment, creating delays and increasing operating costs.

The Continuous Flow of Goods

In a well-implemented cross docking system, products move without interruption from their point of origin to their final destination, avoiding unnecessary storage in the warehouse. This approach contrasts with traditional methods, where goods are received, stored and then prepared for shipment, creating delays and increasing operating costs.

Key Benefits of Cross Docking

• Reduced Storage Costs: By minimizing or eliminating the need to store products in the warehouse, companies can save on costs associated with inventory maintenance and storage space. This cross-docking practice also contributes to stock control, maintaining a more accurate and reduced inventory.
• Delivery Agility: Cross-docking speeds up the delivery process by eliminating intermediate steps, resulting in shorter transit times and increased customer satisfaction. This efficiency translates into streamlined order tracking and an improved customer experience.
• Reduced Handling: By avoiding storage and subsequent order picking in the warehouse, handling of goods is reduced, which in turn reduces the risk of damage and loss. This benefit of cross-docking ensures that products arrive in optimal condition.
• Space Optimization: By not requiring large storage areas, cross-docking facilities can be more compact and efficient in terms of warehouse space utilization, optimizing resources and reducing operating costs.

Types of Cross Docking

There are several types of cross-docking, each adapted to different needs and flows of goods, offering flexibility and efficiency in supply chain management.

1. Consolidation Cross Docking: In this cross-docking modality, multiple shipments from different suppliers are consolidated at a single point and redistributed to a common destination, optimizing the transportation and distribution of goods.
2. Deconsolidation Cross Docking: On the contrary, in this case, a large shipment from one supplier is deconsolidated through the cross-docking process and distributed in smaller shipments to multiple destinations.
3. Continuous Cross Docking: This mode combines consolidation and deconsolidation operations in an uninterrupted manner, thanks to cross-docking, which makes it an ideal option for distribution centers with constant flows of goods.
4. Internal Cross Docking: In this variant, cross-docking is applied within the internal operations of the warehouse, such as transferring products directly from receiving to waiting orders or fixed picking locations, thus optimizing the picking process.

Warehouse Management Systems (WMS): The Key to Efficient Operations

While cross-docking focuses on optimizing the flow of goods, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) are essential tools for coordinating and controlling all logistics operations within a warehouse or distribution center, ensuring efficient management.

As companies grow and expand their operations, a WMS becomes increasingly necessary to maintain warehouse efficiency.

What is a WMS or warehouse software?

A WMS, or warehouse management system, is specialized software that allows companies to maintain a higher level of control and visibility over their warehousing operations. By implementing a WMS system, companies can track and monitor daily activities, such as goods receiving, warehousing and order picking, in real time, thanks to warehouse management software.

Implementing an efficient WMS system also includes the use of warehouse management software. This type of software provides warehouse managers and workers with the necessary tools to perform critical tasks at every stage of the logistics process. By using warehouse management software, companies can improve inventory accuracy, optimize workflows and reduce human error.

Main Functions Main Functions of a Warehouse Management System (WMS)

Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) offer a wide range of functions that help improve the efficiency and accuracy of warehouse operations, becoming a fundamental pillar of modern warehouse management.

1. Goods Receiving: WMSs enable accurate recording and tracking of all goods received in the warehouse. This includes verifying the quantity and quality of products, as well as updating inventory records, ensuring efficient warehouse management.
2. Warehousing and Stock Management: WMSs help organize and optimize storage space, ensuring that products are placed in the most appropriate locations. They also facilitate inventory management, providing real-time information on product availability and improving stock control.
3. Picking and Order Preparation: WMSs streamline the picking process in the warehouse by providing precise instructions on the location of products and the optimal picking sequence. In addition, they enable verification of picked products and efficient order preparation, significantly improving picking efficiency.
4. Returns management: WMSs also play a crucial role in managing the product returns process in the warehouse, recording and controlling returned products and facilitating their reintegration into inventory or shipment to suppliers, which optimizes returns management.
5. Quality Control: By incorporating quality control functions, WMSs enable inspection and testing of products prior to shipment from the warehouse, ensuring that established quality standards are met and maintaining the integrity of quality control.
6. Tracking and Tracing: WMSs enable comprehensive tracking of products from receipt to final delivery at the warehouse, providing detailed information on their location and status in real time, which is especially useful in cases of complaints or quality problems, improving order tracking.

Benefits of implementing a Warehouse Management System (WMS)

Implementing a Warehouse Management System (WMS) can bring numerous benefits to companies, including more efficient warehouse management, which translates into leaner and more profitable operations.

