Recently I ran across some extremely interesting data analysis about software project estimates versus actuals, courtesy Erik Bernhardsson (hereafter, “EB”). It provides context about how much risk is in software projects, and by implication, how to identify and manage that risk. Since PL Programs project consultants structure and manage supply-chain projects like fulfillment centers, distribution … Read more
If you think a big projects executed well cost a lot of money, just wait until you have one that goes poorly. The implication is that that good project management increases project value by removing risk to those initial cash flows. Here is how we think about the sources of value of good project management … Read more
Warehouse projects come in a range of sizes. There are small brownfield startups. There are large, million-plus square foot automated distribution and fulfillment centers. Some are done by companies for themselves. Some are done by third-party logistics companies for their customers. Some are done to support businesses shipping out a handful of SKUs, others have … Read more
Just as a software program requires a design spec or user stories, and a building needs design drawings, a warehouse distribution or fulfillment operation needs a specification. It is documentation of the entire operation. Experience shows that it is critical to project success and operational continuity. We think of it as a combination of the … Read more
There’s a connection between company culture and its engineering output. That connection can be summed up in one word: design. The most obvious example of this may be Apple. Apple produces beautifully engineered products because of its design-centric culture, famously influenced by Steve Jobs’s calligraphic experiences and by Jony Ive’s genius with product. In this … Read more
Congratulations! You’ve looked at the numbers and company strategy and the payback is there. You’ve decided that you need a new warehouse, distribution center, or fulfillment center. You’re planning on using a consultant, design firm, integrator, 3PL, or other partner to implement your vision. But there are many challenges and risks in designing a new … Read more
Companies starting warehousing & distribution sites have an important decision to make. It’s about resourcing. Who will implement the site? Despite drawbacks, there’s a strong case for engaging external consultants to help your distribution and warehousing projects succeed. Here’s why: Startup Resource Planning Many factors go into planning startup team resourcing. First is the total … Read more
“Are we on schedule?” Schedules are a critical element of warehouse projects. They are important in both planning and project communication. Using scheduling best practices will help you plan and communicate effectively throughout the project. Here are some things to keep in mind as you build (or receive!) schedules. Schedules: Who they are for and … Read more
Project schedules are always a big focus in project execution. There’s so much time, money, and relationships tied to them, especially in big warehouse projects which often include construction, equipment, and software. Nobody likes delays, but there’s a lot ‘under the hood’ of a schedule that can make it go sideways. People, environment, other projects, … Read more
Warehouse design is critical to running efficient operations. But warehouse design is a complex problem with many inputs and just as many, if not more, possible solutions. And it has to be done for every warehouse startup. It’s important to have a philosophically and analytically sound approach to developing the solution, because you’ll spend huge … Read more