Automated testing is a term thrown around in warehouse management and supply chains. However, many supply chain executives and managers may not understand what automated testing truly is or how it benefits your company. So, let’s take a closer look at WMS automated testing and why it is critical to the successful launch of new, integrated systems.

What Is WMS Automated Testing?

Automated testing is a simple means of using technology and programmed scripts to verify all aspects of a given WMS are functioning correctly. If a problem arises, the scripts will return invalid responses or identify areas where the system did not function. This may include issues involving the system’s identification and processing of inbound shipment tracking and accounting or receiving, putaway and picking processes.

By its definition, automated testing should be re-usable, allowing the company to check existing system’s state of function at any time, and the system must be able to handle increases in operations.

For example, Veridian TestLead has the dynamic capacity in its automated scripts to handle changes in volume through easy-to-use, drag-and-drop interfaces.

Why Is Preemptive Testing Necessary?

If you launch a new system without thorough testing, you risk immediate bottlenecks, duplicity of orders and major accounting problems. Furthermore, the sheer volume of today’s warehouses mean manual testing of individual systems is insufficient to handle large-volume order management systems (OMS). When integrated with existing WMS, an OMS must seamlessly process information as part of automated testing too. But, why is WMS automated testing really needed beyond making sure things work correctly?

Automated testing allows managers with limited or little IT experience to check the system before it goes live and in the immediate periods after launch. In other words, automated testing provides continuing review of a system’s limitations and capacity without disrupting the flow of products. Meanwhile, automated testing can simulate thousands of actions within a WMS in seconds. Therefore, the amount of time needed to thoroughly test a system is decreased, allowing your company to get its products to market, and eventually to shipping, faster.

The Big Picture.

Automated testing is a win-win technology for modern companies and warehouses. Its features allow for fewer warehouse overhead costs and better profit margins across the company. This translates into savings for customers, less legwork and stress for employees and bonuses or wage increases for workers. Meanwhile, WMS automated testing systems, Veridian TestLead, can help managers ensure the successful integration and readiness of WMS and OMS systems simultaneously. Ultimately, automated testing is the next step in the evolution of making a warehouse as profitable and efficient as possible.