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/ By Logimax / Inventory Management • Supply Chain Management • Warehouse Management Software (WMS)/ • • / 0 Comments

Services to Expect from Your Warehouse Management Software Provider

All warehouses, distribution, and third-party logistics facilities want to make sure that the warehouse management software – often referred to as WMS software – they choose is a good fit for their business and how it integrates with their supply chain. The WMS software must have all the features your business needs. But there are other aspects of a warehouse solution “fit” that are equally essential: service and support.

A professional and experienced service provider will ensure the software has the warehouse processes your business needs. They also will make sure you have the right solutions for integration, implementation, and post-installation support. This includes continuing troubleshooting and supporting your growth initiatives for better operational efficiency. In this blog post, we’ll highlight some of the most important service and support features you should look for when reviewing warehouse management software providers.

The Best Warehouse Management Software Integration Begins with Extensive Pre-Planning

Having a solid, advanced game plan is key when you consider your next WMS software provider. Logimax’s professional services team will work with you to identify your company’s specific needs and provide proper WMS solutions for initial integration and beyond. As a premier inventory and warehouse management software provider, the Logimax service team has the expert knowledge necessary for fulfilling your inventory management objectives – from logistics planning to warehouse and distribution center strategies.

Each customer is assigned skilled staff members who can analyze warehouse flow patterns to recommend reorganizing options if needed. This may include moving goods to better locations within the warehouse or implementing more efficient organizational systems that can save time on warehouse loading and unloading.

Logimax is dedicated to client success. We have the industry knowledge, customer service experience, and technical know-how to make all of your inbound or outbound operations more efficient. This includes project planning, software installation, required integrations, system configurations, system testing, inventory tracking, and warehouse operations improvement assistance.

Working with Your Company to Improve Warehouse Management System Processes

two men reviewing inventory in a warehouseServices from your warehouse management software vendor should never end after installation. Instead, service and support should continue throughout the entire length of your relationship. Logimax will regularly evaluate your 3PL, warehouse, or distribution center with your core team to determine current and future business growth areas and possible WMS software adjustments that will keep your operations running efficiently and boost productivity.

“Just because WMS has been around for roughly four decades, doesn’t mean these systems can be put in place and left to fend for themselves as the business world around them changes and morphs at the speed of light,” notes an article from Logistics Management on optimizing your warehouse management software. “To be most effective in today’s fast-paced fulfillment environment, these specialized business applications should be regularly reviewed, updated, and optimized in a way that aligns with the business’s current needs.”

Logimax knows that your warehouse or distribution center may need help to grow alongside emerging trends and technologies all while you continue to manage inventory. That’s why our supply chain operations experts are always here for you, ready with the knowledge to help your company maintain its competitive edge.

Get Your Warehouse Management Software Customized to Fit Your Company’s Inventory Management Needs

In today’s world of shipping and inventory management, there are many considerations that need to be made when choosing warehouse management software, including the unique needs of your warehouse operations. Every third-party logistics provider and warehouse has its own way of accommodating these requirements.

cloud computing conceptTherefore, a new installation of WMS software may require integration and customization by adding modules, developing fields, and templating reports. By working with Logimax cloud-based WMS you can depend on a user-friendly interface and inventory accuracy while satisfying specific customer demands for each order and shipment.

One example includes picking orders on days certain items are to be shipped together. Logimax’s warehouse management software solution can provide the tools your distribution facility needs. Managing warehouse inventory for those ‘we have to do it this way’ customers might include a solution such as our kitting module to prep often-shipped-together items in advance to save on fulfillment time.

And as a top-tier partner with warehouse hardware manufacturers, our dedicated hardware representatives can offer competitive pricing along with a wealth of related supply chain hardware integration services:

  • Product configuration consulting and recommendations
  • Product delivery, testing, and set-up
  • Coordination of RF site surveys and installation
  • Hardware upgrade and trade-in programs
  • Mobile solutions for integrated barcode scanning and RFID
  • Hardware maintenance agreements
  • Product leasing programs for businesses
  • Media and supplies fulfillment (labels, RFID tags, ribbons, head cleaners, etc.)

Train Your Employees Before Warehouse Management Software Implementation and Thereafter

Any change management process should be developed before the WMS solution implementation and initial training take place in your warehouse. This includes addressing the order of operations across your company, employee competencies needed for workplace success with warehouse management software systems, hardware configuration issues like devices or networks, supply chain requirements, and shipping management.