1. Improved Operational Efficiency: By optimizing warehouse operations, WMSs reduce processing times, minimize errors and increase employee productivity, resulting in more efficient and productive warehouse management.
2. Cost Reduction: By improving the efficiency and accuracy of warehouse operations, WMSs help reduce costs associated with storing, handling and shipping products, resulting in more effective cost management.
3. Increased Customer Satisfaction: WMSs improve accuracy and speed in order picking in the warehouse, resulting in higher customer satisfaction by receiving the right products on time, highlighting the importance of order tracking to the customer experience.
4. Improved Traceability and Inventory Control: By providing real-time visibility of inventory, WMSs facilitate decision making and demand planning in the warehouse. They also improve product traceability, which is especially important in sectors such as food and drugs, highlighting stock control as a crucial aspect.
5. Analysis and Reporting: By generating detailed reports and analysis of warehouse operations, WMSs enable the identification of areas for improvement, optimization of resource utilization and data-driven decision making, underscoring the importance of data-driven warehouse management for continuous optimization.

Conclusions

Both cross-docking and Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) are powerful tools for optimizing the supply chain and improving efficiency in logistics operations, making the warehouse a key management point.

Cross-docking allows a continuous flow of goods, minimizing storage times in the warehouse and speeding up delivery. WMSs help coordinate and control all operations within the warehouse, improving efficiency, reducing costs and increasing customer satisfaction.

Implementing these innovative solutions, such as cross-docking and WMS in the warehouse, can make a difference in a highly competitive market, enabling companies to adapt quickly to change and achieve a lasting competitive advantage.

La entrada Optimizing Supply Chain Efficiency: Exploring Cross Docking and Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) se publicó primero en APPIAGROUP.IO.

Among the most well-known and recent cases of cyber-attacks in the logistics sector are the one suffered just over a year ago by spare parts supplier TVH, which led to an interruption of its services and took weeks to become fully operational again; or the attack suffered by Kojima Industries Corporation, a supplier to Toyota, which forced the suspension of operations on 28 production lines at 14 plants in Japan for an entire day. This affected the manufacture of 17,000 cars, equivalent to one third of Toyota’s global production.

However, you don’t have to be a large company to become a target for cybercriminals. In fact, according to a report by Pandora FMS, in 2023 transport operators were the second most cyber-attacked group in the last year in Spain, and Gartner forecasts that attacks on supply chains will triple by 2025, which could affect 45% of companies worldwide.

Cyber-attacks on logistics companies can affect the security of their data, networks and computer systems, software and applications, communications, and even financial assets and means of payment. A breach in any of these channels can result in significant economic losses, as well as jeopardize the flow of the supply chain and, ultimately, the trust between the company and its customers and suppliers.

Which logistics areas are often targeted by cyber-attacks?

Logistics, with its network of suppliers, carriers and customers, presents an expanded attack surface for cybercriminals. The most affected points tend to be:

Transportation Management Systems (TMS)

TMS systems, used to manage and optimize transportation, are one of the most attractive targets for cyber attackers due to the amount of sensitive data they handle. They are often victims of ransomware, denial of service or DDoS attacks, phishing, SQL code injection, exploitation of software vulnerabilities or social engineering attacks.

Supply chain attacks

Supply chain attacks have become more frequent and sophisticated in recent years. These attacks aim to compromise a company’s security through its suppliers, business partners or related third parties. They are usually attacked by ransomware, malware, supply chain hijacking attacks, or attacks on supplier relationship management (SRM) systems.

In addition, there may be attacks on critical infrastructure such as warehouses, which could disrupt the flow of goods and services. In short, in an increasingly interconnected world, all points in the supply chain are vulnerable to cyberattack if they are not adequately protected.

Cybersecurity strategies for the logistics sector

At this point, the key question is what can we do to prevent or at least mitigate these cyberattacks? What any cybersecurity expert will tell us first of all is that the best thing to do is to prevent, that is, to protect our systems before the attack occurs, because once it has happened, the only thing we can do is to mitigate the damage. How do we do it?

