October 2020 marked the first anniversary of using ProSKU, our new warehouse management system.
Before implementing ProSKU, we relied heavily on the use of spreadsheets and regular stock checks to manage our logistics function. But with year on year expansion it became clear this was not a suitable solution for the size of our operation as we grew especially as we had plans to bring new customers on board to use our 3PL services for whom an effective stock management system was a necessity.
To address this issue, we formed a team to identify and highlight the business needs, and to find the right software product to satisfy them. Many solutions were considered but a common issue with some packages was the scope (and cost) of the software on offer. We recognized that our key need was to control stock and manage orders, and we were not looking for a complex ERP solution.
ProSKU was chosen as a off the shelf solution which proved to be simple to implement, and more importantly, to use. The ProSKU team were fully involved in the early stages of implementation, providing answers to questions, helping us with configuration, giving advice on suitable hardware and delivering user training to the logistics team.
The system was setup in our newly commissioned unit, which had been installed with a purpose designed racking system from SEC storage solutions. ProSKU provided further support to manage the creation of warehouse locations and the electronic upload of product data required for the system.
Since going live, the ProSKU system has delivered multiple operational benefits to the company. Firstly it provides live stock level information which is accessible and available 24/7 to both OPT operational staff as well as our relevant customers. Secondly, because of better warehouse organisation and improved data recording, order picking has become a faster, easier process.
Reporting of stock and order status is also much simplified, with all information pulled directly from the system. The resulting increase in speed and efficiency has allowed us to go from picking, packing and processing one delivery a week to multiple daily deliveries, helping us meet the demands of Brexit.
The feedback from OPT operational staff confirms the benefits of the system: “ProSKU has allowed us to achieve maximum efficiency, and keeping track of stock has been simple and hassle free. The software on the handset is easy to navigate and laid out in an easy-to-follow fashion. Customer service has been quick and informative when queries or issues arise”.
Another of our operatives added: “No more searching for stock because we know exactly where everything is located, making the process of expediting orders quicker. Allows us to maximize space in the warehouse and always remain organized. We would be lost without it!”
As some of our needs have changed and developed, ProSKU have been on hand to provide elements of custom functionality, as well as new features rolled out in line with their product roadmap. Any issues that arise in daily use always receive a quick response, with useful advice to help us avoid similar issues in future. We look forward to continuing to work with ProSKU as our logistics department grows and prospers.
