Dr. Thomas + Partner
"I recommend the gradual implementation of a retrofit"
Günther Pfisterer, COO Dr. Thomas + Partner, on the right strategy for warehouse modernizations.
material flow: Where and with what do you start when it comes to the idea of modernization? What advice do you have for the logistics managers among our readers?
Günther Pfisterer: I recommend the gradual implementation of a retrofit. Modernization means making changes "on the fly". We often encounter the assumption that the changeover should take place in one fell swoop in order to avoid downtime and opportunity costs at all costs. However, the opposite is true. After all, relying on a 'big bang' for a planned retrofit is extremely risky both operationally and economically. The brown field plays by completely different rules than a new greenfield site. The costs of a migration are often underestimated, especially in cases where, for example, there is shift operation. A rational modernization strategy should therefore lead to a new system in a risk-minimized and continuous manner and sustainably optimize the warehouse. In many cases, existing logistics systems are only 'renewed' on the software side, as there is often great potential lying dormant here. The best cost-benefit ratio is achieved if the existing warehouse technology fulfills its purpose in this way.
mfl: Which of your company's products or services is the first thing that comes to mind when you think of modernization?
Pfisterer: The development of migration and fallback strategies. At TUP, we specialize in minimizing risks and defining small stages of commissioning wherever possible. In this way, suitable individual measures can be implemented even during active warehouse operations - in some cases even by the operational staff themselves. From the replacement of the warehouse management system to the subsequent implementation of automation solutions, if this makes sense.
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