Warehouse management system

A warehouse management system (WMS) is a set of policies and processes intended to organise the work of a warehouse or distribution centre, and ensure that such a facility can operate efficiently and meet its objectives. The core function of a warehouse management system is to record the arrival and departure of inventory. Software which fulfils this function can offer features like recording the precise location of stock within the warehouse, optimising the use of available space, or coordinating tasks for maximum efficiency.

In the 20th century, the term 'warehouse management information system' was often used to distinguish software that fulfils this function from theoretical systems. Some smaller facilities may use spreadsheets or physical media like pen and paper to document their processes and activities, and this too can be considered a WMS. However, in contemporary usage, the term overwhelmingly refers to computer systems.