Today, we will look at some key considerations related to Supply Chain Software Testing. Note that these are prescribed based on the studies and research done in the Supply Chain industry during the peak Covid-19 pandemic period, when the demand for efficiency and effectiveness on the Supply Chain operations on the various verticals like e-commerce and retail was huge and taking a toll on the respective companies. So, if these metrics were indicators of peak-time efficiency, then rest assured that they would serve well as Key Performance Indicators during normal operating conditions.
With that said, let’s dive straight into the top metrics that I consider are important for the Software Under Test in the Warehouse Management and Distribution Center Management space:
- Slot allocation efficiency
Abilities of the software to efficiently and effectively allocate the slots for incoming items is very important. As the SKUs keep increasing because of the demand, the efficiency of the warehouse space utilization might go down, which will be detrimental in the processing, resulting in overload at the entry, and eventual degradation of the utilization. - Cross-docking efficiency
Is the software doing a great job in decision-making about cross-docking taking into consideration the various factors, is very important. Errors in processing could lead to confusion and customer dissatisfaction, so it is important to thoroughly test this feature. - Robotics Software Testing
Automated lift-trucks, Pallets handling, automated put-aways at higher locations, avoid unnecessary product touches are some of the key areas that robots contribute. The software related to these need to be thoroughly tested to make sure that these are working properly.
Those are the top ones, as far as software is concerned. Attention to detail in resource utilization and efficiency will lead to higher accuracy and velocity, and Software Testing plays a key role in these areas in making sure that the software are performing according to the expectations.
If you would like to have a detailed discussion about how Software Testing can help you better your Software performance in Logistics & Supply Chain domain, please feel free to contact me. I would be glad to get in touch with you!