Data is one of the greatest assets we have at our fingertips. If you want to set up even the simplest packaging line, you will have to use the proper technology to understand the magnitude of your packaging operations. Whether you have to determine the number of products going into packaging equipment or calculate the amount of energy consumed in different warehouse operations, you will have to refer to data.
The advent of packaging automation and the development of more sophisticated machines have necessitated packaging personnel to learn to manage even more complex data. What’s more is that these machines are connected, forming a network. This network allows different components of a packaging line to communicate with each other to carry out packaging operations.
Data collection
You first have to ensure an accurate collection of data as the first step. In this day and age, we can measure data in a warehouse with the help of a variety of systems and equipment. An overall increase in automated equipment handling operations and machines has made it easier to track numbers and data.
Data has to be stored as it is collected. That’s where cloud-based services can come in handy. These services allow users to store their data for the long term and access it anywhere in the world. You can store every necessary bit of data that can help you have useful insights.
How companies benefit from data
There are endless benefits of data, particularly when it comes to managing a warehouse. Collecting data is just a start. The real way to benefit from it is to convert it into actionable insights that can help improve operations.
A few ways companies use data to make smarter decisions are the following.
- Labor planning: This procedure refers to the understanding of how labor can be used smartly to carry out an operation. It also discusses a comparison between work done by individuals and machines.
- Improving safety: Data also helps businesses look at safety issues. It helps them plan safer outcomes.
- Inventory: Data about inventory helps understand what resources or supplies are required for a particular procedure.
- Operational issues: Data about operational issues helps businesses understand the root causes of problems.
Data points to consider in your warehouse
Now, we will discuss top data points that are critical for any warehouse, packaging line, or distribution center.
Order accuracy
Order accuracy refers to what goes out and what comes in. if you have inventory issues, you can look into data to find out how your orders and shipments seem from suppliers’ ends. You can invest in a vision system if you are facing issues with your order fulfillment.
Equipment downtime
The best thing about modern-day machines is that they allow operators to look into the problems they go through conveniently. This information will help your operators and engineers to get a better understanding of any requirement for troubleshooting or upgrade.
Warehouse capacity
A lot of your warehouse operations depend on the warehouse capacity. If you remain at the maximum capacity most of the time, you may need to enhance your machinery to improve efficiency.
