The impact of WMS implementation on work productivity. The case of three distribution warehouses

Solutions of Industry 4.0 cover more and more areas of the economy. In logistics, digitization applies to each of the functional areas. Introducing IT solutions in logistics leads to an increase in the reliability of communication, faster stock rotation, and a higher level of service. It enables higher work efficiency and overall productivity. Changes in work productivity in three warehouses as a result of the implementation of a WMS class system and accompanying necessary changes in the equipment and organiza tion of warehouse space was analysed in this work. The source of data for the analysis was the measurement of labour productivity for 12 months: three months before the implementation of the WMS and nine after its implementation. Work productivity after the implementation of the WMS increased by 40% compared to the level before it. The period of introducing WMS and obtaining an increase in personnel productivity was at least six months. Labour productivity in the analysed period increased in each month of the analysis. Only one of the three warehouses showed stabilization of workforce productivity at a level 50% higher than before the implementation. The research results confirm that the presence of WMS in the warehouse makes it possible to reach a significant increase in work productivity in warehouses.