Körber Supply Chain Software’s Darren O’Connor and Jamie Sterling speak to MHD about managing warehouse operations with cloud-based solutions.
The shift to cloud-based solutions represents a leap forward in the supply chain and logistics industry.
Operating cloud-based solutions offers businesses scalability, flexibility, and efficiency, while alleviating the burdens of technical administration and infrastructure management.
As more companies turn to cloud-based or Software as a Service (SaaS) for their logistics needs, it’s worth exploring how these innovations are shaping the industry.
The power of SaaS in logistics
Darren O’Connor, Director of Solution Delivery, Körber Supply Chain Software, explains that the SaaS offering eliminates previously required technical administration of the solution. The ability to adjust resources based on demand without substantial upfront investments in hardware is a game-changer for many businesses. This relief from technical upkeep allows companies to focus on their core competencies instead of the complexities of IT infrastructure.
“The scalability of SaaS is a significant benefit that you wouldn’t typically have if you managed everything on-premise.”
Integration and adaptability: key differentiators
One of the features of cloud solutions is their integration capabilities.
“None of our warehouse management solutions operate as islands,” says JamieSterling, Head of APAC Sales, Körber Supply Chain Software.
“They are all integrated into something, whether that’s a source of orders, an output, or integration with a transport provider.”
This seamless integration ensures that the systems can work harmoniously within the broader IT landscape, enhancing efficiency and coordination while being designed to be adaptable.
Körber always offers an adaptability capability, giving customers the ability to create new processes or adapt existing ones.
This way, businesses aren’t limited by the out-of-the-box functionalities of the software; they can customise and bolster features to meet their specific needs.
Empowering businesses through independence
Another aspect of cloud-based software is the empowerment it provides to businesses.
“We enable our customers to hold their own destiny, enrich their own solution, and manage their own changes,” says Jamie.
This autonomy allows businesses to innovate and adapt without being tied down by the original software provider’s roadmap.
Körber also offers training through its educational academy, ensuring that clients are equipped to make these changes independently. This approach not only enhances customer satisfaction but also reduces reliance on external support for routine adjustments.
The environmental and economic benefits
In addition to operational benefits, cloud-based solutions offer environmental advantages.
“The cloud-based model does lower your environmental footprint,” says Darren.
“Cooling large data centres is more efficient than cooling smaller, scattered facilities.”
This efficiency translates to lower energy consumption and reduced costs, which is particularly beneficial for businesses looking to improve their sustainability profile.
“With scale comes economics and reduction in costs, including those associated with air conditioning and electricity,” adds Darren.
These savings can be significant, especially for companies with large warehouseoperations.
Robust disaster recovery and enhanced ROI
A well-managed disaster recovery plan is crucial for any business, and cloud-basedsolutions offer a reliable option.
“For customers who have done on-premise implementations without a disaster recovery plan, moving to the cloud ensures they have a genuine disaster recovery solution,” explains Darren.
Regular testing and verification of these plans provide peace of mind that, in the event of a disaster, such as a major power outage or natural disaster, the business can quickly recover.
Körber’s SaaSsolution can accommodate businesses from 15 to 500 users, accommodating for growth in the short and long term.
“As an organisation grows , they acquire more subscription licenses, enabling scalability without significant additional investments. Flexible scaling ensures that businesses can grow at their own pace without being constrained by their IT infrastructure.”
Serving a diverse clientele
The versatility of these solutions is evident in their widespread adoption across various industries. This diversity showcases the adaptability of the systems to different operational needs, whether it’s managing cold storage for perishable goods or handling complex logistics for spare parts.
“Our client base ranges from large retail brands to mining and healthcare sectors,” says Jamie.
The road ahead: automating
The trend towards increased automation in warehouse management is expected to continue.
“The entry point for automation is now lower and the physical modifications needed are being reduced,” says Jamie.
This shift means that more businesses can access automation technologies, enhancing productivity and efficiency.
Furthermore, voice technology continues to improve, which makes it easier for businesses to integrate voice commands into their operations, improving workflow and reducing errors.
As the logistics industry continues to evolve, the shift towards cloud-based solutions represents an opportunity for businesses to enhance their operations.
The benefits are great: scalability, integration, adaptability, environmental efficiency, and robust disaster recovery.
For businesses considering this transition, the message is clear: embrace the future of warehouse management and reap the rewards of a well-managed, scalable, and environmentally conscious operation.
“The breadth of our offerings ensures that businesses can find a solution tailored to their needs, whether they’re a small enterprise or a large corporation,” says Darren.
To read more about Körber, click here