Warehouse Efficiency: More than Automation
Your job is to increase productivity, make sure the metaphorical gears are greased, and that your employees are happy. The most efficient companies know how to handle their machinery and their employees, finding the balance that puts their business at the peak of performance.
Productivity and Warehouse Workers
Warehouse automation and the increased acceptance of warehouse technology has had an immense impact on production and logistics since the industrial revolution, but the human element has remained a necessary part of the success of any warehouse. The hands that make sure things get done remain the most important asset and resource. Consult the people who make your business possible.
Communicate, Educate, Involve
Your employees are invested in the success of your business. Invest the time and resources it takes to communicate with your employees about the status of your company and what you are doing to improve their performance.
Communicating with your employees is the first step towards knowing how to best educate and learn from your employees. There may be things they know that you have not seen or been told before that conversation.
Your employees need to know that you are involved in what and how they are doing, and that they are involved in your decision making. They know how things run on the floor, how efficiently your automation operates and what is hindering their abilities. Valuing their input about how your warehouse operates will help to earn their respect and help you run a better business.
Training your personnel is important to the success of your business and the productivity of your employees. Communicating your needs while listening to theirs will only add to the success of your business.
What and Who Works
Machines, computers, and automation are important when making sure that your business meets deadlines and stays on schedule, but the gears only keep moving if you to listen to the people who operate the machines and computers. Efficiency can be achieved by keeping the lines of communication open between you and your employees.
