Operations
Warehouse process redesign before ERP go-live
At a glance
- Type
- Operations
- Use case
- Growing business ERP decision support
- Recommended action
- Use before vendor demos or partner final selection
Align receiving, put-away, picking, and stocktake routines with ERP controls before launch.
Do not automate a broken warehouse process; redesign key workflows before system build.
Define operational KPIs such as pick accuracy, dispatch performance, and inventory variance at location level.
Train supervisors first so frontline coaching continues after consultants leave site.
Why this guide matters
- Do not automate a broken warehouse process; redesign key workflows before system build.
- Define operational KPIs such as pick accuracy, dispatch performance, and inventory variance at location level.
- Train supervisors first so frontline coaching continues after consultants leave site.
What a good approach looks like
- Map current and future workflows side by side, then quantify expected improvements before design sign-off.
- Define operational KPIs and target levels before build completion so go-live support has clear priorities.
- Train floor leaders first and equip them with daily checklists for receiving, picking, packing, and stock adjustments.
- After go-live, run a daily operations huddle to resolve exceptions quickly and protect service levels.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Selecting software before agreeing the future operating model and decision criteria.
- Allowing one department to dominate the design while finance, operations, and IT assumptions remain untested.
- Using generic demos and partner promises instead of evidence from real scenarios, real data, and real reporting needs.
Practical next steps
- Document success metrics, owner accountabilities, and a realistic sequencing plan across finance, operations, and technology teams before committing budget.
- Use a weekly risk review with named owners, due dates, and mitigation actions so scope discussions do not restart every fortnight.
- Treat the guide as a working playbook and use it in steering meetings, partner workshops, and stage-gate reviews rather than leaving it as background reading.