One of the hot topics from our client base last year was warehouse automation. This can range from the full design within a new warehouse “shell” to small scale changes to a well-established operation in a traditional facility, and everything in between. Whatever the size and scale of the project, there is a path that should be followed to ensure the optimum solution is defined.
Workflow Analysis - Before implementing automation, it is critical to analyse the existing workflow in the warehouse. This analysis will help identify areas where automation can be most beneficial and determine the specific tasks that can be automated.
Cost-Benefit Analysis - Automation can be a significant investment, so it is important to undertake a cost-benefit analysis. This analysis should consider the upfront costs of implementing automation, as well as the potential long-term savings in operational costs, increased productivity, and error reduction.
Integration with Existing Systems - Automation should integrate seamlessly with existing warehouse management systems (WMS) and other software solutions. It is important to ensure that the automation solution can communicate and share data with these systems to optimise accuracy and efficiency.
Scalability - It is important to consider the scalability of the automation solution. Can it cope with increased volumes and adapt to changing business needs? It is important to choose a solution that can expand with the business and accommodate future growth.
Safety - Automation can introduce new safety risks in the warehouse. It is important to assess and address these risks to ensure the safety of workers and equipment. Safety measures such as barriers, sensors, and emergency stop buttons should be implemented, as necessary.
Return on Investment (ROI) - It is important to evaluate the expected return on investment for the automation solution. This includes considering the payback period and the overall financial benefits that automation will bring to the warehouse operation.
Training - Implementing automation will require training for warehouse staff to operate and maintain the automated systems. It is important to consider the availability of training resources and ongoing support from the automation provider.
Flexibility - The automation solution should be flexible enough to handle a variety of products and packaging types. It should be able to adapt to different sizes, shapes, and weights of items to be handled in the warehouse. This is particularly important if the nature of the business, or the strategic direction of the business is likely to change.
As one of our core competencies, Davies & Robson undertake many warehouse design and layout studies on behalf of our clients, and automation is always an important topic of conversation. If you are a business that is considering any form of automation in your warehouse operation and wish to discuss how we can support you in the next stages of your project, then give us a call for an informal discussion.