• Staff training and awareness: The most frequent entry points for malware and other types of cyber-attacks are human error. Therefore, training our staff on cyber threats and how to recognize signs of potential attacks, such as phishing emails or unknown USB devices, will reduce exposure to these threats.
• Security updates and patches:  Another of the most frequent entry points are vulnerable systems. It is essential to keep all systems and software used in logistics up-to-date, including inventory management systems, vehicle tracking systems and any other related software.
• Powerful firewalls and antivirus: Install reliable firewalls and antivirus software on all devices connected to the network, such as computers, servers and mobile devices.
• Secure network access:  Implement security measures, such as two-factor authentication and VPNs (virtual private networks), to ensure that only authorized persons can access the company network. This is especially relevant when some of our staff work remotely or travel for work, and need to connect to our systems from different locations.
• Network monitoring: Use network monitoring tools to detect suspicious or unusual activity, which can help identify potential threats before they cause damage.
• Regular backups: Backing up all critical data on a regular basis and storing it in secure, offline locations is critical to protect against ransomware attacks or other types of data loss, one of the most common problems when a cyberattack occurs.
• Access and privilege management: Limit employee access privileges so that they only have access to the information and systems necessary to perform their job functions.
• Security audits: Conduct periodic security audits to identify potential vulnerabilities in the IT infrastructure and take corrective action before they are exploited by attackers.
• Incident Response Plan: Develop and practice an incident response plan to be prepared in case a cyber-attack occurs, which will help minimize the impact and speed recovery. Above all, it is important to establish rapid and transparent communication with affected parties in the event of an incident.
• Collaboration with partners and suppliers: Make sure that your partners and suppliers also comply with high cybersecurity standards, as they may represent a gateway for attackers.

In an increasingly digitized and interconnected world, cybersecurity has become an essential factor in today’s logistics. But to protect the supply chain against cyber threats, we need a combination of technology, training of our staff and collaboration between supply chain stakeholders with trusted partners.

La entrada New Supply Chain Challenges: Cybersecurity in Logistics se publicó primero en APPIAGROUP.IO.

Fortunately, today there are technological solutions that facilitate inventory management and logistics management in general in ways that were unthinkable just a few decades ago. However, these tools provide a very wide range of possibilities, and the key is to adapt them to each company and sector, since different types of inventory have their own specific characteristics and applications.

In previous articles we have already discussed the different types of inventory, so in this article we will explore three practical examples of the main inventory types and how they would be applied in three different fictitious companies.

1. Inventory of raw materials at Hilos Brillantes textile company

Hilos Brillantes is a textile company that specializes in the manufacture of high quality fabrics for luxury fashion. The company’s main raw material is silk yarns imported from international suppliers.

To ensure uninterrupted production and keep warehousing costs low, the company maintains a strategic inventory of silk yarns. They use a just-in-time or JIT inventory management system in which they place orders with their suppliers based on projected demand and delivery schedules. In addition, they establish strong relationships with trusted suppliers to minimize the risk of raw material shortages.

What are the main fields that your inventory management system would have?

• Product ID: A unique identifier for each type of silk thread.
• Description: Specific details about the product, such as thickness, color, and material type – this information would be recorded in separate subfields.
• Quantity in stock: The current quantity of each type of yarn available in inventory.
• Supplier: The name or identification of the supplier of each type of silk thread.
• Last Replenishment Date: The date on which the last inventory replenishment was made for each type of yarn.
• Unit Price: The unit cost of each type of silk thread.

What are the advantages of this system?

• Reduced warehousing costs by keeping inventory levels low.
• Greater flexibility to adapt to changes in market demand.
• Minimized risk of inventory obsolescence.

2. In-process inventory of the automotive company “TechWheels”

TechWheels is a manufacturer of automotive components specializing in high-end brake systems.

Since the company operates in a mass production environment with highly standardized processes, they implement an efficient in-process inventory system. They maintain a continuous flow of materials on the production line to avoid interruptions and delays. They use just-in-time and lean manufacturing techniques to minimize excess inventory and maximize operational efficiency.

What are the main fields that your inventory management system would have?

• Component ID: A unique identifier for each type of automotive component.
• Description: Specific details about the component, such as model, type and features, in separate subfields.
• In-Process Quantity: The quantity of each component that is currently in the manufacturing process.
• Production Stage: The current stage in the production line that each component is in.
• Estimated completion date: The expected completion date for the manufacture of each component.
• Quality Requirements: Quality specifications that components must meet during production.

What are the advantages of this system?

• Reduced costs related to warehousing and in-process inventory obsolescence.
• Improved operational efficiency by minimizing lead times and production bottlenecks.
• Increased responsiveness to changes in market demand.

3. Finished product inventory of the technology company InnovaTech

InnovaTech is a fictitious company that manufactures state-of-the-art electronic devices, such as smartphones and tablets.

Given the highly innovative and volatile nature of the technology market, InnovaTech adopts a finished product inventory strategy that balances product availability with minimizing associated costs. They maintain a minimal finished goods inventory in stock and use advanced demand forecasting and data analytics systems to anticipate market needs and adjust production accordingly.

What are the main fields that your inventory management system would have?

