Frequently Asked Questions

 

What are the system requirements for Datapel WMS?


The following existing server configurations can be used: 

Windows 2000 Pro, or 
Windows XP Pro
Limit of 1 User

Microsoft SBS 2003 
Standard Edition    
Limit of 5 Users via Remote Desktop Connection (RDC). 
Uses Microsoft Access

Microsoft SBS 2003 
Premium Edition
Limit of 20 Users via RDC, up to 4 LAN users. 
Requires SQL Server 

Windows Server 2003 
Standard Edition
Limit of 5 Users via Windows Terminal Services.
 Uses Microsoft Access

Windows Server 2003 
Enterprise Edition
Limit of 20 Users via Windows Terminal Services.
 Requires SQL Server

Windows Small Business Server 2008 SP2 Standard Edition
Limit of 20 Users via Windows Terminal Services.
 Requires SQL Server

Windows Small Business Server 2008 SP2 Premium Edition
Limit of 20 Users via Windows Terminal Services.
 Requires SQL Server

Datapel recommends Windows Server 2008 Standard SP2 32-bit or 64-bit

For more information about server configurations, please see Datapel Wiki - WMS System Requirements


Does Datapel WMS integrate data with MYOB accounting systems?


The Datapel WMS range of products operate with 2-way integration to your MYOB accounting software.

In order to access inventory, sales, and user information the WMS must synchronise with MYOB. Synchronisation takes between 1-2 minutes depending on your company file size. Synchronisation can be configured to occur daily at a specified time.

For a stand-alone stock control system, the Datapel Inventory Controller XE is designed to operate stand-alone without the need for additional software.

 


What are the features of WMS and what should I get started with?


Datapel provides a range of stock control systems depending on the size and requirements of your business. You can introduce basic stock control workflows with Inventory Controller, or consider comprehensive order fulfilment and distribution processes with WMS Professional Edition, or manage inventory across both production and sales departments of your business with WMS Enterprise Edition.

See Products for our full spectrum of products. You are likely to find one from the Datapel range that is designed specifically for your business.


What are the additional WMS module options ?


There are several module options you can consider:

  • Special Pricing: Allows you to create either fixed price or % discount offers for particular sale items per customer with optional time period limits. This option is particularly beneficial for wholesales with big account customers.
  • Integrated Commission: For each salesperson commission can be calculated based on Total Sale, Gross Profit, or fixed fee per sale.
  • Quality Flags: For any item a flag can be set to warn both sales and warehouse manager of any critical information or to place an immediate halt on item sales/picking.
  • Attachments: Centralise product datasheets, purchase confirmations, or international shipping dockets within the Datapel WMS. Drag-n-Drop emails into Sales Orders or Quotes so all your business dealings are easily traceable.
  • User Licenses: enables multi-user concurrent access to WMS only. In the case of WMS Profesional Edition, three (3) user licenses are provided with the product. With WMS Enterprise five (5) user licenses are provided. For unlimited access across all sites in a business, consider the Site License option.

Datapel also provides barcoding solutions as part of its WMS stock control solutions. If you are considering using barcodes to further improve efficiency in the warehouse, speak to Datapel about incorporating barcoding with WMS. By default WMS has full support for barcoding, which makes adding barcode devices to your WMS very easy indeed.

Consider these barcoding options:

  • Barcode printers
  • Barcode scanner devices (tethered or wireless)
  • Barcode PDA terminals (with full mobility and wi-fi connectivity).
  • Tablet devices

 


Can WMS be customised to suit my specific requirements?


We are always interested in improvements that save you time, deliver valuable business information, and help you organise your business inventory. If you have a specific need for a unique workflow, import / export business information (such as EDI) or require additional reports, we can customise WMS to your specifications before we implement, so the system is ready to work for you from the get-go.

Datapel WMS is also designed in a modular way which is possible to manage our client's unique requirements without the excessive development and maintenance risk that typically accompany custom-developed systems.


Can I add more barcode scanning to the WMS system?


Yes, you can implement barcoding to an existing Datapel WMS because it already supports barcode scanning workflows, such as scan-receive, scan-pick, scan stock take and more.

If you have barcode requirements ask our Datapel staff for more assistance or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .


What does a WMS package include?


The Datapel Warehouse Management System is offered as a software license upon purchase.

Installation of Datapel WMS also requires a 2-stage implementation process:

  1. Stage 1 - Preimplementation - includes a full requirements analysis, analysis report and review
  2. Stage 2 - Installation & Training - onsite service to install and configure Datapel WMS and required module options, and training is provided to key operational staff.

Once Datapel WMS live, as part of the Datapel Enhancement and Support Services, you receive ongoing phone and email support.


Does the WMS come with documentation?


