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The company initially operated with Dynamics 365 (D365) for Finance and integrated with a third-party warehousing platform. This setup required data synchronization between systems and resulted in frequent inventory and order discrepancies. To address these challenges and improve real-time inventory visibility, they decided to transition to D365’s native Advanced Warehousing Management (AWM) functionality.
The existing product and inventory design were not compatible with the use of AWM functionality. Data synchronization limitations in the original system required negative inventory within D365 to accommodate integration timing and inventory discrepancies.
The organization operates three warehouses with different picking processes, including voice picking and conveyor‑based workflows. Additional challenges included managing dynamic shipment planning, ensuring real‑time inventory accuracy, and eliminating the reliance on negative inventory practices. Given the time‑sensitive nature of the business, accurate expiration date tracking was also critical.
Using out of the box and by developing custom utilities, all products and inventory were bulk converted to leverage the full potential of D365 AWM. Negative inventory was no longer permitted since warehousing functions no longer were reliant on third party services and integrations. This kept inventory more accurate and eliminated technical troubleshooting between two systems.
D365’s material handling equipment interface (MHAX) was utilized to develop a framework for voice picking capability. Transport load functionality within the system was extended to create flexibility in planning and preparation of loads to be shipped to customer locations.
Two of three warehouses have successfully completed go live, and the migration to D365 AWM has streamlined IT operations by providing a unified platform for warehouse management.
Successful conversion of products and inventory along with support of voice picking has resulted in a seamless transition for end-users with minimal impact on their daily workflows.
The organization has experienced improved system reliability and inventory accuracy, which have enhanced operational efficiency. The third warehouse is scheduled for future rollout, with expectations of similar positive outcomes.
With the third warehouse go‐live on the horizon, the organization is close to completing its full transition to D365 AWM. The strong momentum from the first two deployments sets clear expectations for another successful rollout, and we look forward to sharing the next chapter of this success story soon.