The Material Handling Blog

Warehouse Execution Systems: Orchestrating Operations and Enabling Future Automation

Kevin Niehoff

January 25, 2023

The term ‘Warehouse Management System’ (WMS) is synonymous with the management of operations within a distribution center. But there can be gaps within the WMS’s broad scope that require another layer of integration to truly allow the system to operate as designed, especially when it comes to automation. Warehouse Execution Systems (WES) have been created to operate under the WMS to help fulfill business needs not easily managed by the WMS. In fact, it is a crucial element to enabling more automation in warehouse operations.

Retrofits and Cutovers: What to Know Before Modernizing Your Automation System

Ahmed Arif

February 10, 2021

At Bastian Solutions, we see a lot of live operation projects every year – enhancements or modernizations of existing operations. These kinds of projects are considerably more difficult than projects that are performed in a greenfield (brand new building) or brownfield (existing building) site that aren’t operational today.

Understanding Host System Integration with Exacta Intralogistics Software

August 07, 2018

Integrating supply chain software may seem intimidating, but with the help of our experts and a good software package such as Exacta, connecting your host software system to your automated material handling system is easy.

Understanding Host System Integration with Exacta Intralogistics Software

Bastian Solutions

August 07, 2018

3 Keys to a Successful Warehouse Management System Implementation

William Saucer

February 09, 2018

Purchasing a new warehouse management system (WMS) can bring levels of uncertainty. You want to ensure it's installed correctly and smoothly and your employees are properly trained. To do so, here are 3 steps to a successful WMS implementation.

How to Select a Warehouse Management System

Marvin Logan

February 06, 2018

Searching for a new warehouse management system (WMS) can be a complicated matter. It is very important to have a plan for success before starting, and then work that plan to the best of your ability.

5 Ways to Optimize Your Warehouse Processes with Microsoft Access

Wade Brown

January 03, 2018

If your warehouse management system provides countless amounts of raw data, a database management program such as Microsoft Access can help you maximize all that valuable information.

A 3-Step Method to Warehouse Optimization

Wade Brown

September 27, 2017

While there are many different areas and processes you can focus on when attempting to optimize your warehouse, this three-step method can be applied to all areas of your warehouse in one form or another.

Automação e Software Supply Chain

Mauricio Ferreira

July 14, 2017

O software WMS (warehouse management system) é o mais velho conhecido sistema de suporte de operações em armazéns, faz o controle de inventário, processa o recebimento, ordens de armazenagem, ordens de separação e envio.

A Supply Chain Software Comparison: WMS vs. WCS vs. WES

Bastian Solutions

June 07, 2017

The evolution of supply chain management has introduced a new breed of supply chain software, but what are the differences between the "big three"? Let's examine the functionality of WMS, WCS, and WES. Read: A Supply Chain Software Comparison: WMS vs. WCS vs. WES

Now is the Time to Replace RF with Voice Picking Technology

Alex Haines

May 23, 2017

Warehouse picking technologies have developed immensely over the past 15 years. Offerings range from paper pick lists and light directed picking, all the way to goods-to-man technologies. Depending on throughput, budgets, and space requirements, each of these have their place in the warehouse logistics world.

Supply Chain Software Making a Big Impact for Small Business & Startups

Chris Bratten

April 20, 2017

Large companies have teams of statisticians, data scientists and engineers to solve complex logistical problems. Companies like Amazon invest millions of dollars for small improvements to their already lean and efficient operations. But what about companies just starting off in warehouse distribution? How can these companies plan for growth while maintaining small, budget friendly operations?

How to Increase Productivity Within Your Warehouse Fulfillment Center

Bill Bastian II

July 22, 2013

Automation is an effective way to increase productivity in the workplace, but it still requires a careful approach to meet your needs and fit your budget. Depending on the size and demands on your warehouse and employees, different levels of automation may provide the most reliable returns and better productivity...

The New Differentiator in Warehouse Software Isn't New

Damir Kantardzic

July 02, 2013

In the past, warehouse and distribution products fell into two camps--material handling equipment and warehouse software. However, companies soon found it advantageous to offer both, allowing them to implement end-to-end warehouse systems for their customers.

When Does Automating Case Storage Make Economic Sense?

Mike Clemens

March 21, 2013

Over the last few years, I have seen more client interest in automated case storage systems. While the cost justification for some of these installations was based upon very high labor costs; I think the technology costs have dropped to the point where it can have a wider application.

Why Cycle Counting Beats Physical Inventories

Chris Bratten

August 15, 2012

Accurately tracking inventory can be a costly affair for many distribution centers since it interrupts your daily operations and consumes man hours better spent on revenue-generating activities. If your DC has struggled with completing a physical inventory, cycle counting could be the solution you need... Read More >>

Automatic Print and Apply: Blessing or Pain?

Bastian Solutions

July 11, 2012

Are there machines out there that can automatically print a shipping label for a container and apply it without anyone touching it? Why yes, there are. As much as that might seem like a miracle machine, they can come with their fair share of headaches, but let’s start with the positives...

AI-Based Robotic Depalletizing vs. Robotic Layer Depalletizing

Planning for Warehouse Automation: Where to Begin?

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