Publication Date

2024

Document Type

Dissertation/Thesis

First Advisor

Moraga, Reinaldo

Degree Name

M.S. (Master of Science)

Legacy Department

Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering

Abstract

In this study, integrated technical solutions designed for large retail logistics (LRL) material handling equipment (MHE) were integrated with advanced technical industry trends to create a warehouse execution/warehouse control system (WES/WCS) distribution center (DC) model. This model was executed using a distributor profitability framework. The resulting process metrics, financial elements, and forecasted financial drivers within the new model were tested against a standard warehouse management system (WMS) DC model without WES or integrated WCS technical solutions. The hypothesis was that using the WES/WCS DC model in automating store functionality would result in superior cost-effective solutions for the P&L/EBITDA lines of accounting. The results indicate hard, tangible cost savings and drastically improved shipping flexibility, paving the way for a more dynamic approach to addressing supply chain challenges. The measured DC operation parameters consisted of chronological encounters critical to the industry, which conducts peak operations during the holiday season(s) and other stock keeping unit business alignment activities. Automated MHE robot concepts inserted into the WCS DC model eliminated costly logistic obstacles typically found within DC operational parameters using fewer assets and personnel. Consequently, the business processes of stock, store, and ship became more interconnected to financial drivers, thereby propelling asset efficiency into shareholder value. The paper also discusses eco-friendly solutions for environmentally sustainable warehousing and how enhanced supply chain flexibility can be gained through predictive analytics. It also provides recommendations on network model extrapolation for strategic business decision-making.

Extent

121 pages

Language

en

Publisher

Northern Illinois University

Rights Statement

In Copyright

Rights Statement 2

NIU theses are protected by copyright. They may be viewed from Huskie Commons for any purpose, but reproduction or distribution in any format is prohibited without the written permission of the authors.

Media Type

Text

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