Designing Distribution Centers: Shifting to an Automated System

When a distribution center begins the transition from a manual operation to an automated operation, one of the greatest challenges faced by decision makers is calculating the required throughput rates for the equipment.

An automated process is not just a manual process with high-speed equipment added; automation often requires that a new approach be developed for the entire distribution operation.

Just as the automated processes are not likely to be the same as the manual processes, the factors that drive the throughput needs are not likely to be the same.

Even the most thorough understanding of the requirements under the current operating conditions will not easily translate into the requirements for the new automated system.

The throughput issues that must be addressed by decision makers vary based on the challenges faced by the distribution facility as well as the unique needs of the organization contemplating the change.

However, some common elements are likely to arise during any transition from a manual to an automated system:

• The effect of automated sortation on the criteria for workflow management.
• The storage and retrieval mechanisms required to support automated picking and inventory utilization strategies.