Inventory management is a priority for any manufacturing company. Having an inventory management system helps ensure business efficiency and minimize errors. In this Acceleration Case Study, learn how Seymour, a spray paint manufacturer, improved its efficiency by partnering with Paper-Less, which specializes in manufacturing execution systems, or MES. With an automated solution, Seymour was able to reduce product returns and boost pick time efficiencies.
Business Challenge – Automating Inventory Management and Shipping
Inventory management and shipping operations for Seymour involved an index card system. The paper-based system sometimes caused employees to pick the wrong products, leading to other costly mistakes. The company was in need of a “pick and ship” system.
Seymour engaged its employees to better understand how to improve its processes.
- Seymour set the following goals for improvement:
- Minimize paper processing
- Automate inventory management and eliminate errors
- Streamline shipping operations
- Increase financial efficiency
Automating the majority of tasks would lead to cost savings, while also making employees’ jobs more manageable. The company set out to implement an automation software solution to meet these needs.
Software Solution – Paper-Less
Seymour decided to partner with Paper-Less to help boost efficiency throughout the organization. Paper-Less worked with Seymour during an auditing process. Eventually, Seymour decided to restructure its operations and implement an MES system provided by Paper-Less.
Paper-Less implemented an automated program for picking and sending out packages. Seymour employees now use hand scanners and tablets to manage inventory. A worker scans the pick list, generates a screen, and chooses whichever item is needed.
Once the product is selected, the system confirms they have the correct item and can quickly move on to the next task. On the other hand, if a worker chooses the wrong item, the scanner will automatically beep and notify them of the mistake. This new process is nearly error-free.
Paper-Less helped Seymour throughout the process, including with auditing and testing solutions before launch. Paper-Less was also helpful in providing a fresh perspective to further improve inventory management and shipping.
Final Results
Although Seymour remains a paper-based operation, the company now uses less paper than before. The use of automation for inventory management makes it easier for employees to find the right products and played a key role in reducing mistakes. Overall, employees at Seymour are more efficient and productive.
The new system and partnership reduced product returns and improved pick time efficiencies. In addition, employees are able to quickly identify and use paint supplies before they expire, resulting in significant cost savings.
