Warehouse Execution Systems: The Technology Behind an AS/RS

By: Morgan Williams, Marketing Design Coordinator

WES; the power behind an automated warehouse  Automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS) ensure the ability to adapt to changing market conditions, now and in the future. According to MHI, this combination of equipment and controls handles the storage and retrieval of materials as needed with precision, accuracy and speed under a defined degree of automation. It has been proven time and again that AS/RS are reliable technologies capable of effectively handling raw materials, WIP inventories and finished goods.

Many companies are beginning to recognize the importance of software applications as they turn to automated warehousing systems to boost productivity. The technology behind this automated process guarantees a wholly efficient system without the time constraints of an average work shift, or the physical constraints of a large facility. Traditionally, an AS/RS is run by separate warehouse management system (WMS) and a warehouse control system (WCS) applications. However, without seamless integration, these two applications can create more challenges for the warehouse.

Enter warehouse execution systems (WES). WES emerged as a hybrid system combining the functionality of both a WMS and a WCS while eliminating the need for separate applications. As a joined solution, a WES has many distinct advantages over separately implemented WMS and WCS systems; some of those advantages include:

  • The ability to maximize the benefits of an automated system while also increasing inventory accuracy and reducing labor costs.
  • Maintaining both warehouse inventory and driving automation.
  • Scalable solutions and the ability to implement only the specific functionality needed to meet your unique business needs.
  • Use of a single systems creates consistency and typically requires a shorter learning curve for those operating the system.

Westfalia’s Savanna.NET® WES has the ability to communicate with automated material handling equipment more effectively than many other WES applications might. Savanna.NET® combines the management features of a WMS along with the automation control components of a WCS; offering real-time views of not only material handling equipment, but also labor status and other crucial KPIs.

“Savanna.NET® directs, controls and optimizes internal material flow and order picking as a system-wide software solution,” says Westfalia’s Dave Williams, director of software and solution delivery. “Operative control includes optimizing paths throughout the system – from when goods enter the warehouse to when they are shipped – keeping goods organized in the most efficient manner.” The sophistication of Savanna.NET® WES provides the ability to help an organization better utilize its automation and warehouse personnel, deliver better storage utilization, increase inventory accuracy, and improve product traceability all in a clear and concise format.

Savanna.NET® WES software enables companies of all sizes to address their specific warehousing needs. Savanna.NET® is a complete solution that meets your individual requirements. It is our goal to continually provide you with a competitive edge through the use of new technology and automated warehousing solutions.

 

Are you interested in learning more about how Westfalia’s Savanna.NET® WES integrates WMS and WCS functionality? Contact us today for a FREE demo.

Our Mission: To deliver unparalleled warehousing solutions by earning the trust of our customers, understanding their business needs and honoring the commitments we make.