Seven steps to WMS success

By Staff -- Modern Materials Handling, 3/1/2001

While quite sophisticated and proven, warehouse management systems (WMS) are far from the plug-and-play software packages used for standard office applications. That means, says Bryan Fricke, principal consultant with PriceWaterhouseCoopers'logistics/WMS practice in Atlanta, that seven steps should be followed to test out the WMS software.

System testing is the point where everything comes together into a complete warehousing solution, he explains. By performing a rigorous system test on the WMS system before it is implemented, risk is minimized and the transition is smoother.

Fricke outlined these seven test steps in a Warehousing Education and Research Council newsletter:

1. Base testing.

This can begin as soon as the WMS package gets loaded and configured in a test environment. Take the package out for a test drive to make sure screen layouts, menu selections, and basic features operate as expected.

2. Modification testing.

Make sure each modification gets tested individually by the project team. Check for software glitches, and make sure business requirements are satisfied. Track each modification's version and delivery date.

3. Functional testing.

Dissect each warehouse process into several scenarios to ensure the WMS satisfies each one.

4. Interface testing.

This checks the communication pathways from the WMS to the host systems, the wireless communications network, and the materials handling systems. Each interface needs to be tested individually in a point-to-point manner before integration testing can begin.

5. Integration testing.

All systems that are interfaced with the WMS are tested together. This testing takes full-cycle business scenarios and validates that all systems update correctly.

6. Volume testing.

It is critical to validate that materials handling equipment, CPUs, and the wireless network hold up during peak conditions.

7. Business readiness testing.

This ensures that your organization is prepared to go live. During the test, the project team should focus on making sure end users are properly trained and knowledgeable about the system.

For additional information, e-mail Fricke at bryan.a.fricke@us.pwcglobal.com or call 267-330-2127.