Order management systems (OMSs) give warehouse and distribution center managers the tools and information they need to enhance product flows and keep customers happy. Since customer happiness relies on having extensive shopping options, an omnichannel shopping experience, modern order management system applications are designed to enhance omnichannel experiences in several key ways.

SaaS Order Management System Applications Enable Scalability.

One of the newest means of deploying order managemnet system applications is through cloud-based technology. Software-as-a-service(SaaS) OMS systems have the benefits of traditional, in-house OMS systems without the hiccups and problems associated with long-term upgrades and security, reports Steve Bielawski of Total Retail. More importantly, SaaS use models in OMS systems promote long-term scalability in warehouses of all sizes. Therefore, companies can invest in one system and rest assured future upgrades and continued support will continue to enhance the omnichannel shopping experience.

OMS Systems Create a Better Omnichannel Supply Chains.

Integrating OMS systems with existing systems and new technology creates omnichannel sales strategies. An effective OMS relies on information from other parts of the warehouse, vendors and consumers to encourage consumer purchases through all channels. In the interim, the system promotes inventory accuracy and visibility, optimizing product flow and delivering the service and products customers want.

Omnichannel Order Management System Applications Improve Inventory Tracking.

Once a customer places an order, he or she wants to know everything about it. This means answering product-specific and order-specific questions. For example, where is the item originating, what channel was used, and how soon will the order arrive. Omnichannel order management system applications increase visibility into order tracking before, during and after ordering. In addition, the same systems can be used to increase order tracking if shipped back to the distribution center or manufacturer.

Advanced Applications Promote “Waveless” Picking.

Another fundamental aspect of omnichannel sales is “waveless” picking. Traditional order pick tickets were released in waves, or batches when a set number of orders come in. Unfortunately, this means workers would have continuous fluctuations in lulls and peaks. As a result, fatigue and backorders were common.

However, waveless picking, also known as order streaming, is a picking practice that focuses on the continuous release of orders throughout the day to ensure continuous work and maximum fill rates. Automated OMS applications are integral to implementing and maintaining waveless picking strategies, explains Mike O-Brien of Multi-Channel Merchant. 

New Systems Mitigate Market Risks, Optimizing the Global Omnichannel Supply Chain.

Another key benefit of OMS applications involves risk management. Risks abound in retail. The slightest change in politics or trade deals could result in dramatic changes to the costs of doing business abroad. However, OMS applications can help mitigate these risks by isolating inefficiencies to drive overall costs down. As a result, a company may be able to use financial resources for duties, tariffs or other costs of operating or shipping abroad.

What Does It Mean to You?

OMS System applications are the future of the omnichannel supply chain. Rather than avoiding this trend, your company needs to embrace modern applications and optimize your supply chains. By understanding the ways OMS system applications promote an omnichannel sales strategy, you can gain executive-level support and help your business grow in an ever-growing digital marketplace.