Q. What is slotting?
A. Slotting is the process of determining the most cost effective and ergonomically correct plan for storing inventory. Key considerations in finding an optimal slotting plan include understanding things like the dimensions and weight of the products you are storing, the storage technologies, labor costs, space costs, and how often and what quantities products are being picked/replenished.

Q. What is the difference between SlotLE and Slot3D?
A. The primary difference between the two products is in the facility manager. SlotLE has a 2D plan view drawing capability to represent specific storage systems. Slot3D incorporates a fully functional and Autodesk OEM certified version of AutoCAD embedded in the graphical interface. This capability allows for a vivid 3D representation of not only the storage systems in a layout but also color coded slotting results down to the shelf level. The drawings and scenario’s can be saved in industry standard .dwg format. Both SlotLE and Slot3D have the same powerful economic based algorithms engine that is now in its 5th release.

Q. Can I use SlotLE and Slot3D with my existing WMS?
A. Yes, even if your WMS is proprietary, SlotLE and Slot3D provide an open database SQL architecture that allows you to easily map data fields. In fact, an Excel spreadsheet is provided with the package that contains the import data structure.

Q. Can I run SlotLE or Slot3D over the network?
A. Yes, both SlotLE and Slot3D have network license models available that allow multiple and concurrent users (depending on the number of licenses) to use and collaborate with the product. Standalone desktop licenses are also available.

Q. Can I use SlotLE or Slot3D to determine capacity?
A. Yes. SlotLE and Slot3D both have a scenario manager that allows you to compare alternative slotting plans. Each plan presents key slotting results in terms of plain English and easy to understand dollars and cents. The program also provides detailed space utilization insight with each scenario and given set of constraints that you can easily save and compare to determine the best strategy for the operation.

Q. What are the advantages of having SlotLE available after our slotting has been completed?
A. IDS Engineering gives you the best value for your slotting dollars. With SlotLE, you have the tools needed to update your slotting at your convenience anytime your facility or order mix changes. This ensures that you can continue to enjoy the savings of slotting without continually having to pay someone to slot your warehouse for you.

Q. Can SlotLE help me experiment with new picking technologies before I make capital expenditures?
A. Absolutely! With SlotLE's Virtual Facility functionality you can create a digital copy of your facility, add new equipment, and then compare the slotting results to those of your existing facility. With the built in reporting provided by SlotLE you will be able to determine which types of picking technologies will work best for you without ever spending a dime on equipment.