WES vs WMS vs WCS: understanding their differences and complementarities to optimise your warehouse
To ensure the smooth integration of automated processes and human operations in increasingly automated warehouses, Warehouse Execution Systems (WES) have become indispensable. Serving as the crucial link between Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) and Warehouse Control Systems (WCS), this supply chain software helps to optimise workflows, enhance operational efficiency, and tackle the complexities of Intralogistics 4.0.
01. What is WES software?
Functioning as the central “operational brain” of a warehouse, Warehouse Execution System (WES software) coordinates and optimises all warehouse activities. By integrating automated processes with tasks performed by human operators, it ensures uninterrupted order fulfillment through the optimal allocation of available resources.
Given the growing complexity of logistics, WES software has become indispensable for effectively orchestrating robots, conveyors, sorting systems, order-picking systems, and automated machinery, ultimately delivering a significant competitive advantage.
02. What are the differences between WES, WMS, and WCS?
WES is distinct from other warehouse management systems like WMS and WCS. Although these three types of supply chain software can be complementary, it’s important to understand their individual roles and scopes of operation:
WMS (Warehouse Management System):
A WMS encompasses inventory management, the organisation of storage space, and the control of logistics flows. It offers a comprehensive view of inventory and shipments while also assigning tasks to human operators.
WCS (Warehouse Control System):
A WCS controls and coordinates the automated equipment within a warehouse. It synchronises all automated systems, including conveyors, Goods-to-Person systems, robots, and AGVs, to guarantee optimal performance.
WES (Warehouse Execution System):
Operating in the space between the WMS and WCS, the WES orchestrates workflows and synchronises resources, whether they are human or automated. This results in fast and seamless order execution.
03. Key features of WES
With the growing prevalence of human-robot collaboration in contemporary warehouses, WES software is playing an increasingly vital role. This evolution is further evidenced by the forecast that more than 25% of warehouses will be automated by 2027. (Source: Mordor Intelligence). This change emphasises the importance of hybrid software solutions like WES, as they ensure the effective synergy of inventory management, operational processes, and human workforce.
Here are its main features:
Workflow and order fulfillment optimisation
WES stands out for its ability to analyse various order picking stages in real time. It prevents bottlenecks by dynamically prioritising and allocating workflows. It defines picking and routing strategies—assigning tasks to specific zones or systems based on available resources.
AI-Driven planning
With artificial intelligence (AI), WES can anticipate and adapt to unexpected events. For example, in case of a delivery delay, it automatically reprioritizes tasks to maintain workflow continuity. AI also allows simulation of various scenarios to improve planning during peak periods.
Accurate inventory management and real-time traceability
WES enhances inventory accuracy by using RFID systems, which deliver comprehensive, 360° tracking of goods. Moreover, the software's intelligent design allows for automatic restocking triggers based on real-time inventory levels.
Optimal coordination between humans and machines
WES streamlines the interaction between human operators and automated equipment, like robots, by distributing tasks based on performance and workload.
Proactive analysis and predictive maintenance
By analysing real-time data, the system intelligently predicts potential malfunctions. It issues alerts when anomalies occur and autonomously schedules maintenance to reduce downtime.
Seamless integration with other IT systems
Thanks to its seamless integration with systems like WMS and WCS, WES occupies a central position within the intralogistics ecosystem, facilitating smooth and coherent data exchange across all connected platforms.
04. Toward an all-in-one system?
The ongoing technological evolution is blurring the lines between functionalities. WES is already integrating features traditionally found in WMS and WCS, such as planning capabilities and real-time monitoring. This trend prompts a significant question: could WMS and WCS software eventually become outdated? Are we heading towards a unified system that merges inventory management, automation control, and workflow orchestration?
In the near future, a complete replacement of WMS and WCS by WES is improbable. Currently, these systems operate in a complementary fashion, leveraging their respective strengths:
> While the WMS is responsible for inventory management, the WES software focuses on ensuring efficient task execution by strategically allocating resources and prioritising orders based on demand. Their combined action optimises workflows and minimises processing mistakes.
> The WCS software controls automated equipment (conveyors, robots, AGVs), while WES coordinates their operation. Their synergy enables real-time optimisation of goods movement, ensuring maximum efficiency and reducing downtime.
#connectedintralogistics
France
96 Boulevard du Petit Quinquin
CRT - 1 59812 LESQUIN
Standard : +33 (0)3 20 87 66 96
Germany
Transitic Systems GmbH
Am Scheid 1
57290 Neunkirchen
