Eliminate Manual Errors in Business Central with Barcode-Driven WMS
Many warehouses still rely on manual processes such as spreadsheets, handwritten notes, or verbal communication to manage inventory. These methods often lead to delays, inaccuracies, and unnecessary rework. The free WMS Express app from Insight Works improves warehouse accuracy and boosts efficiency with mobile device and barcode integration, giving teams real-time visibility and control directly within Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central.
If your warehouse operation faces recurring issues with accuracy, speed, or consistency, here are five signs that a barcode-driven warehouse management system is the right next step. Each section explains how WMS Express, a free app built specifically for Business Central, provides a practical solution.
1. Receiving Processes Include Too Many Errors
When warehouse staff receive items using printed paperwork, it is easy to miscount items, assign them to the wrong bins, or delay updates to Business Central. These minor issues often result in bigger inventory discrepancies over time.
WMS Express provides a step-by-step barcode-based receiving process. Staff use handheld devices to scan the purchase order, item, and bin. The app prompts the user to enter quantity, unit of measure, and tracking details such as lot or serial numbers when required.
After confirming the details, the system updates Business Central automatically.
2. Order Picking and Shipping Takes Longer Than It Should
Printed pick lists and verbal instructions often lead to shipping errors and slow order processing. Mistakes at this stage can cause delays, returns, or dissatisfied customers.
WMS Express improves speed and accuracy by guiding staff through the picking and shipping process. Users select a sales or transfer order, then scan each item to confirm its accuracy. The handheld device connects directly to Business Central, ensuring real-time validation and reducing the chance of picking the wrong item.
3. Employees Rely on Memory Instead of Rules
In a manual system, it is challenging to enforce consistency. Different team members may follow different steps, skip required fields, or enter data differently depending on the situation.
With WMS Express, warehouse managers and administrators define scan behaviors directly in Business Central. These settings determine what information users must enter, what defaults appear, and how the system should respond to different actions.
For example, you can require serial numbers, limit quantity overrides, or hide completed lines from view.
4. Inventory Counts Do Not Match What Is in the System
If inventory counts never align with system records, the issue often comes from the counting process itself. Without real-time validation, it is easy to skip items, miscount, or miss entire bins.
WMS Express provides a mobile inventory counting tool that connects directly to the Physical Inventory Journal in Business Central. During a count, employees scan the bin and item, then enter the quantity.
If employees scan an item that isn’t listed in the count for that bin, WMS Express automatically adds it. This ensures the final count includes all items actually found on the shelf, even if they weren’t originally expected.
5. The Setup Process Seems Too Complicated
Many warehouse managers hesitate to deploy barcode scanning because they assume it requires a complex setup or integration project. WMS Express makes the process straightforward.
After installing WMS Express from AppSource, Business Central generates a set of barcodes for device setup. You scan the configuration barcode to apply settings, the login barcode to connect to Business Central, and the user barcode to sign in, which enables you to set up each handheld device in minutes without needing custom code or external tools.
Start Using Barcode Scanning Without Extra Licensing
WMS Express works natively with Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central. You can choose from three versions — Standard, Basic Warehouse, or Warehouse — based on how you set up your Business Central environment.
WMS Express supports a wide range of Android devices, including models from Zebra, Honeywell, and Datalogic. You also have the option to test it on a mobile phone using the built-in camera.
Whether you manage a complex warehouse or a small stockroom, WMS Express helps you improve efficiency, increase accuracy, and reduce manual work. There are no license fees or hidden costs, making it a risk-free way to modernize your warehouse operations.
Ready to bring barcode scanning to your warehouse? For more information, visit WMSExpress.com or reach out to your Microsoft Partner today.
Sources
- Microsoft Learn: Manage warehouse activities using Dynamics 365 Business Central.
- Microsoft Learn: Design details of warehouse management features in Dynamics 365 Business Central.
- Zebra.com: Elevating Every Move – Warehouse Vision Study on scanning and mobile tech in modern fulfillment environments.
- Yahoo Finance: Report on projected growth of the global barcode scanner market through 2032.