Application of Modern Warehouse Technology in the Slovenian Automotive Industry

Abstract

The objective of this paper is to demonstrate the usefulness and reliability of modern warehouse technology for suppliers in the automotive industry and to identify the potential causes preventing it from being used more in practice. In recent years, we have seen great progress made in the development of modern warehouse solutions, as well as a dramatic rise in research on the issues related to the introduction of modern technology and interaction between operators and automation. However, a look at some of the existing studies on the usefulness of the use of modern technology reveals that their conclusions are often contradictory. The results of statistical analysis of Slovenian companies that operate as suppliers in the international automotive industry show that modern warehousing technology is reliable and safe to use, but more than 60% of companies fail to take advantage of its benefits. These companies are also using basic warehouse technology, despite the fact that such technology does not ensure a sense of safety in the warehouse. In the medium term, this could put them at a disadvantage against competitors in the demanding sector of the automotive industry. The results of the study provide additional starting points for understanding human use of modern warehouse technology, which can lead to improvements in how warehouse systems are designed, more effective employee training methods and a reasonable and balanced policy for the automation of the warehousing processes.

Exploring the Impact of Technology 4.0 Driven Practice on Warehousing Performance: A Hybrid Approach

“…It helps organizations manage the challenge related to managing delivery deadlines [13] according to significant fluctuation in customer order volume [14] and product returns. As a result, organizations tend to gain competitive advantage and customer satisfaction [15] and comply with their need to manage their resources.…”

Innovative Solutions and Challenges for the Improvement of Storage Processes

“…Škerlič et al [20] Warehousing is one of the activities that require many systems to ensure security and the quality of work processes, as errors can occur during warehousing operations.…”

“…Warehousing is a dynamic process that is also affected by ever-changing factors outside the company, e.g., relocation of production to countries with cheaper labor and various technological and organizational requirements of customers [20,21]. Warehousing is also a purposeful activity in the warehouse, which ensures the necessary flow of production processes and consumption; due to their technical nature, warehouses are complex facilities that allow this activity to be carried out [15].…”

“…The collector accepts the products to order, and the remaining units are moved to their storage location [34]. Škerlič and Muha [20,21] point out that order collection is the most time-consuming process of internal logistics, accounting for more than 50 percent of total storage costs. According to Chiang et al [24], Dauod et al [45], and Dieu Ho et al [25], order collection accounts account for 55 percent of the total cost of warehousing, which shows the role of order picking in warehousing.…”

Warehouse Operations: An Examination of Traditional and Automated Approaches in Supply Chain Management

“…This shift in perspective is motivated by several factors, such as heightened market volatility, capacity limitations, evolving regulations, substantial shifts in consumer demographics and purchasing behavior, and stricter requirements imposed by customers and suppliers [11]. With the rapid advancements in technology, warehouses possess the capacity to foster competitive differentiation and facilitate profitable growth for enterprises [12]. A comprehensive review of the literature on smart warehouse operations management was carried out by Zhen and Li [13].…”