FortnaDCoptimizers™ Take the Science of Distribution to New Levels

Sept. 11, 2015 - PRLog -- READING, PA – Fortna, the distribution experts^®, announces the FortnaDCoptimizers™, a set of multi-dimensional models of key distribution design decisions that quickly identify the best alternative among a continuum of choices.  Fortna clients have complex distribution operations that require custom solutions for their unique product mix, order profiles, and service requirements.  Designing the optimal distribution centers for these companies requires answering hundreds of interconnected and cascading questions.   The FortnaDCoptimizers™ are models that accelerate and automate the work of analyzing and designing these custom operations so that they maximize the return on investment.  They go beyond single-dimension “rules of thumb” guidelines and currently include:

Cross-Dock Strategies Optimizer™ – Analyzes customer data and operational practices to identify products that could flow through the distribution center without needing to be received, put away, picked and repacked.  Uses multi-dimensional models to project the impact on space and labor and the associated savings.

Extra-Touch Fulfillment Engine Optimizer™ – Evaluates picking and downstream extra-touch methodologies to optimize system design.  Considers the interrelationships between workers to identify tipping points where traditional systems “break.”

Pick Module Configuration Optimizer™ – Balances productivity and investment for the optimized pick module with the best business case.  Based on thousands of client profiles and tailored by the relevant cost of workers through multi-dimensional mathematical models.

Unit Sortation Engineering Optimizer™ – Configures the unit sorter so that it meets throughput requirements with the smallest investment in capital and labor costs.  Uses mathematical models that capture worker interaction and the utilization of sorter trays in virtual configurations.

A Fortna client saved $1.3M when Fortna used its Pick Module Configuration Optimizer^TM model to estimate the productivity, cost and labor impacts of implementing one, two, or three pick modules in a their new distribution center.  The client was planning to invest in three pick modules, but the optimizer data showed that two pick modules were sufficient and the optimal solution for its requirements.

“The FortnaDCoptimizers™ are models that represent the next chapter in Fortna’s quest to bring the benefits of distribution science to our clients,” said Russ Meller, vice president of research and development at Fortna.  “These optimizers allow us to quickly hone in on the ‘sweet spot’ of the solution so we can use our extensive experience to fine-tune the attributes that a mathematical model cannot consider.”

For more information, contact info@fortna.com.

About Fortna Inc.

For over 60 years, Fortna has partnered with the world’s top brands – companies like ASICS, O’Reilly Auto Parts and MSC Industrial – helping them improve their distribution operations and transform their businesses. Companies with complex distribution operations trust Fortna to help them meet customer promises and competitive challenges profitably. We are a professional services firm built on a promise – we develop a solid business case for change and hold ourselves accountable to those results. Our expertise spans supply chain strategy, distribution center operations, material handling, supply chain systems, organizational excellence, and warehouse control software.