Why is it worth to integrate WMS and ERP systems?

Companies whose business includes, among other things, running production and warehouse, support their operations with various systems. The most popular solution is a warehouse management tool – a WMS system. However, if you’re thinking of streamlining the work of your team and running efficient operations starting from generating and downloading documents, through transferring data between systems to updating the number of products in stock, a good solution is to integrate a warehouse system with an ERP program.

In the article, we answer the questions:

• Technological support of warehouse processes
• Why implement an ERP system in manufacturing and logistics companies?
• Integration of WMS systems with ERP – why is it worth it?
• Is it worth implementing a WMS in a company using ERP?

Technological support of warehouse processes

Logistics operations are carried out by companies, from a variety of industries. Supporting these processes can prove crucial in terms of efficiency and cost optimization. Often entrepreneurs choose to implement IT systems to streamline logistics.

To optimize warehouse processes, it is worth implementing a WMS system, but also ERP software, which is an effective tool for generating and circulating invoices and other documentation related to the acquisition and sale of products. The main tasks in warehouse operations that we aim to optimize by implementing an IT solution are:

• fast processing of orders,
• efficient receipt of goods,
• completion of orders and their release,
• replenishment of inventory,
• effective execution of inventory,
• ability to view the status of a given batch of products.

To optimize the above-mentioned processes in the warehouse, usually entrepreneurs choose to implement a WMS. This is, of course, the right solution, but its operation can be improved with the support of an ERP system and its integration.

The situation is analogous when using only an ERP program in a company. It can support the logistics process, which will be even more effective thanks to integration with the WMS.

Why implement an ERP system in manufacturing and logistics companies?

ERP systems improve warehouse management primarily in terms of accounting or recording goods. They allow comprehensive management of company operations. ERP software allows for managing the company’s resources while creating a good environment for performing key tasks. They support processes related to handling finances, accounting and fixed asset handling.

Another important task of an ERP system is to support production, warehouse and logistics. Among other things, it allows scheduling, controlling the level of resources, monitoring quality and, above all, generating relevant documents, such as receiving.

Integration of WMS systems with ERP – why is it worth it?

WMS and ERP integration can even determine the efficiency of your company’s logistics operations. Aiming for the most effective results, it is crucial to remember that the integration of IT systems is properly thought out and configured.

In order for the permanent structure of the warehouse service to run properly you need to ensure the connectivity of ERP-type systems with the WMS. The two structures acting separately will not be as effective. When planning the integration, you need to determine the relationship between the systems that will meet our business needs. The transfer of information between the programming should go both ways.

An ERP system is typically used to maintain databases, register new products, add contractors and create and send orders to the warehouse, and generate invoices. This information must, through integration, be sent to the WMS, which uses the aforementioned information in its processes. The integration will then allow the automation of tasks, full control and effective planning and execution of activities at various stages of work. There is also information that is passed the other way, from the WMS software to the ERP. These include information about the receipt of goods or the shipment of goods. Correct cooperation of WMS and ERP systems allows for full support of supply chain processes.

In practice, the cooperation of the two systems can look as follows. In the ERP system, we create a sales order and based on it, we send an instruction to the WMS system to complete a certain shipment, as well as to prepare it for delivery and to execute the shipment and confirm the delivery. As a result of the actions taken in the WMS, information related to the creation of an invoice and a change in inventory is transferred to the ERP system.

The most important advantages of WMS and ERP integration:

• efficient document circulation
• efficient data exchange
• automation of processes
• high efficiency of operations
• cost optimization
• minimization of the risk of downtime and errors
• easy control of the supply chain
• effective information management

Is it worth implementing a WMS in a company using ERP?

In some companies for which the logistics process is important, ERP software may not be sufficient. However, you don’t have to give up such a solution and invest in a completely new tool. Having an ERP system, for example, for financial handling, it is worth considering the implementation of an integral WMS, which will have only those functions that the previously selected solution does not offer.

Our specialists have created a WMS system integrable with ERP systems, which complements the functionality of this tool in handling logistics and is fully integrated with it. This tool is a response to the needs of our customers. Our new warehouse management solution is integrated with ERP through API technology. It can also be synchronized with other tools, such as those supporting e-commerce. It consists of a desktop part and a mobile part, which will allow you to undertake tasks already in the warehouse.

It is a flexible and convenient solution that allows full personalization. The range of functionality and visible options can configure according to the needs of employees.