WCS reliability is not a buzz word, it provides a specific benefit according to Hite, When a WCS goes down, the lost man hours, late shipments and cost to the warehouse, can be tremendous add diminished customer satisfaction, and it can literally cost the client significantly more money. The WCS market has grown because it has taken on the traditional transactional processes that the warehouse management system (WMS) historically provided, such as order fulfillment, shipping and localized inventory control.

The reason WMS is no longer providing this transactional role is that when a WMS operates more than a single warehouse, they are generally located off site, and tend to lose transaction speed.

WCS configurability and flexibility

According to Hite, Configurability is critical because many large distributors really do not know exactly what they need when evaluating various systems; rather they have basic ideas, but nothing concrete. Since a great WCS is configurable, it can adapt to their needs without re-writing the code and generally without increasing the cost.

Hite also suggests, Flexibility is also critical because WCS software modules are scalable and reconfigurable to quickly accommodate the growing demands and changing business goals. Plus an integrated SQL database allows QC to tailor the look and feel of the application to best meet the clients needs. This allows for the WCS to expand the system with ease. Rich has seen many clients needs and demands increase and their systems have doubled and even tripled in size since the initial WCS installation.

Ownership

A WCS is for high volume distribution centres, companies that process thousands of orders per day and utilize conveyor

The unique elements of the most effective WCS software includes a carrier compliant shipping solution, order management, wave planning, cartonization (very few provide cartonization); most WCS have a larger MHE (material handling equipment) focus or are more about routing rather than an operational focus.

The best WCS solutions fill in the functionality gaps of the WMS or ERP that may extend the life or even prevent a costly replacement of the warehouse customers current business systems. Many companies offer Warehouse Control Systems but there are very few that specialize in it. Companies like FKI Logistex, Diamond Phoenix and Fortna provide a WCS, but not as their core business. They typically provide conveyor systems and WCS is merely another offering.