Warehouse Management System and Fulfilment Center Layout: A Case Study

Key Functions of a Warehouse Management System for a 3PL Service Provider's Warehouse

Question 1WMS has become more and more attractive for many warehouses that are operating with manual, paper-based systems. WMS can help to improve warehouse operational efficiency, enhance productivity, and increase asset utilisation.

(a)You are tasked by the management of a Singapore-based 3PL service provider to look for a warehouse management system (WMS). This 3PL’s conventional warehouse currently stores and handles a wide range of products for its clients such as consumer electronics, household appliances, home and office furniture and furnishings. Compile a list of key functions that the WMS must have. Give reasons for choosing them.

(b)Shortlist three (3) WMS that can meet the needs of this particular warehouse. Review the features of each WMS you have shortlisted based on your criteria. Recommend the best WMS for this warehouse. Give reasons to support your recommendation.

(c)The 3PL company plans to expand its business to serve retail companies that sell a wide range of consumer goods through their online platforms. What other considerations should you take into account when shortlisting the WMS for this warehouse?

Question 2Select a company you or your teammates are familiar with or worked for.Assume that the company is going to build a new fulfilment centre with a floor size of 60m x 120m x 11m.

(a)Examine the warehouse layout by developing a schematic layout of this facility. You need to estimate the areas needed for receiving and dispatch, storage space, aisle width and other spaces. You need not come up with the architectural plans, just a concept layout will be sufficient indicating the main areas of the warehouse. State any assumptions used and give reasons to support your answer.

(b)Analyse the storage system and handling equipment for this warehouse. State any assumptions used and give reasons to support your answer

(c)Discuss the possibility for this company to use a fully automated warehouse. State any assumptions used. Give reasons to support your answer and any possible issues the company may encounter.