April 26, 2002—The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) has just published a WERCwatch report titled “Growing Use of Technology in the Warehouse.” Technology applications in warehouse operations continue to grow and flourish. A survey of WERC members conducted in July 2001 and compiled in this new report reveals that a variety of technology options are being used primarily to improve quality, but also to control costs.
For the purpose of this report, technology was defined as: “the application of the methods, tools, and materials that a firm can use for movement and storage of materials and information through a warehouse operation.” The survey sought answers to the following questions:
- What technologies are currently being used or are likely additions in the warehouse?
- What operational changes were made as a result of implementing new technologies?
- How have human resource decisions changed because of technology in the warehouse?
- What factors influenced the decision to incorporate technology in the warehouse?
- What are the primary benefits and obstacles derived from the new technology?
- What are the predictions for the future of technology?
This practical report offers insights into current trends in warehousing technology, as well as information as to what other companies are doing to upgrade and improve their facilities’ technology.
To purchase a copy of the WERCwatch report, contact the WERC office at 630/990-0001. Or visit WERC for complete ordering information. The cost is $10.00 for members and $20.00 for non-members.
