In the dynamic, fast-paced world of logistics, efficiency is paramount. Among all the warehouse operations, order picking process assumes a lot of importance. It’s not an exaggeration to state that warehouse operations rely heavily on the accuracy and speed of order picking processes.
Any errors in this crucial phase can lead to delays, unhappy customers, and unnecessary costs. Fortunately, advancements in Supply Chain Management (SCM) technology, particularly mobile solutions, offer a promising avenue to streamline operations and minimize errors. In this blog, we’ll delve into the challenges faced in warehouse order picking, and how implementing a mobile SCM solution can significantly improve both speed and accuracy.

Overview:
Challenges in Warehouse Order Picking Errors
Order picking errors are a common challenge in warehouse management. In manual systems, human error is inevitable, leading to mispicks, incorrect quantities, and misplaced items. This not only impacts customer satisfaction but also strains relationships with suppliers and increases operational costs due to returns and reshipments. Traditional paper-based systems aggravate these issues, often leading to inefficiencies and data discrepancies.
How a Mobile SCM Solution mitigates these Challenges
A traditional ERP system like Oracle or SAP is the best bet to automate and streamline a variety of warehouse and inventory operations. However, a centralized ERP system may not completely serve the purpose of an organization as most of its warehouse might be located at remote locations where access to centralized ERP data may be unavailable. Moreover, lack of a proper barcode or QR code devices to effectively scan and record the inventory only worsens the order picking process.
Against this backdrop, a mobile SCM solution that seamlessly connects with a centralized ERP system to effectively scan, record and track the inventory is the need of the hour for warehouse personnel looking for an automated solution. A good mobile SCM solution offers several key benefits in addressing order picking errors while simultaneously boosting picking speed and accuracy:
1. Real-Time Data Access
A mobile WMS offers an organization’s warehouse staff with instant access to real-time inventory data, eliminating the need for manual data entry and reducing the likelihood of errors associated with outdated information.
2. Barcode Scanning
Barcode scanning functionalities enable workers to quickly and accurately identify items during the picking process. By scanning barcodes or QR codes, the risk of picking the wrong item or quantity is significantly reduced, leading to improved accuracy.
3. Voice Recognition
A good to have feature of a mobile SCM solution is voice recognition technology, allowing workers to receive picking instructions hands-free. This not only increases efficiency but also minimizes distractions, leading to fewer errors.
4. Route Optimization
Route optimization plays a vital role in optimizing the picking process. A mobile SCM solution that leverages advanced algorithms can optimize picking routes, ensuring that workers take the most efficient path through the warehouse. This reduces unnecessary travel time and increases overall picking speed.
5. Training and Onboarding
A mobile supply chain management (SCM) solution with integrated training modules enables rapid familiarization with warehouse processes for new employees. As a result, the organization can reduce the expenses associated with training its workforce on the mobile SCM solution. This accelerated learning process facilitates smooth integration of the new technology within the organization, minimizing the occurrence of errors.
From the above discussion, it is evident that a good mobile SCM solution can optimize the efficiency of your warehouse personnel in effectively performing picking operations, apart from other day to day inventory tasks. Propel Apps, a leading digital transformation company has developed a mobile SCM solution that simplifies and automates your supply chain for Oracle SCM Cloud, Oracle EBS, Oracle WMS, and SAP S/4 HANA. Armed with cutting-edge technologies including barcode scanning, GPS and IoT, this solution even works offline and is easily customizable to meet your unique SCM processes. To know more, schedule a call with us today.
