AV mounting solutions manufacturer streamlines picking process
By using a task management solution, the manufacturer also automated its inventory counts.
A leading manufacturer of AV mounting solutions currently produces and distributes products for professional and consumer markets. However, after implementing a new enterprise resource planning (ERP) system, it still sought methods to automate and streamline its processes within finished goods and shipping.
At the time, the manufacturer was using a manual process to fulfill 500 to 700 orders daily. Inventory picking was inefficient, as workers passed through the warehouse multiple times. In addition, packing lists had no validation, leading to errors in shipments, along with delays in invoicing. And, the inventory data updates (within the ERP) were manual processes, requiring significant time spent by managers.
The manufacturer required a solution to allow it to streamline order processing and shipping, while integrating with its ERP system to automate order completion and invoicing. But it also knew that, by simply automating its ERP process, it could not achieve the level of efficiency it required. The company discovered a software solution that could achieve two primary goals: automate and streamline inventory and picking processes, and seamlessly integrate to the ERP system. Chosen for its automated task management solution, the new software enabled the manufacturer to consolidate workflows and interleave tasks to increase productivity in its warehouse.
By using the task management solution—along with containerization, label printing and integrated data collection modules—the company improved inventory count efficiency. It also automatically generates pick lists and accelerates invoicing, while also eliminating manual data entry. In addition, real‐time visibility was gained into inventory, including serial numbers and lots. And, parts and materials movement was streamlined using scanning hardware.
The manufacturer’s employees adapted to the change in process, so they now have more flexibility to work away from their desks, as they focus on more productive tasks. Staff retention increased, and temporary workers are easily on‐boarded using the software.
Additionally, the manufacturer now benefits from automated e-mail alerts of inventory errors and statuses, as well as added visibility into when tasks are completed—and by whom. Since the initial project implementation, the manufacturer has added more solution modules, which have addressed other automation needs throughout their processes.
Radley Corporation
(616) 541-6010
