Building design, layout and efficiency

A key component in the supply chain, a warehouse is much more than a building. It is where a customer order or a request to supply is turned into an order which is then shipped out and delivered to an individual or a business. This must be achieved in the most cost effective and efficient way. This is particularly important when it comes to satisfying web-based ordering systems, whether they are direct to consumers or as part of the supply chain. At iGSG our intralogistics experience, means we can offer advice on a wide range of facility and warehouse matters.

iGSG have extensive experience in assisting customers in the identification of issues which can improve existing facilities without the need to look at a brand new warehouse. We achieve this through improved facility design, layout and operational efficiency. We carry out audits to ensure we have all the primary data required. These audits investigate:

Operational processes
IT systems
Materials handling equipment
Storage layout
Warehouse building design

An understanding of the issues and potential solutions could avoid the perceived need for expenditure on a new facility.

When your warehouse or distribution centre capacity is at bursting point, and costs are escalating while service levels are not being met, it is natural to assume that a bigger warehouse would go a long way to addressing the issues. That maybe the answer but how can you be sure? Could you remedy the situation and/or buy time by investigating the primary cause of the existing situation? Could a “smarter” warehouse be the real answer?

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If the need for a new warehouse facility has been confirmed, important decisions need to be made. Companies rarely have in-house expertise in warehouse facility layout and design. The common response is to approach equipment/systems suppliers to help with design. Suppliers will naturally suggest solutions that can be met by their range of equipment. At iGSG, our approach is not aligned to any individual supply contract or arrangements, we have a consultation approach.

Our warehouse design begins with a review of the existing operations and the gathering of data. The warehouse design is influenced by the analysis of this data as well as working with the client. Further historical data is analysed in order to build up a picture of the operational warehouse requirements.

In consultation with the client, the warehouse requirements are then factored for growth in inventory, fulfilment and despatch. This forms the performance specification which provides the basis for the warehouse design options. We go through a three stage process:

Warehouse Objectives

The criteria, by which each warehouse design option is judged, are set. These can include acceptable ROI, implementation cost, operational costs, etc. The constraints that will shape the warehouse design options need to be identified. These will include amongst others, capital, timing, client capability, site/building availability etc.

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Warehouse Design & Layout Options

Once the objectives are agreed a number of warehouse layout options are designed and costed. The designs include CAD drawings of the warehouse layouts as well as expansion options. Materials handling and other equipment needs are also identified and included. The warehouse design options, with implementation and operational costs, are then presented to the client. The client can then make an informed decision as to the preferred option.

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Detailed Warehouse Layout and Design

Once the client had chosen an option the detailed layout and design of the preferred warehouse is produced. This will include, performance specifications, equipment layout, facility footprint and any building upgrades or construction costs. It also includes a specification of static and mobile materials handling equipment, racking and shelving.

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