Scale your warehouse to full control with production and Power Platform
Many companies begin their digital journey with Microsoft’s WMS Stand Alone – and for good reason. It’s fast, efficient, and cost-effective. But what happens when the business grows, and process complexity increases?
In this blog post, we explore how you can extend your WMS solution with modules for production management, quality control, and post-processing apps – creating a fully integrated and scalable logistics setup.
From warehouse management to production – and back again
Once the warehouse is digitalized, the next natural step is often production. Many companies need to:
- Create and manage production orders
- Receive and register finished goods in real time
- Plan production based on inventory levels and demand
With Microsoft’sSupply Chain Management platform, you can add the production module to your existing setup – without starting over. You reuse your infrastructure and scale at a pace that fits your business.
Quality control ensures accuracy and traceability
Another natural extension is quality management. If your goods need to be inspected before being released for sale or production, you can implement them with minimal adjustments:
- Inbound inspection
- Testing and release before goods are stocked
- Digital documentation and traceability
This is particularly relevant in industries such as pharmacy, food, and high-tech – but also B2B companies handling sensitive components, spare parts, or leased equipment.
When delivery doesn’t end at the gate – use Power Platform
The latest developments build on the idea of end-to-end digitalization. Imagine shipping goods to a customer – and the delivery is now:
- Registered with serial numbers
- Documented with photos, location, and contact person
- Instantly recorded in your system via a Power App
This is exactly the type of solution being developed for businesses where customer receipt is an integrated part of the process, such as leasing, services, repairs, and technical equipment. This Power App is built on Microsoft Power Platform and resembles the mobile picking app in both design and functionality, but is used by the customer or service technician at the delivery site.
Three levels – one platform
You can think of Microsoft’s WMS solution as a three-tier stepping stone:
- WMS Stand Alone
Fast, simple setup for warehouse management, picking, packing, and shipping. - Extended solution with production and quality control
Manage orders, goods, and quality within a single platform. - Advanced solution with Power Platform
Gain control over deliveries after they leave your warehouse – for example, customer-side registration.
The benefits? Here are a few:
Scalability: Build on your existing solution without data migration or system changes.
Future readiness: Leverage Power Platform and automation across the entire value chain.
High data quality: Real-time data throughout the process – from order to return.
Improved service: Provide customers with documentation and visibility at the point of delivery.
Ready for the next step?
Whether you already have a WMS solution or are considering getting started, it’s important to think ahead. How can warehouse management become a central part of your overall supply chain?
At AlfaPeople, we support both quick implementations and more advanced setups. Book a session with one of our experts and get a solution that grows with your business.
