Why Use Low Code Application Platforms for WMS?
Traditional Software Development Versus Low Code Application Platforms
What is the difference between the traditional software development methods used to develop warehouse management systems and Low Code Application Platforms? Let’s take a look.
Traditional software development depends on manual coding in a variety of programming languages. It requires extensive knowledge of programming frameworks, concepts, and libraries. Software developers usually have formalized training in software engineering or computer science. Because of this, software developers tend to be highly paid professionals, especially those with specialized programming language expertise. Software development time can be longer due to the complex nature of writing and testing the code.
In contrast, Low Code Application Platforms (LCAP) utilizes a visual approach to application development, one which minimizes hand-coding. LCAP relies on pre-built templates, drag-and-drop interfaces and other components for rapid development. Instead of highly experienced software developers, business users with little or no formal coding experience can use LCAP to tailor, make changes to, or develop applications. This enables seasoned warehouse team members to leverage their real-world operational warehousing experience to produce applications that are a better fit for their operation.
LCAPs are ideal for the quick deployment of applications, notably for workflows and business processes as they can enable customization. When used by professional software developers, use of LCAPs enables work to progress faster and more efficiently by automating repetitive tasks. LCAPs are especially useful for warehouse management solutions as they do not require highly skilled developers, who may be in short supply.
Low Code Application Platforms Make Integrations Easier
One of the most notable benefits of LCAPs is their ease of integration. Today, as warehouses often have numerous integrations such as to material handling solutions, systems such as TMS and ERP, marketplaces, shipping carriers and more, having a WMS that is fast and easy to integrate with is essential. Integrations are accessible to non-technical users and enable professional developers to customize and control integration to a greater extent than is possible in no-code platforms.
LCAPs come with pre-built connectors and APIs. This simplifies the process of integrating with other solutions and facilitates seamless communication between systems without requiring extensive custom coding. This can reduce the cost and time of integration.
By providing a visual integrated development environment (IDE), the process of integration is simplified for non-technical developers as well as for professional developers, streamlining the connection of various applications and services. The use of drag-and-drop interfaces enables users to visually map out integrations and workflows without the need to write code. Many LCAPs provide pre-built templates for common integration scenarios. These can be customized as needed to save time, cost, and labor.
Another LCAP tool is code templates. These can be used as a starting point when working on more complex integrations so that development time is minimized. One of the most useful facets of LCAP integrations is their agility. This enables teams to rapidly test software use cases, experiment with operational workflows, and analyze new data sources.
High Volume Data? Low Code Application Platforms Can Handle It
LCAPs are well suited for warehouse management systems that handle large volumes of data, requiring robust data analysis as they are flexible, adaptable, and scalable. As the volume of data increases, LCAPs are capable of scaling up the WMS to meet the burdens of increased demand without significant downtime or rework.
LCAPs are ideal for supporting mobile application development and readily facilitate on-the-go access to inventory data, highly beneficial for large scale operations such as e-commerce fulfillment. By automating various warehouse processes, LCAPs can reduce the manual effort of managing large amounts of data, making this effort much more cost-effective.
LCAP Streamlines Inventory Management
LCAP-based warehouse management systems can facilitate the development of automated replenishment systems which trigger reorders based on predefined rules. This can include minimum stock levels, lead times, and demand forecasts. Communication with suppliers can be automated for replenishment orders. This can eliminate manual intervention while maintaining optimal inventory levels
Need to optimize inventory? LCAPs can be used to develop applications to dynamically allocate inventory across multiple locations. This can help to meet demand efficiently, reducing the need for manual intervention.
LCAPs can create applications to schedule and track cycle counts as well as identify and resolve discrepancies between physical counts and system records. In addition, custom applications can be built to conduct and track regular inventory audits to ensure compliance and data accuracy.