Welcome back to this series where we are looking at Warehouse Management System automation and its benefits for a user. In this second edition we will go specifically into Manhattan WMS integration and see how this power combo of automation and Manhattan WMS work for enterprises.
Automation in the context of a Warehouse Management System (WMS) like Manhattan WMS involves the integration of various technologies and processes to streamline and optimize warehouse operations. Manhattan WMS is a popular solution used for managing warehouse activities, including inventory management, order fulfilment, and shipping. Recognised as an industry leader since long, it promises a unified experience. Amongst many other benefits, Manhattan WMS provides multiple message communication options to integrate with systems like TCP, file, FTP etc. It does not restrict either the message type (demitted, fixed length, XML and JSON) or the number of messages. Manhattan WMS offers a very good framework to create and receive message. Information in these messages can customized to any extent without any lag.
Configuration/setup tasks to integrate MHE with Manhattan WMS:
- Defining the message format and the information going to contain in the message
- Distinct message Type for each message
- Configuring the message sequencing, if need be
- Choosing the protocol to be used
- Selecting single or multiline message format based on support from MHE system. Please note – Manhattan WMS is capable of generating both single and multiline messages
- Deciding the format of ACK/NACK message based on the need from MHE system
Tips for an MHE integration:
- Involve the WMS solution design team with Automation (MHE) design team early. It’ll help in choosing the right automation options and evaluating various integration options and challenges.
- Processing performance of both inbound and outbound messages is the key to automation success. It is always recommended to scope load and stress testing to access and tune the system to achieve required performance objective. The thumb rule is to tune system for expected peak volumes after 5 years or 150% of the current peak volume.
- Some messages require specific sequencing during processing, so the sequence must be defined accurately. This is so that the message does not fail or cause an incorrect update in the system.
- Timing of the containers with their divert points plays a crucial role. For example, the time between an induct point and a divert point, the timing between two divert points, etc.
- Robust integration testing is recommended to access message timing and the divert accuracy. Some of the issues we encounter due to message format are incompatibility, leading and trailing spaces, message lengths, etc.
- Configuration of multiple sortation systems involve significant effort and hence, needs to be factored in to avoid schedule slippages.
- Define Jackpot Lane / Error Lane workaround processes in advance.
- Identify resources and provide adequate training in advance to bridge skill gaps and ensure a smoother transition to automation.
To conclude this series, as technology continues to advance, the role of robotics and automation in warehousing is likely to grow, offering even more possibilities for increased efficiency and productivity. Manhattan WMS Integration isn’t just a technological upgrade; it’s a progressive leap that can improve your warehouse operations. This shift can introduce your business to heightened efficiency, flexibility, and responsiveness.
As we’ve explored throughout this series, the benefits of Manhattan WMS integration are undeniable but perhaps, most importantly, it results in an enhanced customer experience, a pivotal factor in today’s highly competitive market. In the end, the decision to embrace automation isn’t just about staying current; it’s about future-proofing your warehouse operations.
So, as you contemplate the role of automation in your warehouse, remember that it represents far more than just a technological upgrade. It’s a pivotal step toward a more efficient, flexible, and responsive supply chain ecosystem that holds the potential to reshape your business for the better. We recommend you embrace the Manhattan WMS change, and you’ll be well on your way to achieving a competitive edge in today’s fast-paced world of warehousing.
How can Acuver Help?
The highly skilled and experienced team from Acuver’s WMS can help you save money and time by navigating you through the vast array of cutting-edge technologies to find the offering best suited for your business. Our technology experts help in integration with any automation system with Manhattan WMS. Also, can help in developing small customization around MHE integration with WMS.
Author: Gyana Ranjan Muduli
