Roberto Michel, a senior editor for Modern Materials Handling, recently wrote an article about the role software plays in fulfillment center and warehouse operations. He reached out to top industry experts, including our very own Howard Turner, for their thoughts. Howard talked about the capabilities warehouse execution system (WES) software can provide, and how it can enhance operations when properly applied.
Today, says Howard Turner, director of supply chain systems at consulting firm St. Onge, WES software, offered by multiple types of vendors including automation vendors, is key to orchestrating multiple automated systems.
“When implemented properly, WES does carry out this vital orchestration role where the software acts much like an orchestra conductor, getting multiple assets to work as one, so you can achieve the throughput and customer service you are after,” Turner says.
“When a company acquires some automation today, they are not just getting equipment. They are getting the software elements and all that comes with that in terms of orchestration and order release, and being able to look at throughput and picking efficiencies. You can’t overlook the importance of the software, which is essentially the brains of the operation,” says Turner.
Click here to read the article on the Modern Materials Handling site!
