WMS Buying Process, Just One of the Many Changes From COVID-19
There’s been a lot of changes that have come about from the COVID-19 pandemic, the WMS software buyer behavior and the software buying process are just a few of these changes. Cadre has witnessed the necessary changes in the process and realize it may be a long time before the return to normal!
Changing Timelines
According to this blog by Prospect Path, buyers have become more hesitant about making long term commitments, but in most cases it’s not a matter of if but when as some projects have been put on hold. In certain industries demand has increased, where companies are focusing on finding new software to keep up with demand. In some cases, there may be other priorities as they are helping facilitate employees working from home and some companies working at limited capacities.
Changing How Meetings are Conducted
The WMS buying process used to include many face-to-face conference meetings and whiteboarding, but the pandemic has caused this to change due to some employees working remotely and social distancing measures delaying or complicating the process. In the past the vendor and buyer would get together to walk through the warehouse process – pick, pack, ship, and replenishments and any other details or functionality that the WMS will include. As this can be a long process and can extend out several weeks, you can’t recreate that same in person experience through a video conference or phone call. Calls tend to be shorter, need to include breaks, or you need to come up with inventive ways to keep listeners engaged. The desire to provide a solid analysis of requirements remains, but it has become more difficult to achieve in the current environment.
Some companies are using WMS technology to help keep warehouse workers safe. Some examples include adding a prompt to the WMS to ask employees if they are wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) before they start work or limiting the number of users in an area to help administer social distancing measures. Or you can implement a dock scheduler that helps to manage appointments, staff, and loading bays to help eliminate problems with resource availability and overbooking; also allowing for less interaction between parties.
The good news is, according to the State of Retailing Online 2020 report, it found that 73% of retailers are investing in WMS and 64% said it was simply the cost of doing business. WMS software is an important part of the warehouse, so it is a matter of being creative and flexible throughout the buying and software implementation process.
If you are currently looking for a Warehouse Management System, we would love to help you find the right solution for your company, contact us today.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a typical WMS implementation take during COVID-19?
WMS implementation timelines have become more unpredictable due to COVID-19. Remote meetings, social distancing requirements, and shifting business priorities can extend the process beyond traditional timeframes. Many companies are experiencing delays as they balance WMS projects with immediate needs like remote work setup and safety protocols.
What safety features can be added to WMS during the pandemic?
Modern WMS can incorporate COVID-19 safety features including PPE compliance prompts before work starts, user limits in specific warehouse areas for social distancing, and dock scheduling systems to manage appointments and reduce face-to-face interactions. These features help maintain warehouse operations while protecting worker health.
Why are companies still investing in WMS despite economic uncertainty?
According to industry reports, 73% of retailers continue investing in WMS because it’s essential for business operations. Many companies experiencing increased demand need WMS to scale efficiently, while others view it as a competitive necessity. The technology helps maintain productivity even with reduced staffing and safety restrictions.
What alternatives exist for in-person WMS requirement gathering sessions?
Virtual requirement gathering requires creative approaches since traditional face-to-face whiteboarding sessions aren’t possible. Companies are using shorter video calls with frequent breaks, interactive online collaboration tools, and structured virtual walkthroughs of warehouse processes. While challenging, these methods can still achieve thorough requirements analysis with proper planning.
Should companies delay WMS projects until after the pandemic?
Most experts suggest it’s not a matter of if but when companies implement WMS. While some projects are on hold due to immediate priorities, delaying too long can put companies at a competitive disadvantage. The key is adapting the buying process to current constraints rather than postponing essential technology investments.
