Use of IT within Distribution Management

Stock Control systems were the first uses for computers and IT within Warehousing and Distribution. Many of these soon broke away from their roots in finance and accounts packages and developed into more sophisticated Warehouse Management Systems. Many other applications have followed. Today IT is a critical part of the whole supply chain, from its use in planning demand right up to the delivery of goods to the customer’s doorstep.
There are two aspects to IT in warehousing and distribution, or in any other area for that matter. These are the hardware, perhaps better described as the technology, and the software. They are both important and when choosing IT attention must be paid to both element.