To achieve the highest degree of picking accuracy, integrating inventory management software with an automated storage and retrieval system enables smart functionality such as inventory monitoring. In addition to keeping track of the contents stored within the machine, the software also interfaces with a facility’s warehouse management system (WMS) and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems. This function allows managers to closely monitor stock levels in real time—and potentially eliminate physical counts—for better inventory control.

For example, in systems equipped with an RF barcode scanner, the operator can be required to scan each picked item. The data captured by the scanner is relayed to the inventory control software, which verifies that the picked part is the same one required by the order. This barcode recognition feature can also be used when replenishing inventory in the system. During restocking, the operator scans both the item and its destination to verify placement into the correct storage location. Adding scanning to a storage and retrieval system ensures additional accuracy in order picking and SKU replenishment, significantly reducing mispicks.

Likewise, for operations that stock a few high dollar value items, or regulated products requiring tighter control, the software can be configured to require a barcode scan only when triggered by certain parameters. Qualifiers can be limited to certain transactions, product types or item storage locations, selectively boosting accuracy and control without sacrificing pick speed.

For facilities requiring an operator to match part numbers or pick items from a specific batch, lot or serial number—visual verification can be tedious, time consuming and error-prone. For these applications, barcode scanning can be used to verify with the inventory management software the correct item has been picked, saving time, ensuring accuracy.

Finally, in highly regulated industries such as medical device, healthcare and pharmaceuticals, the same software functionality can be leveraged for its track-and-trace capabilities. That’s because the software maintains a record of the item, the date it was picked, the operator who picked it and the order it fulfilled. Should a defect be identified, or a recall required, the software can quickly determine the locations of both stocked and shipped products.