• Product ID: A unique identifier for each electronic product.
• Description: Specific details about the product, such as model, storage capacity and features, in separate subfields.
• Quantity in stock: The current quantity of each electronic product available in inventory.
• Production Date: The date each electronic product was produced.
• Product Status: Indication of whether the product is available for sale or is reserved for shipment.
• Selling Price: The suggested retail price for each electronic product.

What are the advantages of this system?

• Reduced warehousing costs by minimizing finished goods inventory.
• Maximizing product availability by anticipating and meeting market demand.
• Flexibility to adapt quickly to changes in consumer preferences and market conditions.

As we can see, some of the fields are transversal to different companies and types of activity, while others are more specific. It is essential that each company carefully defines the information it needs for efficient inventory control and management. This will help them improve operational efficiency, reduce costs and ensure customer satisfaction.

La entrada Inventory in logistics: 3 practical examples se publicó primero en APPIAGROUP.IO.

Autonomous vehicles have come a long way since their initial conception. With advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, these vehicles are able to navigate the streets safely and efficiently, without the need for direct human intervention. Companies such as Tesla, Waymo or Uber are developing and testing autonomous vehicles in controlled, real-world environments.

Drones, also known as Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), are positioning themselves as an innovative way to make home deliveries. Companies such as Amazon Prime Air and UPS Flight Forward have been experimenting with delivery drones, overcoming technical and regulatory challenges in the process.

Autonomous home delivery and regulation

Until recently, developments in this field have been held back by regulation. But on January 1, 2021, a new European regulation came into force that allows drone and autonomous aircraft operators to provide a wider range of services, and creates the conditions for drones and unmanned aircraft to operate safely.

In January 2024, it was reported that Madrid is on track to implement groundbreaking regulations for drone parcel delivery, scheduled for 2025. Regarding autonomous vehicles, although Spain already includes them in the Traffic Law, a specific regulation is pending.

In any case, today autonomous delivery technologies are a reality, and promise to revolutionize the way we receive our products, offering unprecedented efficiency, speed and convenience. What advantages do they offer us?

Advantages of the use of drones and other autonomous vehicles in logistics

The use of this type of technology for package delivery -what is known as the “last mile”- has some significant advantages, which justify advances in both technological development and the creation of a regulatory and legal environment that allows their use.

• Faster deliveries: Drones offer fast and efficient delivery, especially in densely populated urban areas where ground traffic can be an obstacle. In addition, they can access remote or hard-to-reach locations, making them ideal for delivery in rural areas or emergencies. This is especially useful for the delivery of high-priority or urgent products, or simply to improve delivery times in e-commerce.

• Cost reduction: Even if you initially have to invest in a fleet of drones or autonomous vehicles, compared to traditional delivery methods this system can offer a significant reduction in operating costs. For example, they require less labor and fuel.
• A more sustainable system: Drones are inherently more energy efficient compared to ground vehicles, especially over short distances. In addition, by reducing some of the road delivery traffic, drones decongest the road and CO2 emissions. All this contributes to the reduction of the carbon footprint and the development of more sustainable practices in logistics.
• Improved customer experience. The ultimate goal of logistics: Customers can receive their products faster and more conveniently, leading to long-term loyalty and satisfaction.

However, like any other technology, it is not free of barriers and risks. To begin with, as we indicated at the beginning, the regulations surrounding this distribution system still need to advance to facilitate a more widespread implementation. In addition, this lack of regulation coupled with the fact that it is a relatively new technology raises concerns about the safety of drones and other unmanned vehicles, and liability in the event of a collision or accident.

Another factor that may limit the adoption of this type of technology is limitations in payload capacity and the distance they can travel, which reduce their usefulness for bulky deliveries or long-distance operations. Weather conditions can also limit the drones’ ability to operate.

On the other hand, there is still a certain reticence at a social level that slows down the widespread adoption of drone delivery programs, as there are concerns about privacy and intrusion related to the use of drones for home delivery, or the ability to react to unforeseen situations or incidents.

But, as with many other technologies, as progress is made in developing and communicating the benefits of this system, and as it is properly regulated, it will open a new window of possibilities for the logistics sector.

Thus, autonomous home delivery, powered by autonomous vehicles and drones promises to radically transform logistics as we know it. However, for this vision to become a reality, it is crucial to address outstanding regulatory and technological challenges.

La entrada Autonomous vehicles and drones: The future of home delivery in logistics? se publicó primero en APPIAGROUP.IO.

La entrada Poka Yoke: What it is and examples [Complete Guide]. se publicó primero en APPIAGROUP.IO.

APPIA GROUP by VGG presents the new version of APPIA.edia on April 10, 2024 at its Barcelona offices. An innovative online platform designed specifically for the logistics operator’s customers, whose main function is to provide real-time access to detailed information on orders and stock.

