WM9F3-15 Storage and Warehousing Techniques
Introductory description
A well-managed warehouse is recognised as a potential major source of competitive advantage as opposed to just another source of cost within the supply chain. To achieve this competitive advantage, it is important to choose the optimal location, appropriate type of operation, processes, equipment and technology, and then understand and continuously
improve performance through appropriate measures and controls. Staff motivation and safety are also important aspects within today’s warehouse.
Module aims
This module will provide a thorough insight into warehouse location, operations, processes, equipment, technology and methods to continuously improve performance through appropriate measures and controls.
All of these areas incorporate real-life examples, industrial awareness, class exercises and case studies to provide an understanding of the role of the warehouse in today’s supply chain and its internal and external relationships and impact.
Outline syllabus
This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.
- The role of the warehouse in today’s supply chain.
- Types of warehouse operation and warehouse processes.
- Warehouse IT, automation and technology.
- Warehouse location, layout and equipment.
- Warehouse costs and performance measures.
- Health and safety and environmental issues.
- Resource planning and labour management.
- The future of warehousing.
- Industrial awareness.
Learning outcomes
By the end of the module, students should be able to:
- Evaluate warehouse operational processes and roles for an informed judgement on warehouse functions across supply chains.
- Select appropriate techniques to improve warehouse processes and operations, proposing sound recommendations and critiques about how technology, equipment and automation can be applied.
- Propose and analyse the criteria required to decide on the most appropriate location for a warehouse within a supply chain and distribution network.
- Determine how to resource a warehouse, including an informed analysis of the layout, space, resource and equipment.
Indicative reading list
Richards G, Warehouse management : the definitive guide to improving efficiency and minimizing costs in the modern warehouse Publication London, England : Kogan Page, [2025] Fifth edition. ISBN 9781398618718 (electronic bk.) / 1398618713 (electronic bk.)
Richards G; Susan Grinsted: The logistics and supply chain toolkit: over 100 tools for transport, warehousing and inventory management Kogan Page, 2020, London, United Kingdom ; New York, NY Third edition ISBN 1789660866, 9781789660869
Heinrich, M; Warehousing and Transportation Logistics, Kogan Page London 2018 ISBN 9780749482206
View reading list on Talis Aspire
International
The module includes discussions and information on international warehousing, distribution and storage operations, decision making, processes and case studies. This can be expanded and applied to increase international elements of the module.
Subject specific skills
Understanding of the Storage and Warehousing subject.
Industrial awareness.
Awareness of key practice and principles.
Understanding of industry structure and future challenges.
Understand the warehouse as an integrated element of the supply chain.
Technological application for improved efficiency.
Resourcing of warehouse operations.
Warehouse design and operational layout elements.
IT and integrated technology for warehouse operations.
Warehouse location analysis.
Team working skills.
Transferable skills
Communication.
Dependability.
Teamwork.
Organisation and planning.
Adaptability.
Technology and information literacy.
Collaboration and problem solving.
Analytical and critical thinking.
Communication.
Decision making.
Sustainability.
Professionalism.
Organisational and industry awareness.
Study time
| Type | Required |
|---|---|
| Lectures | 12 sessions of 1 hour (8%) |
| Seminars | 18 sessions of 1 hour (12%) |
| Online learning (independent) | 15 sessions of 1 hour (10%) |
| Private study | 45 hours (30%) |
| Assessment | 60 hours (40%) |
| Total | 150 hours |
Private study description
Online learning and private study may include elements of reading, following asynchronous lectures, reflection and completing short activities.
Costs
No further costs have been identified for this module.
You must pass all assessment components to pass the module.
Assessment group A2
| Weighting | Study time | Eligible for self-certification | |
|---|---|---|---|
Assessment component |
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| Written report. | 80% | 48 hours | Yes (extension) |
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The assessment will require students to write a report addressing the specified Learning Outcomes. |
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Reassessment component |
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| Written report. | Yes (extension) | ||
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The reassessment will require students to write a report for a new question(s) addressing the specified Learning Outcomes. |
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Assessment component |
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| Group work. | 20% | 12 hours | No |
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The in module assessment will focus on the performance of students during in-class group |
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Reassessment component |
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| Individual work. | Yes (extension) | ||
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The reassessment will focus on the demonstration of suitable application of the relevant learning outcomes and can be submitted remotely. |
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Feedback on assessment
Oral feedback will be provided after the in module presentation, which will be focussed upon the learning outcomes.
Written feedback will be provided for the written essay/report. This feedback will be focussed upon the strengths and weaknesses of the work with regard to appropriate module learning outcomes and the written assignment marking guidelines. Suggestions for improvement will also be provided as appropriate.
Courses
This module is Core for:
- MSc in Supply Chain and Logistics Management