Man scanning box barcode; woman looking at computer screenEven testing new warehouse management systems cannot make for a seamless integration if there isn’t a solid and dedicated team from your company – not just members of upper management. The implementation crew will need key employees from your company, your suppliers, and the WMS software provider, all of whom are committed to working together towards a successful inventory management transition.

Training should not end after implementation, however. The warehouse management system software provider you select should also have a continuous training plan to ensure operations run smoothly. Logimax always assigns a dedicated project coordinator during the transition and service periods. This ensures your company can take advantage of every aspect of the seamless integration plan and benefit from our first-class WMS solution support.

Comprehensive Warehouse Management Software Includes Training:

  1. Your trainer or system administrator
  2. Your Logimax implementation project team
  3. All Logimax solution users, including RF end-users

Choose a WMS Software Vendor That is Always by Your Side Through Thick and Thin

teammates reviewing inventory on a tabletYou never want to find your warehouse, 3PL, or distribution center at a standstill due to an issue with your warehouse management software. Your chosen warehouse management software provider should be there for any questions, issues, or upgrade assistance your company ever requires including:

  • Help Desk Support
  • Support Portal
  • E-Support Notices
  • Informational Blog Articles 
  • User Events
  • Regular Cloud-Based Software Updates
  • Developing New Features

Excellence in customer support is at the center of Logimax’s values. Customer satisfaction is very important to us. To fully support every customer’s warehouse software solution and ensure their immediate and ongoing satisfaction, we offer a complete range of services that help ensure we meet your timeline, budget, integration, and functional requirements.

Logimax offers great WMS software that can help you with virtually all of your supply chain and warehouse management needs. We offer professional services to make the integration process and ongoing usage much easier for businesses – resulting in better inventory accuracy and operational efficiency. For more information on how our cloud-based warehouse management systems’ extended support can improve your logistics supply chain now and for years to come, contact the Logimax expert team today.

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4 Reasons to Consider Moving to the Cloud

Cloud-based computing, or “the cloud,” is a new way to deliver on-demand services through a subscription model. For companies of any size, from startups and beyond, the cloud provides affordability, around-the-clock connectivity, scalability, greater security, and more.

Operating in the cloud means moving away from tangible software that is installed via on-site hardware versus software run on distant servers that are owned and operated by your hosting provider. The IBM i platform, for example, is the hosting server for Logimax. There are many reasons why moving to the cloud gives your company a long-term advantage. Here are the main four.

Safety and Security

A browser-based solution like the cloud guarantees your company protection. Because your resources live on a hosting platform located outside your company, your most valuable data is immune to both physical threats (flooding, outages, natural disasters) and viral threats. Downtime is reduced. Accessing your system remotely from anywhere in the U.S. is simple. You can enjoy the confidence of knowing your data lives a healthy life and is there for you whenever you need it.

IBM i Expertise

Your cloud host matters. When you move to the cloud you want to make sure you choose a hosting platform that is there for you, no matter your question or need. IBM i host providers are known worldwide for providing a range of experts backed by years of experience in the field. They speak your language. You won’t be trapped in a web of lost calls or misdirected transfers. You’ll find experts who are not reading from a book but have expertise grounded in experience. The reliability and professionalism of your hosting platform’s support is essential to achieving success.

Cost Savings

The cloud is designed to reduce costs. In fact, the IBM i platform is known to produce a savings of up to 70 percent compared to the on-premise server model. There is no need for hardware, data servers, or other forms of computing infrastructure. You eliminate IT support because it is replaced by the cloud hosting provider. Monthly or annual fees replace upfront application software licenses, application fees, plus all upgrades. The moment you sign up, the savings begin.

Flexible Terms

The cloud won’t lock you in. Instead, you pay only for the resources you need. This can also be adjusted as your company grows or your needs change. Simply put, through the cloud model, you use what you need, however you need it, and how long you need it. Termination can take place any time. All you need is a plan that is tailored to support your immediate needs and your vision for growth.

Is your warehouse ready for the cloud? Visit logimaxwms.com or call (855) 253-8855 to set up a demo or to learn more about our WMS and 3PL software.

