Every business is trying to achieve higher productivity and better efficiency through smart solutions. Is the answer to add more staff? Possibly not, as employment is at an all-time high so filling an open position is more difficult and costlier than ever. Or do you need to overhaul your warehouse to keep up with the competition? What about the downtime and cost associated with a major upgrade? Ouch. It all adds up and it’s hard to know where to start. So, how can companies reach their productivity goals without blowing their budgets, or their minds?

Ask the Right Questions

First, let’s delve a little deeper into your operation by answering the following questions:

1. 1. What pick metrics are you measuring?
   2. How can order pickers pick faster and more accurately?
   3. Do you have the proper layout for your changing business model?
   4. Do you have the right equipment to adapt to your evolving business model?
   5. Do you have the optimal amount of equipment on hand?
   6. Are you utilizing the appropriate type and amount of automation?
   7. Can you collect the data needed to facilitate making your daily workload?

   One of the easiest and best ways to answer these questions is to contact an experienced systems integrator who will work with you to compile all the data, analyze it, and design a customized solution that works for you.

   Depending on your operation, one answer might be as simple as changing the types of equipment you have (i.e., fewer reach trucks and sit down forklifts and more rider jacks and order pickers). Another option might be moving to a warehouse management system (WMS) or, if you already have a WMS, upgrading to a more robust one. Not all situations require a complete overhaul – though some do – so it’s important to partner with someone with the expertise to positively impact your bottom line and the integrity to only recommend what you really need.

   Leading the Way

   Regardless of the situation, there is almost always a way to make a company healthier and more competitive through a careful assessment of where you are now versus where you want to be a year or five years from now. And we all want our businesses to succeed and stay ahead of the competition.

   Are you ready to see how much stronger your company and your balance sheet can be? Call an experienced material handling expert for an analysis of your operation and find out today.