How to Integrate Your Warehouse Infosystem with Other Warehouse Equipment

Back in the early 2000s, warehouse digitalization was just beginning. People were walking and moving around the warehouse trying their best to be efficient and organized. However, everything changed when the eCommerce juggernaut Amazon and Jeff Bezos opened our eyes to see what the future of retail and logistics infrastructure would look like. The warehouse was no longer considered a purely strategic facility; it actually became a competitive advantage with all of the necessary equipment and implementation of a modern Warehouse Management System. 

Today, we’ll discuss integrating equipment into a warehouse infosystem with agnostic WMS and hardware, APIs, and barcode scanning as a continuation of our series on cutting-edge, digitized warehouses. We’ve also discussed previous topics on WMS automation, and operational efficiency and highlighted the challenge of whether robots can replace humans or not.

Agnostic WMS and Hardware

The first key component of a successful WMS and hardware integration is always knowing your requirements—and regularly reviewing these. Customers should consider partners who handle both the software and hardware and pay particular attention to the way that they communicate, as close collaboration is crucial.

 Another factor that will impact your success is how you work with your partner. At First Line Software, we recommend working directly with your partner, rather than using an intermediary. Having direct communication between the customer and their software/hardware implementer will minimize problems before they occur and ensure the successful launch of your WMS integration.

First Line Software carries out viastore WMS solutions and has the ability to seamlessly integrate with diverse hardware and software platforms. We offer a range of functionalities such as labor management, wave planning, and real-time inventory visibility, inventory tracking, order fulfillment, and barcode scanning. 

As an experienced WMS software development company, we have developed cutting-edge technology for our customers, offering a highly scalable, cloud-based architecture that elevates warehouse control and efficiency to unprecedented levels. Our innovative design is a multi-agent approach that expertly coordinates all automation devices and robotic systems within the warehouse.

This agile and adaptable approach can be deployed for customers without causing significant software disruptions, resulting in a seamless, “go-live” in a matter of weeks. This quick speed to market sets it apart and empowers businesses with the freedom to choose automation and robotic devices that best suit their unique needs.

Application Programming Interface

An API, or Application Programming Interface, is a powerful tool that allows programmers to communicate with an application without needing access to its underlying databases and source code. The key advantage of a powerful API is that programmers can easily integrate different pieces of software into one ecosystem, as well as implement interaction between hardware and software. Without a good API, many technological kludges are needed, including modification of database entries, files, and configuration keys which are not supposed to be modified outside the boundaries of a particular software program. It provides a standardized set of protocols and methods for connecting an application and extracting or sharing data as needed. By enabling different software systems and applications to work together seamlessly, APIs help create a more functional and efficient business ecosystem. This can lead to improved productivity, streamlined workflows, and better decision-making based on real-time data insights.

With an API, all of the critical data required for warehouse operations, such as product info, sales orders, and purchase orders, can be effortlessly pushed to external applications. This grants you the flexibility to integrate your systems in a way that best suits your needs. You can gain access to the system and user-defined reports through the API and proper authentication and selectively choose the data you want along with the format you prefer to receive it in. Furthermore, you can regularly update your API with new WMS releases to ensure continuous access to the data you need, making it easier to optimize your warehouse management.

Middleware Solutions

For those who are looking for a  more cost-conscious solution, you may consider using middleware to streamline and optimize your warehouse operations and data flow. Acting as a mediator between different systems and applications used in your warehouse, middleware software seamlessly connects your enterprise resource planning (ERP) system, transportation management system (TMS), and other third-party applications, allowing for smooth communication and data exchange. The better the API, the easier it is to create middleware to connect two different software/hardware systems together, and the more reliably this middleware will work.

Middleware software enables warehouse managers to make informed decisions, improve accuracy, and reduce errors by automating the flow of data between systems. Middleware can capture some data automatically via scanners on terminals, but its true potential lies in its integration with WMS which has been designed to take advantage of real-time input, either with remote control of robotic forklifts or other workflows.  

While middleware may seem like an easier and more affordable option, it’s important to consider the limitations of an ERP-based approach and the benefits of a WMS system. A WMS provides a more comprehensive and efficient solution, allowing for real-time data exchange, automated workflows, and advanced inventory management capabilities. No matter which route you decide to go, a fully integrated WMS can significantly improve your warehouse operations.

Choose a WMS—Once and for All

Choosing the right WMS system can significantly reduce costs, optimize efficiency, and maximize ROI for your business. While it isn’t the easiest decision to make, your chosen WMS will impact your ability to drive improvement in your warehouse—and no one wants to be implementing yet another WMS in a few months if you make the wrong decision.

To make an informed decision, it is advisable to conduct a thorough research by doing more than just visiting WMS websites, reading reviews, and social media. You can go one step further by visiting updated warehouses and speaking to people who have undergone similar implementations. By getting first-hand recommendations, you’ll be able to narrow down your options to a few potential solutions.

Once you have your shortlist, take your search to the next level by contacting each WMS provider and requesting a demonstration that includes a comprehensive assessment of all your requirements. This will enable you to evaluate each system’s functionality and determine if it aligns with your business needs.

With this approach, you can confidently choose the best WMS for your warehouse and start optimizing your operations. It’s worth noting that reputable and successful WMS developers prioritize their customers’ needs and budgets and are willing to work with you to determine the best solution before requesting a purchase commitment. This collaborative approach ensures that the WMS system selected is tailored to your specific business needs, maximizes functionality, and delivers significant value.

Barcode Scanning

While many companies still use a basic WMS, modern warehouses typically leverage additional technology, such as mobile barcode scanning devices to enable real-time, fast-working environments. This allows for quick input and verification of the identity of barcoded items, and their locations.

Barcoding can be advantageous for a variety of reasons, including legal compliance, specific customer requirements, dealing with extensive product ranges, or the need for easy identification of small items. A WMS that takes advantage of barcoding can offer increased accuracy and order integrity. By leveraging the benefits of barcode scanning, a WMS can improve efficiency and streamline operations in a warehouse environment.

Speed and Scale WMS

As a manufacturer or distributor expands its operations and warehouse network, the importance of efficiency and cutting-edge distribution operations only grows. Especially as consumer demands are evolving almost daily. To meet these challenges, the “equipment” mentioned above must be capable of responding quickly and accurately to any changes in the environment. If your WMS is holding back your competitive advantage, we’re here to help you! Reach out to First Line Software to discuss efficiency in your warehouse.