WMS versus WCS

摘要

Warehouse management systems (WMS) and warehouse control systems (WCS)... They both have their role to play, but which is right for your distribution centre operations? Chris Castaldi of W&H Systems offers some insight. Warehouse management systems (WMS) are used in many distribution centres and warehouses to run operations like picking, put away, and receiving. Similarly, to manage automated material handling equipment, warehouse control systems (WCS) are employed. However, while both have a role to play in distribution operations, modern system designs have distorted the difference between the two, making it more difficult to choose the best system. Typically a WMS controls the movement and storage of materials within a warehouse and processes the associated transactions. It focuses on demand, planning, financials and linking to the extended supply chain. A WCS acts as the 'traffic controller' within the DC, directing the real time activities, ensuring everything is running smoothly while maximising the efficiency of the material handling subsystems.