Key information:
However, another piece of the logistics puzzle is very often overlooked, which is the warehouse marking area.In this mini-tutorial, we will face the perverse question – what we will not achieve by omitting the area of warehouse labeling and how the absence of this relatively simple to implement element, will affect the functioning of our warehouse.
Warehouse marking vs. functional task
The primary task of warehouse labeling is a functional element, related to the organization of warehouse operations by the
WMS-class information system.
This type of system manages the receipt, storage and release of goods from the warehouse, streamlining these processes through the use of
barcode technology.
Functional labeling is primarily high-bay racking labels, floor labels, or overhead labels, which are used to identify the storage location flawlessly, and enable it to be identified by a barcode or two-dimensional datamatrix code, or RFID technology.
The lack of functional markings, or the use of markings of poor workmanship, can result in the disruption of WMS operation, which can consequently lead to an increase in mistakes and errors in the handling of warehouse processes.
The lack of functional markings, or the use of markings of poor workmanship, can result in the disruption of WMS operation, which can consequently lead to an increase in mistakes and errors in the handling of warehouse processes.
Housekeeping signage and 5S system in the warehouse
Another element that should not be overlooked when implementing warehouse efficiency improvement projects is the work order aspect of implementing proper warehouse labeling.
It is this type of signage and the introduction of the 5S system into the warehouse make its organization much more systematized. An example of 5S signs are adhesive floor marking tapes that better organize traffic in a distribution center. Other examples include
dry erase boards
, whose purpose is to improve communication between warehouse employees, etc.
Giving up orderly signage means that your warehouse will certainly not function as well as it would if you introduced proper signage and a
5S system
. It is not worth leaving such important matters as security, effective communication or workplace order to chance.
Employer branding in the warehouse - to make work better and simpler
The warehouse is not only the area of the hall itself, but also offices, conference rooms, canteens, sanitary facilities or the external environment of the buildings. Good warehouse signage must not “forget” these spheres as well, harmonizing with the overall visual concept. In this way, the employee will feel comfortable in his workplace, easily find the right way to the warehouse canteen.
By abandoning the area of so-called “wayfinding” we choose to go against the spirit of the times. It is the subtle elements of interior design, that make the workplace cozy and employees like to stay there. It is also an important part of your organization’s image.
To sum up our considerations - investment in warehouse signage, is an element of optimization of logistics processes, which is relatively inexpensive and its importance is really high. Expanding the concept with wayfinding and space branding, means going a step further in a really good direction.
