By Shakir Sufian, senior architect and logistics lead UK at Hyphen
Changes to layout, access and the use of space can improve a warehouse’s capacity and performance. Architectural advice helps assess what the building can accommodate and which compliance issues need addressing before committing to expansion or redevelopment.
A warehouse’s ability to support a business depends partly on how its space is arranged and used. Inefficient layouts can restrict productivity, even where there is potential to accommodate more within the existing building.
We have seen businesses consider an extension, then discover that reconfiguring their existing space could improve operational performance without enlarging the building.
Distinguishing a space shortage from a layout problem
At Hyphen, our architectural advice draws on an assessment of compliance, how people, vehicles and goods move around the site, and what the facility needs to achieve.
Improving routes, enlarging key access points and making it easier to find the way around the site can reduce bottlenecks, improve safety and help daily operations run more efficiently.
Unused vertical space may also offer opportunities for storage, training or other business functions.
Matching the changes to the business requirement
In one project, a client needed improved workshop training facilities. Training took place elsewhere in the building and had become disconnected from daily operations, while other areas were underused. Substantial redevelopment initially appeared necessary.
Closer assessment identified an opportunity to adapt existing space and bring training activities nearer to the workshop. The resulting facility was larger and better connected to the operation. It increased training capacity, shortened staff training cycles and could support several sites, with less extensive work than first anticipated.
Checking the implications before making changes
Warehouses can change quickly as operational requirements evolve. Changes made at short notice may have consequences for compliance and the wider operation that are not fully understood.
We have seen alterations require costly corrective work after compliance problems emerged. Hyphen’s code compliance audits identify potential issues early. Applying technical know-how at this stage can help clients avoid unnecessary cost and disruption.
Early investigation gives businesses more opportunity to compare approaches and can help avoid additional costs later in the project.
Shakir explored this subject in Logistics Matters following his presentation at Tomorrow’s Warehouse Manchester. Read the original article here: Unlocking more value from existing warehouse assets
