TRUCKNET - DIGITAL MAGAZINE - December 2020

areas of the warehouse. Smaller chances of mistakes will also lead to a noticeable improvement in the transmission of information within the warehouse. In addition, with robots involved in warehouse management working hours of the warehouse can be extended to 24/7, resulting in much more cargo loading and deliveries. What are the negative sides of using automated systems in the warehouse? By bringing in robots to the workplace we often remove people from their jobs. Workers can be replaced when technology develops and improves, especially when machines can take on more complicated and difficult tasks. Purchasing equipment for work in the warehouse demands that a company consider the long-term benefits, due to the high investment price for automation. Although labor costs may be reduced (fewer insurance payments and employee benefits), the warehouse still needs to pay for maintenance and programming. We must keep in mind that robots are limited in terms of their flexibility and as opposed to humans they are not able to analyze and apply critical thinking. Humans can still outperform the machine in many respects. In addition, robots are not able to respond appropriately to changing circumstances or unpredictable situations. - Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) The big game-changer for warehouse automation was the development of the Warehouse Management System, a cost-effective method to achieve improved efficiency and more accurate inventory. A warehouse management system is a software application providing better support and optimization of warehouse functionality and distribution center management. 12