4 Signs It's Time to Modernize Your Warehouse
You’ve seen it coming for months, maybe even years. You don’t want to admit it. You don’t want to do the research, make room in the budget, or break operational momentum. We don’t blame you. Upgrading your warehouse is a daunting task. Besides, if it isn't broken, why fix it?
Well, just because something isn’t broken, doesn’t mean it’s working to the best of its ability. So, how do you know it’s time to finally bring your warehouse up to speed?
It’s Been a While…
If you haven’t upgraded your system in decades, chances are, you’re running on borrowed time. Take a look at your equipment; if your team is still using legacy handheld devices, and it’s been at least 5-7 years, it’s a good indicator that it’s time to upgrade to wearables –– now considered an industry standard. Technology moves quickly, and you want to make sure you’re staying competitive.
It’s Not Just The Hardware...
If your giant scanner guns are still running software on Windows CE, it’s time to rethink your options. Windows CE is now “end of life”, and Microsoft has announced they’ll no longer be supporting the operating system beyond 2021. When your hardware is outdated, it’s likely your software is too.
You have to consider storage as well. If your data is currently tethered to a legacy telnet server, it’s time to move to a cloud-based or modernized warehouse management system that can be accessed on any mobile device or browser. That said, it’s still possible to stay on your current legacy telnet server, but upgrade your hardware, and software interfaces around it, and still see a major improvement.
No matter which path you choose, modernizing to platforms with Android operating systems is faster, safer, and more convenient at every point of use. Where does your warehouse sit amongst competitors who have already made the shift?
It’s Impacting Your Efficiency...
Excel spreadsheets get the job done when it comes to analyzing performance metrics, but it’s not necessarily the most efficient method. There’s a better, easier, and faster way that doesn’t involve spending an hour trying to find the error in a formula. It can be daunting to make this shift to your operations, but the rewards are BIG. Think reduced admin labor along with increased pick efficiency on the floor.
With an updated system, you get access to more nimble, real-time tools that supply data to more easily identify stagnation, pain points, and areas for improvement from picking speed to restocking and shipping. For instance, with wearable tech, you can actually track how many steps a warehouse employee is taking per shift to find opportunities for improvement.
You Own The Equipment…
Owning scanning equipment has long been the norm but, increasingly, warehouses are moving towards a model beyond CapEx. Technology is evolving at a pace that surpasses investments. Your scanners start depreciating the day your team puts them to work, so why not move your hardware and software into the 21st century with a monthly subscription? You’ll end up spending less budget over time, while keeping your team flexible and ready to shift for the latest update as soon as it’s available.
If any of the above hit a little too close to home, don’t stress. It’s not as challenging as you think to update your warehouse supply chain processes and tech, especially if you have a support team to walk you through the process and beyond. You’re ready to take your warehouse to the next level and stay competitive. So, what’s next?
Start with us. WorkHero combines Rufus industrial wearables and cloud enterprise software with an affordable and flexible subscription model to help your operations achieve superhuman results. Talk to one of our reps today to request a virtual demo.
