Understanding digital twins: Connecting the virtual and physical

A digital twin is a real-time virtual representation of a physical asset, system or process that exists in the real world. It can take multiple forms: a traditional 3D CAD representation, a 2D drawing or an advanced data dashboard. However a digital twin only functions to its full potential if it is maintained with up-to-date digital data, reflecting the changes happening physically, allowing retrospective analysis.

In the case of a warehouse, the movement of goods, from inbound to outbound, could be recorded digitally allowing operational teams to detect issues ahead of time, reducing loss of goods and improving efficiencies and profits.

The power of real-time insights

Through real-time data and replication of the physical environment, customers can visualise processes, layouts and workflows and act quickly and proactively, improving decision-making and responsiveness, reducing downtime and boosting order fulfilment. Real-time data’s benefits eventually lead to higher customer satisfaction.

Real-time data in general offers valuable business intelligence that supports organisations optimising their warehouse operations and improving overall supply chain performance.

Identifying and navigating challenges

For 'Continuous Improvement' teams in the warehousing industry, real-time visibility has often been a challenge. A digital twin bridges this gap by providing instant insights into operations, and identifying bottlenecks and inefficiencies. By actively monitoring resources, managers can adapt and optimise processes. A prime example being Dexory's autonomous robot at Menzies Aviation's warehouse. This technology conducts nightly audits, offering accurate inventory checks and generating exception reports, a testament to the power of real-time data.

Automating inventory management: From loss prevention to efficiency

69% of companies are looking to improve their inventory control, as a more specific action to lower costs (Logistics Management, 2021). Real-time insights play a crucial role in this endeavour. The automation of processes prevents the loss of goods, enables effective stock management, and streamlines supply chain operations. Dexory's platform automates inventory management, freeing up human resources from manual tasks, and allowing them to focus on complex, value-adding tasks.

Boosting order fulfilment: Meeting customer expectations

The logistics industry has been transitioning to B2C models where customer expectations are same-day deliveries (Deloitte, 2019). With constant real-time visibility over the inside of the warehouse stock is being processed in record times.

Mistakes that could cause delay, such as accepting an order with no stock to fulfil it, or even wrongfully denying an order assuming there is no stock to fulfil it, are avoided.

Predicting and forecasting

Predictive analytics improves forecasting and drives more intelligent decision-making. With advanced analytics, businesses can accurately forecast demand, plan inventory locations, determine stock demand value and reduce risks enhance planning and purchasing.

On top of that, the technology allows the identification of equipment issues before they lead to downtime, minimising disruption and maximising operational uptime.

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Success stories

• Menzies Aviation has used our platform at its Heathrow cargo facility to automate bond checks, leading to more efficient and compliant operations.
• Maersk uses our technology to empower staff to focus on key operations, using space wisely and more profitably, whilst attracting and retaining employees.
• Denso UK prioritises real-time inventory checks to ensure reliable stock control so the production line is not impacted.

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Conclusion: Leveraging real-time insights for success

The DexoryView platform represents a new era in warehousing operations. Its ease of implementation, scalability, and adaptability make it a versatile solution for businesses of all sizes. By harnessing the power of real-time data and digital twins, companies can revolutionise their supply chain operations, improve efficiency, and enhance customer satisfaction. In a landscape where every advantage counts, DexoryView provides the edge needed to thrive.

Businesses can respond quickly and efficiently to operational challenges across all levels of operations on a daily basis, as well as reducing costs (by boosting demand forecasting, maintaining healthy inventory level, eliminating manual errors) while improving efficiency.

Find out how data-led intelligence and digital twins are driving innovation in warehouses in our latest guide: https://bit.ly/3PzLkrt