With APPIA.edia, the logistics operator’s customers will enjoy an enhanced experience, where they will be able to manage their orders and stock in an efficient and transparent manner. In addition, the new version integrates a transport module that allows tracking the status of shipments in real time.

The new features of APPIA.edia include the visual redesign of the platform and the incorporation of new work areas that improve the flow of information between the logistics operator and its customer. The new launchpad, which offers a dynamic visual experience and adapts to the needs and operations of each company, stands out. A new dynamic report designer has also been implemented to facilitate the visualization of information within the warehouse.

The new “draft order” and “order quota” functionality has been added, allowing the logistics operator’s customer to validate orders prior to shipment, and to define the quantities that a user can request for an item. In addition, the new platform has been adapted to work on both computers and mobile devices.

It is presented as the perfect complement to the Warehouse Management System (WMS), and initial results show that the platform manages to avoid 99.9% of errors in order documentation and reduces up to 85% of telephone or e-mail queries made by the logistics operator’s customers.

For more information about APPIA.edia, please visit our website or contact us at comercial@appigroup.io

La entrada APPIA GROUP launches new online platform for logistics operator customers se publicó primero en APPIAGROUP.IO.

Procurement is a key process for companies involving the acquisition of goods and services. This practice is fundamental to ensure the proper functioning of the organization, and ranges from negotiation with suppliers to stock control.

What is procurement? Definition

Procurement refers to the set of activities and processes involved in the acquisition, storage and management of the resources necessary for the operation of a company or organization. This term covers the entire life cycle of products or services, from the planning and purchase of raw materials to the distribution and storage of final products.

In business, procurement involves the efficient management of resources and the supply chain to ensure that a company can meet its operational and production needs adequately and cost-effectively. This includes negotiating with suppliers, inventory management, logistics and process monitoring to ensure a continuous flow of goods or services.

Benefits of efficient supply management

Correct supply management allows companies to:

• Reduce operating costs.
• Improve the quality of products and services.
• Optimize the supply chain.
• Increase customer satisfaction levels.

The procurement cycle with a WMS

Warehouse Management System (WMS) procurement refers to the use of a technological platform designed to manage and optimize operations related to the storage and distribution of products in a company. A WMS is a key tool in the procurement process, as it automates and facilitates various activities, improving the efficiency and accuracy of logistics operations.

How is procurement integrated with a WMS?

1. Inventory recording

The WMS allows you to maintain a real-time record of inventory levels. This facilitates the identification of procurement needs by displaying up-to-date information on product inventories.

2. Procurement Order Generation

Based on inventory levels and established policies, the WMS can automatically generate procurement orders. These orders specify the products to be purchased, the quantities required and other relevant details.

3. Interaction with suppliers

Some WMSs are integrated with supplier management systems, allowing direct communication and electronic transmission of purchase orders. This integration streamlines the negotiation process and reduces the possibility of data entry errors.

4. Receiving and scanning of products

When products arrive at the warehouse, the WMS can be used to scan and record the receipt of goods. This automatically updates inventory levels and provides real-time information on product availability.

5. Efficient warehousing

The WMS can assist in assigning optimal storage locations for each product, which facilitates inventory management and improves efficiency by reducing search times.

6. Order tracking

WMS enables accurate real-time order tracking, including product location in the warehouse, order status, and estimated delivery dates.

7. Returns management

In the event of returns, the WMS can efficiently record and manage the return of products to the warehouse, automatically updating inventory levels and product availability.

8. Analysis and reporting

WMS provides analytical tools to evaluate the performance of the warehouse and procurement process. This includes identifying areas for improvement, optimizing routes and managing inventories more effectively.

Quality control in procurement: ensuring customer satisfaction

Quality control in the procurement process is essential to ensure excellence in the products and services offered to customers. Rigorous supervision of suppliers, verification of goods received and evaluation of customer satisfaction are key aspects to maintain high quality standards. To achieve this, it is advisable to implement the following practices in the procurement processes.  

• Establish product inspection protocols to ensure compliance with the quality standards established by the company.
• Conduct periodic audits of suppliers to verify compliance with quality requirements agreed in contracts.
• Collect and analyze customer feedback to identify possible areas of improvement in the procurement process and ensure customer satisfaction.

Procurement is vital to efficient supply chain management. From the identification of needs to final delivery, each phase of the procurement cycle plays a critical role. Optimizing this process is essential to ensure the timely availability of resources, reduce costs and improve the quality of the products or services offered.

La entrada Procurement: What is procurement, definition and procurement cycle [Complete Guide] se publicó primero en APPIAGROUP.IO.