How cloud-based WMS software will boost your warehouse
Cloud-based WMS software uses the latest technology to make your warehouse more efficient, accurate and safe. This blog post outlines why it is important for you to embrace the latest warehouse technology, and what to have in mind when doing so. We will also introduce our cloud-based nyce.logic WMS system.
What is a cloud-based WMS?
A cloud-based WMS (warehouse management system) is hosted on a cloud, being accessible over the internet. Accessing the functionality online instead of having it installed locally (on-premise) makes your business less hardware-dependent. You can switch to a subscription model available on many different devices, instead of getting drawn into potentially expensive IT projects to stay up to date.
Do you want to learn more about the basics of WMS systems? Read our blog post What is a WMS?
Four types of cloud-based WMS software
SaaS solutions
SaaS (Software as a Service) WMS systems are popular for good reason; they are hosted and managed by the software vendor, eliminating the need for in-house IT management. The solutions are also easily scalable and regularly updated, with a low upfront cost. If your business lacks extensive IT resources, a SaaS WMS is a good option.
PaaS solutions
PaaS (Platform as a Service) means that the system is developed on a platform from a cloud service provider. Your business is provided with the underlying infrastructure, but you have to manage the application itself. It gives you greater control over the setup; the downside is that you need to have in-house technical expertise and resources available to manage your PaaS WMS.
IaaS solutions
A IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service) WMS setup relies on rented digital infrastructure. Your business rents servers, storage and networks from the cloud provider, taking responsibility for managing it. An IaaS setup gives you full control over the WMS and digital infrastructure, but the downside is that it requires significant IT expertise to manage. The IT resources can easily become very costly.
Custom cloud solutions
Another WMS option is custom cloud solutions, such as private and hybrid clouds. A private cloud means that your organization has a dedicated cloud, hosted on-premises or by a third-party provider. Hybrid cloud means combining a private cloud with SaaS, PaaS or IaaS services. These solutions are highly customizable, but managing them requires significant IT resources which can become costly.
8 advantages of cloud-based WMS solutions
Scalability
Retail businesses are ever-evolving, and the technological solutions must be adaptable. Cloud-based WMS solutions are highly scalable to accommodate growth and seasonal fluctuations. Being able to scale up and down without hardware investments and costly downtime is a big step forward for any warehouse.
Cost-efficiency
Most cloud-based WMS systems run on a subscription basis, eliminating the need for major software or hardware investments. Using the power of cloud computing means that you will not need costly infrastructure. It is a truly cost-effective solution that many businesses find appealing.
Full accessibility
The anywhere, anytime accessibility is greatly appreciated by users. Managing your warehouse remotely on any device with an internet connection opens up new possibilities, proving particularly useful for operations with multiple locations.
Automatic updates
On-premise WMS systems usually need to be manually updated. It can take up resources and leave outdated devices vulnerable to security threats. Cloud-based WMS systems are automatically updated, completely eliminating these concerns.
Data security
Modern cloud-based setups are as safe as can be, offering advanced security measures and automatic backups. The latest encryption and secure data transfer protocols safeguards your data from intruders. As updates are performed in the cloud instead of on local devices, your data will never be vulnerable due to outdated software.
Extensive integration capabilities
Many warehouses are part of complex supply chains where there is a lot to gain from integrations. Cloud-based WMS systems can be integrated with POS, CRM and ERP platforms, interconnecting your business.
Real-time reporting and analytics
A cloud-based setup can be a great source of valuable insights and improvements. By using the real-time reporting and analytics functionality available in modern systems, you can optimize processes, reduce costs, and improve decision-making.
Quick implementation
Cloud-based WMS systems are usually quicker to implement than on-premise alternatives. A general estimation for our system nyce.logic is 4-6 months, depending on business requirements and scale.
What functionality should a quality cloud-based WMS have?
Are you in the market for a cloud-based WMS system? We recommend that you have these requirements in mind:
- Accessibility on many devices
- Robust safety features
- Scalability
- Broad integration capabilities
- Ease of use
Transitioning to a cloud-based WMS
Many businesses understandably worry about major technological transitions, such as changing WMS. Will it prove more costly than expected, and will there be downtime and lower productivity over a period? Luckily, many cloud-based WMS systems are delivered as SaaS solutions on a subscription basis, eliminating many common concerns. No huge IT projects or hardware investments - you will be able to get started way faster than anticipated.
Conclusion
A cloud-based WMS has a lot to offer all types of warehouses, regardless of scale and industry. Embracing the latest technology allows you to work more efficiently, accurately and safely than ever before. It is a great way to take your warehouse operation to the next level.
Introducing nyce.logic WMS
Our cloud-based nyce.logic WMS is built by and for logistic experts. It will allow you to get the best out of cloud computing, using powerful modules to continually improve warehouse operations. Are you ready to reduce complexity and accelerate your business growth?