If you’re searching for a Warehouse Management System (WMS), chances are your current system isn’t keeping up with your growing business needs. So, let’s start by clarifying the difference between a WMS and a WCS and why your business might need both.
What is a Warehouse Management System (WMS)?
A Warehouse Management System (WMS) is software that helps manage your inventory and warehouse operations. It integrates order information, product data, and storage locations, optimizing inventory management. When orders come in, a WMS organizes picking processes (whether by wave, batch, or zone), ensures accurate item locations, and helps pack the correct number of items for shipping.
What is a Warehouse Control System (WCS)?
A Warehouse Control System (WCS) is software that sits below the WMS and executes the orders your WMS sends out. The WCS controls conveyor belts, sorters, Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (AS/RS), robots, and other automated systems. It ensures real-time communication between all the moving parts in your warehouse, guiding products efficiently from picking to packing to shipping.
Think of the WMS as the brain, planning and organizing your warehouse processes, while the WCS is the body, ensuring smooth execution of those plans by controlling equipment on the floor.
Why Would a Company Need a WCS?
As businesses grow and warehouses evolve, automation becomes a key factor in maintaining operational efficiency. A WCS is critical if you’re using equipment like automated storage systems, robotic pickers, or sortation equipment. It ensures smooth coordination between your WMS and warehouse machinery, reducing errors and improving speed. Even if you’re not using this level of automation yet, implementing a WMS built on a WCS can future-proof your operations as you scale.
How PickPro Combines WMS and WCS
PickPro started as a WCS and evolved into a robust WMS with built-in WCS capabilities. Unlike many providers that sell these systems separately, PickPro offers a seamless solution. This not only simplifies integration but also enhances warehouse efficiency from inventory management to real-time control of your automation systems.
What Performance Capabilities Should You Look for in a WCS?
1. Speed and Reliability
A fast and reliable WCS is crucial for high-volume warehouses. For example, as products move along a conveyor, scanners need to communicate quickly with the WCS to ensure each item is correctly identified and routed. An on-premise WCS ensures that this communication is fast and reliable, reducing lag times that could otherwise slow down your operations.
2. Compatibility with Equipment
Your WCS should be compatible with the most common types of warehouse equipment and controllers. PickPro integrates with industry-standard machines like Hytrol Sorters, Kardex VLMs, and advanced systems like AMRs from HAI Robotics. The WCS reads scanners from Cognex, SICK, Omron and Banner. Then it can communicate with leading machine controllers from brands like Siemens, Rockwell Allen-Bradley and Beckhoff, ensuring your equipment runs seamlessly together.
3. Scalability
As your business grows, your WCS should be able to scale along with it. PickPro is designed to grow with your business, making it easy to add new equipment or expand your warehouse capabilities without having to overhaul your entire system.
Why PickPro Delivers Maximum Value
At PeakLogix, we offer a WMS with a built-in WCS, providing maximum value for businesses looking to streamline their operations. With PickPro, there’s no need to worry about future integration challenges—you’ll be ready for automation from day one. In short, with PickPro, you can “do more with less,” simplifying your operations and preparing your business for the future.
Interested in learning more about how PickPro can transform your warehouse operations? Contact us today for a demo, and see how we can help you scale your business with integrated WMS and WCS capabilities.
FAQ:
Q: What is the difference between WMS and WCS?
A: A Warehouse Management System (WMS) focuses on planning and inventory management, while a Warehouse Control System (WCS) executes orders by managing automated warehouse equipment.
Q: Why should I invest in a WCS?
A: A WCS improves operational efficiency by coordinating equipment like conveyors, sorters, and robots, especially as warehouse automation grows.
