Warehouse Planning Master Class

The warehouse function is an integral part of the total distribution system and creates a clearly identified break point between the supply and demand aspects of any business.

Historically, the physical nature of the operation has emphasised the degree of its labour intensiveness, calling for a high level of man management and control. In recent years however, improved forms of handling and storage equipment together with computerised control systems offer opportunities for enhanced effectiveness and efficiency. As with other elements of the distribution function (transport and inventory), the skill of warehouse management is in finding the optimum balance between cost and service.

Who should participate?
The Warehouse Planning Master Class is designed for people who have (or who aspire to) a tactical or strategic role in Warehousing. This course is particularly relevant to organisations looking to plan new operations or to review existing processes. Organisations considering engaging external consultants to plan the implementation of major warehouse changes, may find it more cost effective (and certainly more motivational) to provide their own people with the expertise to manage this implementation themselves.

What will they learn?
Participants will learn how to analyse the warehouse operations of a business and how to investigate and understand the future requirements from the operation. Next they will develop options to improve and change the operation that will enable the future requirements to be met. Finally they will identify what actions are needed to implement the improvements and changes.

How will they learn?
Participants will learn by using the People Development Group learning system, SCILworld - a simulated commercial environment containing a simulated company called SCIL plc.

During the Warehouse Planning Master Class, the participants take on the role of newly appointed Warehouse Managers in this fictitious company. Their specialist coach takes on the role of their manager, and sets the learners a challenging task around a major change to the management of the warehouse. The learner explains how they would complete the task within the simulated environment and completes the task in a series of reports, periodically submitted to their 'manager' (the coach), who is on hand should the learner require guidance.

Participants will be required to develop a detailed knowledge of:

1. The current processes and future needs of the simulated business.
2. How the planning and effective management of the warehouse can positively impact on company profitability and customer service.

Fees and learning methods
The Warehouse Planning Master Class is available as a 4-day face-to-face event, by distance learning or by a blend of the two. For an additional fee, face to face courses can be contexted to reflect a particular company's operation and culture. As the blend of learning will vary, depending on the needs and learning styles of the learners, there is no set fee. Please telephone +44 (0) 1530 276590 for details.

Face-to-face tuition
Classroom based, ideal for people who benefit from a participative inter-active approach.

Distance learning
A coach supported private study option where learners have the option to work where and when they wish.