December 2021 - A new warehouse system is an investment, and it’s important to envision—and understand—how the system will contribute both to a company’s operations today and its future growth. David Veldung from Fehr Warehouse Solutions discusses how to begin sourcing and optimizing the right warehousing solution through comprehensive concepting and graphic simulations.
Q: What is the first step in the process of taking an idea and shepherding it into the start of a solution?
A: Analyze the movement data. We record the current and expected movement data in an extensive analysis process. Weak spots in existing processes can already be identified in this initial step and the complete potential of optimized processes unlocked. A detailed report summarizes the results of the analysis in an easily understandable manner.
Q: How do you achievean optimal design?
A: We develop the potential to optimize existing processes based on the available analytical data together with the responsible person or people in your company. This helps to free up capacity and lower operating costs.
Q: Why is simulating processes important?
A: Once the processes have been outlined, the planning step is followed by an illustrative, dynamic simulation. In a subsequent detailed analysis, the individually planned process steps are checked and revised as necessary. The advantages of this simulation are that no interventions are required in existing processes in your warehouse and costly errors can be avoided.
Q: After the plan and design are in place, what are the next steps?
A: Implementation and commissioning. The new solution can be implemented once the optimum balance has been achieved for existing and future requirements. A rapid performance of the conversion work within a predefined time frame is just as much a matter of course as the safe implementation of the IT and warehouse management system.
Before the system goes into permanent operation, our on-site technicians train your employees in the new processes. A final performance test guarantees a handover.
You have to be able to rely on the functionality of your warehousing system at all times. An adequate life cycle management with regular maintenance and bespoke services helps secure the long-term profitability of your investment.
Our technical service and support is structured so that all processes relevant for an optimum life cycle management are covered by a team, from commissioning through to rack inspections. What this means for you is transparency; you always have the same contact person and short routes. And for your system, it means a prolonged lifetime and a stable value.
David Veldung is president, Fehr Warehouse Solutions, Charlotte, N.C., 704/666-8450.
