Modernizing Distribution Center Operations

Executive Summary

A leading religious resource retailer recognized the need to modernize its distribution center’s wireless infrastructure. To handle this task, it turned to its trusted technology partner, Advizex. Through careful planning and expert implementation, Advizex completely overhauled the network. The transformation provided the client with the fast and capable wireless connectivity it wanted while meeting deadlines and budget constraints. 

Client Profile

This nonprofit publishing organization provides religious retail resources worldwide, reaching over 160 countries. It operates a sophisticated distribution network that employs thousands of people. Keeping the facility running effectively requires reliable, high-performance technology infrastructure.

The Challenge

The client had been an Advizex customer for a long time, primarily for data storage solutions. When it decided to upgrade its wireless infrastructure, it leaned on that relationship and chose Advizex for that task as well. 

The warehouse’s network components consisted of Cisco 2800 Access Points and Catalyst 3850 switches. Both were approaching end-of-life status. The company needed to modernize its equipment if security and performance were to be maintained. In addition to future-proofing the system, it wanted to solve a few problems with the aging equipment. These included:

• Unreliable wireless coverage affecting handheld scanner functionality
• Disrupted inventory tracking and order fulfillment processes
• Complex roaming requirements in a non-traditional warehouse environment
• Potential impact on shipping efficiency and customer satisfaction

Without reliable wireless service, the warehouse was operating inefficiently. The situation required immediate attention. The solution needed to address the unique challenges of a warehouse environment while staying within strict budgetary and timeline requirements.

The Solution

Advizex benefited from proactive relationship management with the client. This new technological hurdle presented a perfect opportunity for the two companies to expand their partnership beyond storage solutions. Leveraging previous success working with the client, the Advizex team developed a comprehensive solution to its wireless woes. The solution included:

• A complete wireless survey conducted by our technical experts
• Implementation of new Cisco C9136I-B and C9163E Access Points
• Strategic placement of network components for optimal coverage
• Enhanced 6GHz wireless coverage for improved reliability
• Professional installation and configuration services

To complete the project, Advizex assembled a cross-functional team of experts. The team included account management, presales engineering, professional services, wireless specialists, and inside sales support.

Implementation

Competing priorities on the client’s side extended the sales cycle to approximately six months. During that time, Advizex maintained close communication. Once the project was underway, the implementation was carefully orchestrated to minimize disruption to warehouse operations while still providing comprehensive wireless coverage throughout the building. 

Results

The client was happy with the network upgrade, which delivered immediate and significant improvements to its distribution center operations:

• Complete wireless coverage throughout the facility
• Enhanced reliability for handheld scanning devices
• Improved inventory tracking and order fulfillment efficiency
• Support for advanced wireless technologies including 6GHz coverage
• Meeting critical budget deadlines and requirements

Success Factors

Several key factors contributed to the project's success:

1. Established Trust: Years of reliable managed services provision in data storage built trust with the client.
2. Technical Expertise: The Advizex team has a comprehensive understanding of both traditional and warehouse-specific networking requirements.
3. Relationship-Based Approach: Regular communication and proactive engagement identified and addressed needs before they became more serious issues.
4. Professional Implementation: Expert team coordination ensured smooth deployment with minimal operational disruption.

The success of this upgrade at the client’s distribution center demonstrates how well Advizex can leverage existing relationships to bring more value to clients. It shows that the Advizex team possesses the technical expertise to deliver complex solutions that drive value to clients. In the end, the client had a solution that solved its immediate needs and positioned it for future growth. 

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