A guide to WMS vendor implementation services

If you Google “WMS implementation services” you might be surprised that most of the top results are from third-party companies. That means your preferred WMS vendor may have some competition when it comes to implementing their WMS in your warehouse.

That’s a little daunting, especially coming on the heels of the even harder choice: which WMS to choose. So, here’s a detailed guide on the benefits and considerations of implementing a WMS directly through your vendor versus using third-party implementation services.

Understanding WMS implementation

Implementing a Warehouse Management System (WMS) is a critical decision for any business involved in logistics or supply chain management. Whether you are upgrading your system or deploying one for the first time, the process can significantly impact your business operations. The WMS you choose—and who you choose to implement it—can make or break its effectiveness in your warehouse.

In this guide, we will explore the pros and cons of using WMS vendors and third-party services for implementation, and provide you with the tools you need to make the best decision for your business.

Choosing a WMS vendor for implementation

Benefits of vendor-led implementation

The easiest place to start is by reaching out to the vendor who owns the WMS you like. These vendors are knowledgeable and have standard agreements for WMS implementation as well as ongoing support.

Large vendors often have various configuration tools that allow for faster integration and implementation—especially if you don’t require a lot of custom development. Because they know their system best, they may give you access to top-tier representatives, developers, and even beta features before they’re widely available.

If you're using other industry-standard software, such as an ERP system, your WMS vendor might have an established relationship with that platform’s provider. This can sometimes lead to discounts or seamless integration, which makes choosing the vendor a reliable option.

Key questions to ask your vendor

Before choosing to work directly with a WMS vendor, here are some key questions to ask:

• Do they have experience in your industry and with companies of your size?
• What level of support is included in the implementation service (on-site vs. remote)?
• How will their solution integrate with your existing software (e.g., ERP, CRM)?
• What are the customization options if your processes differ from the vendor's standard offering?

Exploring these questions will ensure you choose the best implementation option for your specific needs.

Considering third-party implementation partners

When should you choose a third-party?

While the vendor is often the first choice, third-party implementation services offer real value too. Sometimes, a third-party partner can offer more customization or flexibility in terms of pricing and service.

Third-party services often specialize in multiple WMS platforms, giving them unique expertise across various systems. In many cases, these partners work closely with vendors to assist in sales and even implementation, which means they are still well-versed in the WMS system you’ve chosen.

So, if you’ve found a WMS you like, take a moment to shop around.

Use this WMS implementation checklist to figure out which implementation services you require

How to evaluate a third-party partner

What you’ll want to review for each third-party service you consider is their history with that WMS and the support they provide. Consultants who specialize in a single WMS tend to have a relationship with that vendor, so they have both expertise in implementation and a direct customer service line to resolve issues.

You may end up reducing your costs if you need custom development. It’s worth checking into for any platform you’re considering, not just a WMS.

Things to consider when choosing WMS implementation services

Industry knowledge and expertise

The overall success of any WMS implementation often comes down to how well the implementation partner understands your business and industry. If you work in a highly specialized field, it may be worth selecting a partner who has experience in your specific industry. This is because the more foreign your business processes are to the implementation team, the longer it may take to prepare and integrate the system.

Sometimes a vendor may know your system better, especially with integrations they support as a standard. If you’re working on something custom or outside of your industry’s norm, ask for custom development pricing. We’ve seen cases where vendors were cheaper than third-party services and vice versa.

Customization and development requirements

When considering both vendors and third parties, think about how much customization your business requires. Some systems may work straight out of the box, while others might need significant customizations to handle your workflows.

Ask potential partners:

• How do they handle custom development requests?
• What is their pricing structure for additional features or modifications?
• Do they have experience with similar customization projects?

Support, training, and long-term guarantees

Training and support are another worthwhile consideration for your selection process. Ask about your preferred training method and how long information will be available. It’s also a promising idea to look at support contracts and see who gives you the best guarantee. No one can promise your system will work perfectly 100% of the time, but you may find a company that has a guaranteed response rate that you prefer.

Some questions to ask include:

• What is their average response time for support requests?
• Is there a dedicated support team available 24/7?
• What kind of ongoing training is available for your staff?

Conclusion: Choosing the right partner

The decision to choose a WMS vendor or third party for implementation is a significant one. Both options have their strengths, and your choice will ultimately depend on your business needs, budget, and customization requirements.

Be sure to conduct thorough research, ask the right questions, and don’t hesitate to seek out case studies or referrals from other businesses. Whether you choose the vendor or a third party, the key is finding a partner who understands your business and can provide the necessary support throughout the implementation process.