GROUND Co., Ltd. Unveils the Resource Allocator Module
GROUND Co., Ltd., a leader in the logistics technology sector in Japan, has officially rolled out a new module named the Resource Allocator (RA) within its Warehouse Execution System (GWES). This innovative feature is designed to support the real-time optimization of labor allocation within logistics facilities.
The Need for Real-Time Workforce Management
As the logistics industry faces challenges such as labor shortages caused by an aging population and increased demand driven by the growth of e-commerce, it becomes critical to optimize workforce management. Traditional practices often rely on subjective judgment and reactive responses, which can limit efficiency and accuracy in resource allocation. The Resource Allocator aims to address these issues by leveraging mathematical optimization and time-series forecasting to provide data-driven insights.
Features of the Resource Allocator
The RA module utilizes a multitude of factors, including workload, employee skills, shift schedules, and progress status. By recalculating thousands of workforce deployment patterns in real-time, the system can provide specific movement instructions to on-site managers. This shift away from individualized judgment helps to speed up decision-making processes and enhance accuracy in workforce management.
How It Works
Grounded in a robust foundation of historical performance data, the RA module employs several key functionalities:
- - Workload Forecasting (WF): Predicts workload with high precision by considering past performance, calendar information, and external factors like weather conditions.
- - Progress Analyzer (PA): Visualizes real-time progress of operations from inbound to outbound activities throughout the facility.
- - Worker Analyzer (WA): Centralizes data management regarding worker skills and availability.
The RA module integrates seamlessly with these features to automate reallocation processes, ultimately enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of labor deployment decisions.
Real-World Impact
Pilot tests of the Resource Allocator have shown promising results; the automation of labor reallocation has significantly reduced the administrative burden on managers. Specific achievements include:
- - A more than 10% increase in shipment capacities without hiring additional staff.
- - An approximate 15% improvement in task completion rates across various processes.
By utilizing RA as the central framework for managing operations between logistics bases, another company reported an average cost reduction in cross-base operations spanning 10-20%. This highlights the module's contribution to transforming labor-intensive operations.
Future Prospects
The Resource Allocator is envisioned as a core component of GROUND's next-generation logistics facility, termed ‘HyperWarehouse.’ This initiative aims to foster sustainable logistics operations by integrating human intelligence with advanced systems. GROUND remains committed to the continuous enhancement of GWES and the promotion of logistics digital transformation and workplace autonomy.
Overview of GWES and GROUND
The GWES (GROUND Warehouse Execution System) is a uniquely developed system by GROUND designed to visualize and optimize various logistics operations. It supports decision-making for logistics facility managers by providing access to a common data platform and AI-powered modules. Adopted by major logistics operators such as Mitsubishi Warehouse, Nippon Express, and CxCARGO, as well as manufacturing giants like Kao, GWES has commenced operations nationwide.
Founded in 2015, GROUND Co., Ltd. has dedicated itself to developing logistics solutions based on advanced technologies like AI and robotics, addressing the challenges of workforce shortages and enhancing operational efficiency for logistics businesses. With a vision of creating a sustainable future in logistics, GROUND is positioned at the forefront of the industry's transformation.