Distribution and Materials Handling Focus: Our Weekly Feature Article on Topics Related to Distribution Management and Material Handling Strategies and Technologies  
 
 
  -June 15, 2008 -  

Logistics News: Understanding Task Interleaving in the Distribution Center

 
 

Potential Productivity Gains of 20%, but there are Many Challenges

 
     
 

SCDigest Editorial Staff

SCDigest Says:
An intelligent WMS can understand the total work pool that is available on the floor, and look for a complementary task that can be linked to the original task assigned to the operator.

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“Task Interleaving” is one of the most powerful concepts in Warehouse Management System (WMS) theory and practice. Though more talked about than actually used, task interleaving is a key element of the cost justification for many new WMS implementations. Many companies also use task interleaving as an opportunity to drive additional savings after an initial WMS implementation, or to enhance results from in-house developed warehouse systems.

What is Task Interleaving?

Task interleaving is an approach to assigning work to vehicle-based operators that seeks to drive efficiencies by linking different work task types (e.g., putaway and replenishment), rather than dedicating workers to a specific task type.

As shown in the illustration below, in a traditional warehouse system, workers on mobile equipment perform specific DC tasks, and return to repeat those tasks upon completion. The result can be substantial levels of “deadheading,” or driving the fork truck or other equipment empty.

(Distribution and Materials Handling Article - Continued Below)

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Source: Supply Chain Digest

With task interleaving, the WMS looks to combine different types of tasks to reduce this deadheading, and drive productivity gains that can be as high as 20%.

As show in the graphic below, an intelligent WMS can understand the total work pool that is available on the floor, and look for a complementary task that can be linked to the original task assigned to the operator.

 


Source: Supply Chain Digest

Sounds great – but, in practice, there are both operational and technology challenges. We’ll explore both of those next week.

What are your thoughts on task interleaving? Any additions to our basic overview? Let us know your thoughts at the Feedback button below.

 
     
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