Logistics consulting : All processes put to the test
German industry is closely intertwined with all subsectors of logistics, especially with a focus on smooth material flow as well as profound automation. The more efficiently processes can be designed, the greater the cost savings and synergy effects. This means that logistics processes are naturally the Achilles heel of a manufacturing company. Only those who can react flexibly to economic changes or industry trends can remain competitive.
The central question: How can internal processes, workflows and tasks be coordinated and interlinked in such a way that corresponding advantages result? The answer is provided by logistics consulting that is individually tailored to the needs of the company.
proLogistik explains the most important sub-areas of logistics consulting and answers further questions that inevitably arise in this context.
Click here to go to our warehouse management software
What aspects are covered in the context of logistics consulting?
Processes within logistics have always been characterized by optimization and continuous adjustments. Just looking at the production and flow of goods associated with classic "everyday objects" such as toothbrushes, T-shirts or computer hardware shows: Not only is complexity increasing in an increasingly globalized society, but so is the need for individual actors to create economically and technically adequate framework conditions.
A central anchor point: intralogistics in every manufacturing company, which focuses on optimal material and goods flows.
Accordingly, logistics consulting is divided into individual sub-areas, which we would like to explain in more detail below.
Location analysis: How can procurement, production and co. be linked in the best possible way?
When it comes to planning central logistics centers or distribution warehouses, countless factors come into play. On the one hand, it is a question of technical feasibility, but on the other hand, it is also a question of economically sensible planning. Not every location offers the same conditions - which are important to allow for growth and adjustments in production capacity.
In short, logistics planning takes a holistic view of aspects such as procurement, production and distribution with a focus on the location. Depending on the industry and structure, other parameters need to be taken into account.
Warehouse and layout planning: How must the warehouse be structured to enable efficient control?
Central aspects of logistics planning address the need for space and personnel, take into account location factors, strategic corporate goals and also potential warehouse concepts. How must storage and transport equipment be dimensioned? What investments are necessary and economically viable? Such questions are answered by a feasibility analysis, which is always part of a multi-element logistics planning.
In this respect: All aspects that enable optimum use of the warehouse must be taken into account. The turnover rate, the efficient handling of goods, a comprehensive control function and much more is important. This concerns the loading, receiving and unloading area, the warehouse itself and other features of the warehouse layout.
Material flow planning: How can production capacities be utilized in the best possible way?
Processes along the value chain are often separated from each other spatially and also in other dimensions. This requires absolutely transparent, systematic control of all information and material flows.
- The shorter the lead times, the more likely it is that synergy effects can be generated.
- Logistics planning therefore focuses on optimizing material flows - starting with goods receipt, through manufacturing and assembly tasks, to shipping.
In plain language: Material flow planning enables an increase in efficiency in terms of higher utilization of production capacities. The intelligent interaction of hardware and software allows production costs to be reduced, which in turn enables better adaptation of pricing strategies or an increase in margins.
Planning of automation systems: Which subareas are suitable for automating processes and tasks?
A high degree of automation not only reduces administrative effort and eliminates sources of error, but also leads to significantly lower costs through increased efficiency.
- Utilization can be optimized as part of forward-looking warehouse planning.
- Automation processes play an essential role in the course of logistics planning; they are the most visible manifestation of the overarching strategy.
Important: Not every automation brings synergy effects at the same time. It is therefore important to compare potentially possible procedures and standards and to design them to meet the needs of the company. In the context of logistics consulting, factors typical for the industry are included.
Tendering, awarding, acceptance: How can trades be coordinated in the best possible way?
Clearly defined delivery and performance characteristics are important to avoid delays in the operational process and to ensure the commissioning of new warehouse structures. This is exactly where logistics planning comes in and sets framework and boundary conditions that take into account each sub-trade.
This typically includes
- Detailed bills of quantities
- Responsibilities
- Alternative plans
Essentially: All planning and legal aspects are named, classified and evaluated holistically within the scope of logistics consulting. This often goes hand in hand with a provider comparison.
Functional and performance tests: Is everything running as planned?
Before going into regular operation, various scenarios have to be run through and analyzed. This helps avoid costly service interruptions or other restrictions at a later date. All subsections of a logistics system, consisting of hardware and software, are subjected to a kind of "stress test" here.
The following questions are the focus here:
- Are all parameters fully implemented?
- Can all operating and automatic functions be controlled smoothly?
Ultimately: checking all functions and performance characteristics of a bearing is essential before it goes into normal operation. This is exactly where a logistics consultancy comes in and develops a test procedure to simulate tasks in normal operations.
Conclusion:
Logistics consulting is always individually conceived and designed, never an "off-the-shelf" service. The aim here is to treat all parts of the system holistically and to optimize processes. Often, therefore, there is a breakdown into consulting services that take into account either features of the logistics or the respective processes.