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/ By Logimax / 3PL • Industry News and Trends • Logistics Software • Supply Chain Management • Warehouse Management Software (WMS)/ • • • • • / 0 Comments

Why Your WMS Software is Key to Unlocking Current Supply Chain Problems

You’ve read it in the headlines. It affects everyday life whether you are the consumer or a product supplier. Severe supply chain backlogs are crippling product sales everywhere and it’s not only costing companies significantly but straining customer relationships. Issues can include late shipments, persistent out-of-stocks, and disgruntled end-users, to name a few.

With no supply chain relief in the near future, you must have a strong grasp of your current warehouse management system (WMS) software and its capabilities, or lack thereof. Does your current WMS software live up to your expectations? If not, a re-evaluation may be in order.

To be the most efficient, and therefore most profitable, during and after this dreadful supply chain crisis, the right WMS software can help you succeed.

Top Benefits of Exceptional Warehouse Management (WMS) Software

  1. Better Inventory Visibility – If your current WMS software is constantly experiencing problems or not providing you real-time updates, it can lead to considerable operational problems. With a more powerful WMS software system from Logimax, you can view up-to-date inventory data to see what’s actually in stock and ready to go during all points of the distribution process. From receiving to stocking to storing, having a clear picture of exactly what products are on hand means you can maintain the appropriate amount of inventory, process orders, and ship on time without issue. A great WMS software also provides valuable forecast information to help you get a jump on reordering stock in enough time to avoid supply chain problems.
  2. Lower Operating Costs – If your current WMS software is not providing data in one or more areas, it can drastically affect your overall warehouse operations. A great deal of time can be wasted having employees searching the aisles to locate products because your software doesn’t allow for proper inventory tracking. The right software from Logimax can lower your operating costs by helping you plan your warehouse space and labor as efficiently as possible. A superior provider can aid you in determining the proper inventory location, shelving set-up, and pallet arrangement, plus the equipment needed for the best functionality.
  3. Optimal Security – It is critically important that your WMS software provides the highest security to thwart threats to your operations. Security breaches will cause even more problems on top of the current supply chain crisis. Are your warehouse operations truly protected through your current software? A superior system allows you the ability to create audit trails so transactions are tracked to specific employees, therefore reducing the risk of theft and improving accountability. Software with user-access controls means you decide which team member has access to specific levels of information across your organization.
  4. Just-in-Time (JIT) and Just-in-Case (JIC) Inventory – Just-in-time (JIT) inventory ensures you aren’t holding large amounts of inventory for long periods of time, while Just-in-Case (JIC) inventory imagines the worst-case scenario for your most critical items (think semiconductors or, two years ago, masks and hand sanitizers) so you don’t run out. It’s a balance that requires forecasting and continually adjusting that forecast as things change. Your WMS software should enable you to set and update reorder levels and to exchange that information in real-time with your suppliers and customers. Whether you distribute sourced products from overseas or are kitting for local manufacturers, if they can’t keep you stocked and you don’t have products to store and distribute, it will hurt your bottom line.
  5. Improved Billing Management – Billing tools or modules built right into WMS software or that can seamlessly integrate with third-party apps make the process of managing A/R and A/P a snap. By adding a multi-functional software package from Logimax you can manage WMS billing without the hassles and added resources that may be necessary with less powerful software.
  6. Enhanced Supplier and Customer Relationships – Good relationships are more important now than ever given today’s uncertain supply chain atmosphere. With advanced WMS software, you can shorten wait times at the dock doors by scheduling inbound deliveries and outbound shipments, all resulting in faster turnaround times for customers. Couple this with radio frequency tools to drastically improve order accuracy and fulfillment. The result? Your increased reputation for responsiveness will ensure your customers are more than satisfied with your performance.

See how Logimax software can put your company on the right track today.

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4 Ways Logistics and Supply Chain Companies Can Strengthen Their Hiring Practices

Jobs are growing in the supply chain and logistics sector that go beyond the shop floor or the loading dock. Because of the increase in automation and smart technology in warehouses, there is a growing labor shortage of white-collar jobs.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that logistics jobs will grow by 26% between 2010 and 2020. The need for experienced and trained white-collar professionals is significant. As a result, salaries are rising: According to the 2018 Salary Survey by Logistics Management, the average logistics industry salary is $114,250, up 8% since 2016. Sixty-four percent of survey participants reported that they had a salary hike over the past 12 months; the top three most common job titles are logistics manager or director, operations manager or director, and vice president/general manager.

One reason that salaries are on the rise is these roles require a higher set of skills. The majority of the magazine’s respondents (75%) said that the number of functions they’re performing has increased.