The Datapel WMS comes with online documentation on the Datapel Knowledge Base.


How can I purchase the Datapel Warehouse Management System?


Please contact the Datapel sales team This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or phone 1300 137 082.

A Datapel Sales representative will discuss your requirements at length before preparing a proposal with precise details on the implementation process, post-implementation services and module options required as part of Datapel WMS.

Depending on your location we may work with your existing MYOB Certified Consultant or have a Datapel Partner assist in the implementation of WMS for you.

Implementation is provided directly by Datapel or by a Datapel Partner in your area.


Do you provide updates?


As part of your annual support and maintenance fees, Datapel provides two types of updates to all WMS products - a “compatibility update” and a “new product upgrade”.

The “compatibility update” is provided in line with new MYOB software releases.

The “new product update” contains new product features designed to make running your inventory control processes even more efficient.


Is training mandatory?


For all Datapel products, we provide comprehensive manuals and online resources (see Datapel Knowledge Base) to help users complete specific workflows step-by-step. As part of our Support and Maintenance services, you also have access to our support staff for specific questions on how to use WMS.

 

For an implementation of Datapel Warehouse Management System (WMS) we strongly recommend that you include Datapel training services as part of the implementation process. This ensures effective use of its specialised workflow and reporting features, and a smooth transition for you and your staff.

 


Is upgrading mandatory?


Customers are required to upgrade at least once every two (2) years. Compatibility upgrades are only provided for the previous years release, so although we would recommend upgrading every year, it is not compulsory. If you do not upgrade your MYOB accounting software you will not have to upgrade your WMS software.


Will the WMS help to track inventory in manufacturing processes?


Yes, WMS Enterprise Edition allows you to specify Bill-Of-Materials to track all components used in an Assembly back to the original purchase order. Create a build with a batch tracking number, and once production is complete, WMS automatically adjusts the component and finished inventory accordingly.


Can WMS organise the warehouse for a wholesale/distribution business?


Absolutely. With Datapel WMS you can assign items to be put-away in bins and/or locations. For example, name a bin “Isle-5-Shelf-2”.

  • As stock is received store people will be directed to this bin for stock placement.
  • When an item is sold they will be directed to the exact location.
  • No more misplaced stock or wasted time in stock searching.
  • Tip: to assist Sales, create a CLEARANCE bin. Allowing you to move older stock or end-of-life stock to the front of the fulfilment queue. Other bin uses include SAMPLES, RETURNS, and QUARANTINE.

What does the monthly Support and Maintenance Fee provide?


With a subscription to Datapel Support and Maintenance services you have access to remote, phone and email support for your Datapel product.

As part of the subscription, we provide annual MYOB “compatibility upgrade” and regular New Feature releases for our range of stock control systems.

 


What happens to Datapel WMS when MYOB updates its Accounting systems?


Datapel provides regular updates to all products in the Datapel WMS range. Every year MYOB releases a new update, and requires add-on systems like Datapel WMS to update its connectivity to the MYOB accounting system. Typically, Datapel releases a compatibility update before your new version of MYOB upgrade becomes available. This occurs prior to June 30th of each year.

We recommend you complete all upgrades before the start of the new financial year, and begin using your new MYOB software and updated WMS as of 1st July.


Is Datapel WMS right for my business?


If you use MYOB and your business has a requirement to:

  1. Track stock serial, batch or expiry date information
  2. Track stock across multiple bins or locations
  3. Attach stock associated digital documents or images.
  4. Specific allocation of stock to sales orders,
  5. Manage order fulfilment and despatch processes
  6. Multiple user restricted access

Then Datapel Warehouse Management System (WMS) can help.

Give us a call on 1300 137 082 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it to discuss your requirements, and we'll provide all the information you need to make an informed decision on how to improve stock control processes for your business.

In most cases we can arrange an appointment on your premises to demonstrate first hand the great features and benefits of the Datapel WMS.


How does Datapel WMS work to create cost savings and promote growth?


Significant efficiency improvements in business administration and the warehouse can be expected through implementation of Datapel Warehouse Management System (WMS). These include:

  • Improved search times
  • Improved data and inventory reporting
  • Lower inventory costs and stock handling errors
  • Improve productivity and reduce labour costs.

Using a manual paper-based stock management process, searching for stock can take up to 20% of a storeman's time. WMS guided picks and flexible search functionality can dramatically reduce search times. Additional efficiencies can be achieved by reducing errors with guided picks, put-aways and integrating barcode labelling. The Datapel WMS does the thinking for you, so both quality and accuracy increase while your labour costs drop.



Datapel Knowledge Base

knowledgebase
For technical resources, visit the Datapel Knowledge Base.

Remote Support Services

support
For WMS clients only. Click to enable Remote Access and access support services.