The analysis of wms management system: a multi case study in developer companies and users

Abstract

In recent years the number of companies that use WMS on its storage operation has increased. However, a great part of organizations that adopt this system has difficulties in the implementation process or in fully exploit its resources. In this context, this research aims to analyze the WMS system, identifying the key barriers inherent in its implementation process, the benefits and features curently offered to the market, as well as the trends to the tool development. This analysis was performed through the method of multicase study under the perspective of two system developers and three users. Based on the content analysis of the informations from literature review, the semi-structered interviews and the documentary analysis performed was possible to identify as the main difficulties in the process of system implementation the flaws in registration of products and addresses, mapping of logistics processes, the staff training and cultural work change. Regarding the system benefits, stands out the better operational control and the stock accuracy improvement. Finally the trends for the tool improvement involve linking the system with tablets and smartphones, integrations with RFID technology and customized reports generation.