Task Category Allocation Config

This page enables administrators to define how pick tasks are allocated based on different operational scenarios.

Overview

The Task Category Allocation Configuration allows administrators to select an allocation strategy from a predefined list and link it to a specific pick task category. During periods when many bins are nearly empty, a “deplen” strategy may be used to prioritise bins with the least stock. Conversely, during high volume periods, a strategy that minimises bin collisions can help reduce delays caused by multiple ports waiting on the same bin.

When a pick task is processed, the system checks its category, retrieves the associated strategy, and applies it to determine how the task should be allocated.

Allocation Strategies

Current Available Strategies

Deplen (Least Available Quantity)

• Purpose: Prioritises bins with the lowest stock levels
• Use Case: Helps deplete inventory across multiple bins during low-volume periods
• Benefits: Reduces dead stock and improves inventory turnover
• Ideal For: Inventory management and stock rotation objectives

Fewer Parent Bins (Fewest Presentations)

• Purpose: Minimises the number of bins used per task
• Use Case: Speeds up picking by reducing bin presentations
• Benefits: Increases picking efficiency without considering bin contention
• Ideal For: High-throughput operations with minimal bin conflicts

Fewer Sub Bins

• Purpose: Minimises the number of bin compartments used per task
• Use Case: Speeds up picking by focusing on fewer compartments
• Benefits: Reduces pick complexity and improves task completion times
• Ideal For: Operations prioritising speed over bin utilisation optimisation

Configuration Process

Strategy Assignment

1. Navigate to WMS Admin > General Autostore Management > Task Category Allocation Config
2. Select the pick task category to configure
3. Choose the appropriate allocation strategy from the available options
4. Link the strategy to the category
5. Save the configuration
6. Monitor performance and adjust as needed

Strategy Selection Guidelines

For Low-Volume Periods

• Use Deplen Strategy: Focus on inventory depletion and stock rotation
• Benefits: Maintains healthy inventory levels and reduces waste
• Considerations: May result in more bin presentations but improves inventory management

For High-Volume Periods

• Use Fewer Parent Bins or Fewer Sub Bins: Minimise bin handling and contention
• Benefits: Reduces delays caused by multiple ports waiting for the same bin
• Considerations: May not optimise inventory depletion but improves throughput

For Mixed Operations

• Strategy Combination: Different categories can use different strategies
• Benefits: Tailored approach based on operational requirements
• Considerations: Requires careful monitoring to ensure optimal performance

Integration with Pick Categories

Category-Strategy Linking

Each pick task category can be assigned a specific allocation strategy:

• Pick to Pack: May use Fewer Parent Bins for efficiency
• Pick to Container: Could use Deplen for inventory management
• Premium Orders: Might use Fewer Sub Bins for speed
• Batch Operations: Could use strategies based on volume and urgency

Dynamic Strategy Application

The system automatically applies the configured strategy when:

• Pick tasks are created and categorised
• Task allocation decisions are made
• Bin selection algorithms are executed
• Resource optimisation is performed

Operational Impact

Performance Considerations

Deplen Strategy Impact

• Inventory: Improves stock rotation and reduces dead inventory
• Efficiency: May increase bin presentations but optimises long-term inventory health
• Resources: Distributes workload across more storage locations

Efficiency Strategy Impact (Fewer Bins)

• Speed: Faster task completion through reduced bin handling
• Contention: Minimises conflicts between ports accessing the same bins
• Throughput: Higher pick rates during peak periods

Monitoring and Optimisation

• Track performance metrics for each strategy
• Monitor bin utilisation patterns
• Analyse pick completion times
• Assess inventory turnover rates
• Adjust strategy assignments based on operational data

Best Practices

Strategy Selection

• Analyse Operational Patterns: Understand your facility’s peak and low-volume periods
• Monitor Inventory Health: Use deplen strategies when inventory rotation is critical
• Consider Port Utilisation: Use efficiency strategies when port contention is high
• Regular Review: Periodically assess strategy effectiveness and adjust as needed

Configuration Management

• Document Strategy Decisions: Record why specific strategies were chosen
• Test Strategy Changes: Implement changes during low-impact periods
• Monitor Performance Impact: Track metrics before and after strategy changes
• Coordinate with Operations: Ensure strategy changes align with operational goals

Troubleshooting

Common Issues

• Poor Pick Performance: Review strategy alignment with current operational conditions
• High Bin Contention: Consider switching to efficiency-focused strategies
• Inventory Stagnation: Implement deplen strategies for better stock rotation
• Resource Imbalances: Adjust strategy assignments to distribute workload effectively

Performance Optimisation

• Regular Strategy Review: Assess effectiveness based on operational data
• Seasonal Adjustments: Modify strategies based on volume patterns
• Category-Specific Tuning: Fine-tune strategy assignments for different pick types
• Feedback Integration: Use operational feedback to improve strategy selection