So how can companies recruit skilled workers to close the gap? Here are four ways to consider:

  • Target women. Logistics and shipping are male-dominated industries. Groups like Achieving Women’s Excellence in Supply Chain Operations, Management, and Education (AWESOME) advocate bringing women on by offering them benefits that would appeal to them — flextime, on-the-job training, and executive leadership programs so they can grow and advance their careers. These efforts are greatly needed — Research by AWESOME/Gartner reveals that only 20% of supply chain leadership were women, a figure that has actually been in decline in recent years.
  • Recruit veterans. People with previous experience in logistics for the military are naturals in this industry. The same for drivers and others involved in large-scale logistics operations. Finding them will mean tapping into local and national veterans’ organizations that can provide a clearinghouse for top talent.
  • Round-up Millennials and younger associates. People under 30 represent a candidate pool that is hungry for stable, high-paying employment, and they are at a point in their lives where they are trying out new opportunities. So, create a pipeline early. Start a scholarship program to recruit potential hires and target local colleges and universities to show them how the logistics and supply chain industry is a great place for leadership roles.
  • Re-evaluate benefits. Too often employers pitch potential hires with salary and salary alone. Focus more on benefits that younger candidates will find appealing. Besides investment and health plans, create programs for flex time, or lifestyle and wellness benefits such as discounts at local or onsite gyms. Employers have discovered that to keep workers from job-hopping they must create a workplace where workers feel appreciated — And not just by the numbers on their paycheck.

How have you changed your recruiting practices to target top talent? Have you had success creating a pipeline for younger workers? Let us know!

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New Report Shows Greater Adoption of NextGen Supply Chain Technologies

Hackers are the greatest threat to cybersecurity in the supply chain, followed by lack of awareness inside companies that threats even exist.

That is one of the findings in the just-released report by the Material Handling Institute (MHI) and Deloitte. Titled “Overcoming Barriers to NextGen Supply Chain Adoption,” the report examines the 11 emerging technologies, from robotics to artificial intelligence (AI) to wearable devices, that are expected to work together to establish a new information ecosystem that is always accessible by demand. The majority of the report’s survey respondents report that the NextGen supply chain will represent the predominant model within just 5 years.

Five innovations — robotics/automation, predictive analytics, the Internet of Things, AI, and driverless vehicles and drones — will have the greatest impact in how products will move through the supply chain in the future.

Driving the new supply chain are big dollars. Half of the survey respondents are from companies reporting annual sales topping $100 million, with 10% reporting annual sales of $10 billion or more. Half of all the respondents say that they are planning new technology investments in the supply chain totaling more than $1 million over the next two years. Twenty percent plan to spend more than $5 million; 10% plan to spend more than $10 million.

The potential slowdowns to the supply chain are related to people. Most companies say that hiring well-trained or qualified workers is a major challenge, as is addressing growing customer demands. As more customers become accustomed to improvements in transparency and increased delivery times such as same-day service, competition will be focused on new technologies that will strengthen speeds. Warehouse companies will transform into high-velocity operations that will be expected to push more product through a smaller pipeline, as well as become flexible enough to respond to increased customer expectations.

Another barrier to adoption is ROI. Some companies are finding it difficult to estimate the full cost benefits of these technologies, which is causing them to hesitate in their investment. The report estimates that the potential costs of inaction are loss of market share, problems with future compliance, increased risks, and loss of competitiveness.

Companies are recognizing the need for change. The report shows how adoption rates of new technologies are on the rise, and it forecasts that they will increase in coming years. For example, adoption of robotics and AI is currently at 34%, but it is predicted to more than double to 73% in just five years. Part of what’s driving this is cost. As automation becomes more commonplace, due to its accuracy and speed, it will also become less expensive and easier to implement. Survey respondents say that the most common use for automation is picking, packing, and sorting orders.

With innovations come threats. Besides hackers and lack of awareness, poor cybersecurity practices among suppliers represent a third challenge to keeping the supply chain safe. This will become more prevalent as customers will demand greater transparency for every level of the supply chain, which means that companies will need to share a greater capacity of information. This means that suppliers need to be better schooled in potential threats and adopt best practices avoid breakdowns or other cost-threatening disruptions.

Want to explore a warehouse management solution that fits your business? Visit e-logimax.com or call (855) 253-8855 to set up a demo or to learn more about our WMS and 3PL software.